Is an Arangetram Absolutely Necessary for a Bharatanatyam Dancer?

An Arangetram, a debut performance for a Bharatanatyam dancer, is traditionally considered an important milestone in the dancer's journey. While it is not absolutely necessary, it holds significant cultural and artistic value for several reasons.

Recognition

The Arangetram serves as a formal acknowledgment of the dancer's training and readiness to perform publicly. It marks the official transition from student to performer, and it is an important step in validating the dancer's hard work and dedication.

Cultural Tradition

In the Bharatanatyam community, the Arangetram is a rite of passage that connects dancers to their cultural heritage. It is often seen as a way to honor the art form and its traditions, while also providing a sense of community and belonging.

Performance Experience

The event provides valuable experience in performing in front of an audience, which is essential for any dancer's development. Each performance on stage helps the dancer refine their technique, understand the nuances of the art form, and build a repertoire of skills.

Community Support

An Arangetram often draws family, friends, and the local community, fostering support for both the dancer and the art form. This can be a great source of encouragement and validation, as well as an opportunity for the community to witness the art form and its significance.

Networking Opportunities

Performing in an Arangetram can help dancers connect with other artists, teachers, and audiences. These connections can facilitate future opportunities in their dance careers, such as collaborations, teaching, and performances at various events.

Personal Experience

Based on my personal experience, I would say that an Arangetram is absolutely necessary. I used to be a below average dancer, having been learning dance for 11 years. All of a sudden, my Arangetram was decided, and I had four months of preparatory time. In the process of preparing for my Arangetram, I improved drastically—both in basic adavus and in expressing bhavam. It was an exhausting yet beautiful process, as I learned so much in those four months than I had in 11 years.

The point is not to perform an Arangetram for the purpose of getting a certificate but to experience the process of learning dance in a much more advanced and beautiful way. The journey itself is enriching, and the Arangetram marks the beginning of a new phase in one's dance journey.

Conclusion

While some dancers may choose to forgo an Arangetram for personal or practical reasons, many find it to be a rewarding and significant event in their artistic journey. Ultimately, the decision to perform an Arangetram depends on individual goals and circumstances. Whether you choose to perform an Arangetram or not, the key is to fully embrace the process and understand that it is the start of a lifelong journey in Bharatanatyam.