Bharatanatyam in Georgia

Bharatanatyam dancer Apeksha Niranjan was the only Indian performer at the Movement, Physical and Dance Theatre International Festival in Georgia earlier this month. Her recital, ‘Anubhava – The Experience’, wove together a rich tapestry of Indian culture, the depth of human emotions, and the grace of classical movements.

Through expressive gestures, intricate footwork and a blend of classical music with soul-stirring Gregorian chants, she offered an experience that resonated deeply with not just the audience but also her fellow dancers from all over the world.

Her 60-minute performance was a unique fusion of traditional Bharatanatyam with innovative storytelling and musical blends. Niranjan’s repertoire included ‘Bhagirathi Bhavadveshini: Experiencing Indian Mythology’, ‘Nottuswara: Experiencing the Blend of Two Musics’, ‘Syrenka: The Mermaid of Warsaw’, ‘Love Reunited: Experiencing Emotions’, ‘Tillana: Experiencing the Rhythm’ and ‘Gregorian Chants: Experiencing Two Cultures.

Even though she regularly performs before foreign audiences, this was her first visit to Georgia, where she had been invited by the Arts Research Institute. As she waited in the wings, she wondered if the foreign audiences would identify with her performance. “I was worried about the understanding of the concept, hand gestures. I felt they may especially not understand the mythological concepts as these belonged to a different culture. But I realised the power of art, which transcends all boundaries,” says Niranjan.

The response was “touching”. “It was overwhelming for me when the audience were in tears after the performance. The fellow dancers were amazed to witness the intricate and rhythmic footwork and the language of the hand gestures, which was a new experience for them,” she recalls, adding that all cultures preserve the values of love, sympathy and truthfulness.

Up next, she will be presenting her recitals in India, USA and Poland.