A Mother’s Dream and the Journey of Bharatanatyam

My introduction to Bharatanatyam comes from my mother’s – Mrs. Jayalakshmi strong determination. Although she never learned this art form herself, she held a deep admiration for it and envisioned one of her daughters becoming a Bharatanatyam dancer. As her second daughter, I was chosen to fulfill this dream.

Growing up in Chennai, particularly in the culturally rich neighborhood of Mylapore, offered my mother the perfect setting to nurture her artistic aspirations. Mylapore, often referred to as the hub of Brahminical traditions, is home to iconic institutions such as the Kapaleeswarar Temple, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, and the renowned Rasika Ranjani Sabha (RR Sabha). The area was alive with kutcheris and dance performances, and my mother was a regular visitor, enthralled by the artistry displayed by dancers from prestigious schools.

Of all the performances she attended, my mother was deeply inspired by the disciples of Ms. Uma Dandayuthapani Pillai, daughter of the legendary Padmashri K.N. Dandayuthapani Pillai. She decided that I would learn Bharatanatyam with Ms. Uma, and she was determined to make it happen, no matter what.

My mother was a dedicated homemaker, tirelessly caring for our family. Despite coming from a modest, middle-class background, she never let financial concerns deter her. She dreamed big and was supported by my father, who wholeheartedly stood by her vision. Together, they ensured that each of their daughters learned a classical art form: my elder sister was trained in the Veena, I was immersed in Bharatanatyam, and my younger sister was introduced to Carnatic vocal music.

Dance, often considered a “rich man’s art,” came with its own financial demands. Yet, my mother remained steadfast in her mission. For her, it wasn’t about the cost, it was about ensuring that I had the best teacher and the finest training. That single-minded focus shaped my journey into Bharatanatyam.

Today, as I teach Bharatanatyam to my daughters and my students, I owe it all to her vision, her determination, and her blessings. My passion for this divine art form and my commitment to sharing it with others are direct reflections of her influence.

This blog is a heartfelt dedication to my mother and my father. Their constant support and sacrifices have made me who I am today.