When melodious vocals, rhythmic drum beats and the strains of the sitar come together, the Bharatanatyam is brought to life in all its glory.
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance that originates from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, dating back some 2,500 years.
The term Bharatanatyam is derived from two sanskrit words – ’Natyam’ meaning dance and ’Bharata’ which is a mnemonic containing ’bha’ (bhava/emotions), ‘ra’ (raga/melody), and ‘ta’ (tala/rhythm).
Conventionally a solo dance performed only by women, it blends hand gestures known as mudras, leg movement, footwork and the facial expressions of the dancer to weave a tale that incorporates Hindu religious themes and spiritual ideas.
Dancers are typically garbed in elaborate and colourful traditional sarees, with ornate jewellery draped from their head, nose and ears. These elements, together with the stylised form of makeup they wear accentuate their facial expressions.
The fingers and toes are brightened with red henna to emphasise hand gestures and leather straps while ghunghru or anklet bells are worn so the audience can hear and see the dancer’s intricate foot movement.
The dance is often accompanied by an orchestra, composed of a sitar, drums and a vocalist.
For Shangeshwari Irlandy, Bharatanatyam is a physical expression centred on displaying divinity and spirituality through the body.
“It’s not just a dance form,” she told FMT.
Shangeshwari has been a classical dancer for 20 years, having first started at the age of four. The 24-year-old has performed on numerous occasions at temples, state shows, weddings and dance competitions.
“I believe that Bharatanatyam has made me happier throughout my life,” she said. “It makes me understand who I am, what my capabilities are and will always remain with me.”
She said her ambition is to become a Bharatanatyam teacher and cites her own teacher, Meera Devarajoo, who she describes as a visionary and stunning performer and choreographer, as her inspiration.
Sangeshwari expressed hope that Bharatanatyam will continue to be practised in Malaysia and that the dance form will be taught to generations to come.
“I hope Bharatanatyam will not stop here,” she said.