Submitted by Keerti Bhatt
The art of Bharatanatyam, a captivating dance form with a rich history, takes center stage as the Vaibhava Dance School presents its upcoming recital, “Rasa Vaibhava 2024,” at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 8 at the John Glenn Middle School in Bedford. Admission to the performance is free and open to the public.
This year’s theme is called “Endearing Traditions of Bharatanatayam” and it promises a mesmerizing journey into the very essence of its dance form.
For those unfamiliar, Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form and is broadly characterized by its expressive hand gestures (mudras), intricate footwork, and captivating storytelling. Bharatanatyam is a treasure trove of cultural heritage.
“Vaibhava” is a Bedford-based Bharatanatyam (Indian Classical) Dance School and is headed by its artistic director, Deepa Srinath Bungale. The school has trained more than 50 students during the last decade. The school has graduated students with solo performances, each of them training for more than a decade.
In each of the last 13 years, the Vaibhava Dance School has presented different thematic performances on Hindu Mythology.
For the first time, the students of the school are excited to present this performance here in Bedford. This year’s performance on the endearing traditions of Bharatanatyam is based on the Tamil God, Murugan.
Lord Murugan is a Hindu deity revered for his wisdom, bravery, and victory over evil, often depicted riding a peacock and wielding a divine spear.
Rasa Vaibhava has always been an event that culminates the year-long learnings of the students into a performance. To showcase the growth, progression, dedication, and hard work, there is a special segment in the performance where students of different levels perform the rhythmic patterns from simple to complex and intricate footwork. This segment is where the percussionist who plays mridangam (Indian drums) and the Nattuvavanar (conductor) perform and create live music to which the students dance. It’s a beautiful interaction between the dancer, percussionist, and the conductor. This progression takes years of nurturing, guidance, and hard work from their Guru (teacher).
Deepa Bungale recognizes that every student learns and progresses differently. She tailors her teaching methods to cater to individual strengths and growth areas. This personalized approach ensures students receive the guidance they need to refine their skills and develop their own unique artistic voice within the framework of Bharatanatyam.
The Vaibhava Dance School isn’t just about upholding Bharatanatyam’s endearing traditions; it’s about creating a nurturing space where those traditions blossom for each student. Hear and see how they achieve this remarkable balance.
For more information about the school, please visit: www.facebook.com/vaibhavadanceschool.
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