Bharathanatyam (Classical Indian Dance)

Artists:

VP Dhananjayan (Master Artist)

Anita Ranjani Seth (Apprentice)

Description of the Art Form

Originating in Southern India, Bharathanatyam is a distinctly Hindu classical dance that is preformed as a cultural and religious custom throughout India . Bharathanatyam has been described as a dance where in which religious devotion is acted out through dance and music. Through a set of intricate dance moves that are acted out to music, Bharathanatyam outwardly shows ones devotion through the form of visual dancing that ultimately expresses music through movement. These body movements are used to visually represent emotion and feelings and are an integral part of Hindu culture. These dancers are trained by masters and the dances are used in temple ceremonies and festivals.

VP Dhananjayan

Place of birth: Payyannur, Kerala , India
Place of residence: Chennai, Tamil Nadu , India

Artist Statement

As this apprentice is from the USA , it gives me ample scope in transferring the cultural heritage through dance to a student that has the thirst to learn more about her ethnicity, religion, and language and gives the apprentice an opportunity to carry it with her and impart her knowledge to the next generation.

Accomplishments/milestones

Because of VP Dhananjayan’s hard work and dedication, his expertise in Bharathanatyam is profound. Being one of the leading teachers of Bharathanatyam, Dhananjayan has made a considerable contribution to the preservation and continuation of this custom on a global scale. Over his career, he has been involved with several organizations and has had the opportunity to travel and perform Bharathanatyam all over the world. He has also been involved with various productions, festivals and because of this has earned many different honors and awards.

Joined Kalakshetra: 5th October 1953

Educational Qualification: B.A. Economics

Professional Qualification: Post Graduate Diploma in Dance
(Bharatanatyam & Kathakali) with distinction
from Kalakshetra, Madras . Leading Male dancer
under Smt.Rukminidevi (Founder, Kalakshetra)
from 1955 to 1967

Distinct Awards Earned:

- Sangeet Natak Academy (Presidential Award) 1994
- Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Academy Fellowship 1993
- Kalaimamani Award from Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram, TN Govt. 1990
- Nritya Choodamani Award from Sri Krishna Gana Sabha 1983
- Haridas Sammelan Sursingar Sansad Mumbai "Nrityavillas" Award 1989
- Scroll of Honour Arts and Crafts Magazine, New Delhi awarded by then Vice President Hon. Sri.K.R.Narayanan
- Live Magazine Achievement Award (Ohio State Academy Award) 1997
- Plaque of Honour awarded by the Governor of Ohio State for excellent Community Service and International Understanding through Art 1996
- Munshi Centenary Commemorative Award, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, London UK 1988
- UNESCO Paris, Medallion De Merit 1984

Anita Ranjani Seth

Place of residence: Springfield, PA

Artist Statement

I am Hindu and learn much about my religion and ethnicity through dance. Living in the USA , dance is a way to connect with culture and heritage. In the past 16 years of learning, I have developed a deep appreciation for my culture and Bharathanatyam was the door that opened and gave me this opportunity. I want to offer the same opportunity for other young would be dancers. Having grown up here, I am in a position to share my knowledge with children now growing up here. I feel I can relate to aspiring dancers better and consider this my contribution to my community.

Accomplishments/milestones

  Among being professionally trained by VP Dhananjayan, Anita Ranjani Seth has been able to use her knowledge of Bharathanatyam for the betterment of her community. Not only has she traveled and participated in over 30 different events and festivals across Pennsylvania and the east coast, she also has raised funds for different organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and UNICEF where in which she used her skills in any way possible. She has also raised money for the Children of Fallen Solider Relief Fund and has received many awards and much recognition for her efforts. She recently received recognition from U.S. representative Joe Sestak of Congressional District #7 for her work in her community. Anita Ranjani Seth is passionate about her heritage and cultural community and has had seized the opportunity to put her knowledge and skills into practice.