Bharatanatyam Is My Life: Yashaswini
Yashaswini had a keen interest in Bharatanatyam from an early age. After years of practicing in the stream, she eventually performed on local, national, and international stages. Some of her highlights events are Hampi Utsavam, Shravana Belagola, Mastti Prathistana, Iskcon Festival, and a few more. She has also performed internationally in Dubai, Bahrain, Kuwait, Singapore, and Kenya. With a showcase of accolades such as Karnataka State Award, Priya Darshini Award, and Nandi Award; she now conducts her own classes at Geetha Gayatri Natya Kala Academy.
One of her recent highlights was when she performed live in front of PM Narendra Modi, LK Advani and other ministerial delegates in Delhi.
To know more about her, I asked her a few questions and here is what she had to say.
What was the key driver behind your decision to pursue Bhartanatyam?
It was in my own interest that I decided to take up and learn Bharatanataym. During my childhood, I would watch dance shows on TV and try to do the same. Seeing my interest, my parents had me join Bharatanatyam at age 4. That is how it all began. I guess, in a way, I am my own key driver to pursue Bharatanatyam.
Who has been your mentor in dance and inspiration in life?
Dr.Padhma Subramanya has been my greatest inspiration. My mentor is Vidwan Kolar Ramesh.
How was your experience while performing live in front of PM Narendra Modi?
Performing live in front of Narendra Modi, L K Adwani, and other ministers have been a great experience. I was spellbound and the event left me wondering if I really had performed in front of the Prime Minister. I also got to stand next to him for a group picture. After the group picture, he blessed me saying “Beta thumara performance bahut acha tha.” It was a great feeling altogether.
Please share any other experiences centered around the dance form close to your heart.
Another dance form which is very much close to my heart is Kathak. But I haven’t performed anything yet because I just started learning it recently. I can say that Kathak is completely different. It is somewhat like a freestyle genre and is very stylish. At the foremost, the costumes are very simple and elegant. I now eagerly wait to perform Kathak.
What has dance taught you?
As a classical dancer, I can proudly say that dance has thought me everything because, even if everyone leaves me, my dance will stay with me. Even after my death, the art of dance will be passed on to my students and they in turn will teach the form. It mainly thought me to be disciplined and dedicated to work. A lot of concentration is required to learn dance. I feel that this is the best traditional dance based on Indian goddesses and gods. I believe that this form of dance won’t hurt the feelings of anyone. One more important thing I would like to point out in Bharatanatyam is it’s aspects – nirta, nirthya, abhinaya. Abhinaya is the most challenging task for a Bharatanatyam artist. Because their message can be conveyed only through their facial expressions, which is a bit difficult while dancing.
What is BharataNatyam for you in one word?
Bharatanatyam is my life.
Note: This is an article by Priety S from Campazine, currently featured on Simple Insights.
