In a spellbinding showcase of BharatNatyam dance, the stage at Natsamrat Nilu Phule Theater in Sangvi, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, came alive with the enchanting Arangetram program on Saturday, November 18, 2023. The three-hour performance featured thirteen-year-old talents Kumari Chinmayi Deshmukh, Kumari Sharwari Muluk, and Kumari Avni Kulkarni, disciples of Guru Mausam Mehta, Director of the Blossom Dance Academy in Wakad.
Arangetram, in the realm of dance, signifies taking the first dedicated step onto the stage after almost eight years of tireless hard work. These young dancers captivated the audience, holding them spellbound throughout the performance. Having commenced their Bharatanatyam training at the tender age of four or five, the girls displayed a level of proficiency that belied their age.
The program unfolded with a Shiva-Vandana, a ‘Pushpanjali’ dance form, paying emotional tributes to the artists on stage and the audience. The synergy of Mridang, Ghatam, Violin, Flute, Taal, and Guru Shri Shiv Prasad’s Raagdari singing, combined with the girls’ performance, created a captivating spectacle.
The repertoire included precise Padanyaas, Bhrukuti Vibhram, Nayan Vilobhan, Hasta and Karagra Laghav, complemented by extravagant costumes tailored to each dance form, intricate makeup, and an impressive light and sound scheme. The coordination and awareness displayed by all three dancers made it hard to believe they were amateurs.
Key highlights of the performance included Jaati Swaram (Raga Kalyani, Taal Rupak), Shiva Prathanna (Raag Revati, Taal Aadi), and Muthu Swami Dixit composed Dashavatar (Raag & Taal Revati), each leaving a lasting impression. The storytelling through dance conveyed the compassion of Shri Krishna Leela, Saint Narsi Mehta and Saint Mirabai, the Ram-Ravan war, Shiv Tandav, Sheshashayi Vishnu Shayan, and Asur Vadh.
As each act unfolded, the girls elevated their performance, showcasing a level of professionalism beyond their years. The camaraderie between these thirteen-year-olds mirrored that of seasoned professionals.
Distinguished dancer Shama Bhate, known for Kathak, inaugurated the program, and Anjali Bagal from ‘Moksha Nritya Prashala’ bestowed blessings. Chief guests included Arjuna Award-winning shooter Anjali Bhagwat, Blue Ridge School Principal Surinder Sayan, and former corporator Aarti Chondhe.
Shama Bhate praised the girls, highlighting their hard work and their Guru Mausam Mehta’s guidance. Anjali Bhagwat emphasized the significance of the guru-disciple tradition and commended Guru Mausam Mehta for cultivating such talented disciples.
The event concluded with heartfelt expressions from the girls, showcasing their gratitude, hard work, respect for their Guru, and commitment to family. The program’s success was attributed to the dedication of Guru Mausam Mehta and the support of Guru Shiv-Prasad and his team, who have contributed to countless dance programs nationally and internationally.
