MILESTONES - BHARATANATYAM ARANGETRAM

For my first article on the blog I wanted to elaborate on one of the most significant milestones in a Bharatanatyam dancer's journey, an Arangetram. It is a momentous performance that every young dancer dreams of and is the coming together of arduous training, consistent dedication and perfected technique. 

What is an Arangetram? 

The word Arangetram literally translates to “ascending the stage” and is a dancer’s first solo recital. It heralds the culmination of years of rigorous training and embodies the quintessence of cultural heritage and artistic finesse. 

A dancer will perform numerous pieces of Bharatanatyam repertoire ranging from Alarippus to Tillanas to Padams, Varnams and Kautaums. 

It is typically attended by a dancer's family, friends and teachers, however the scale at which it takes place is decided at the discretion of the dancer. 

When can one perform an Arangetram?

A teacher will usually decide when a student has accomplished a high enough level of technical prowess to perform an Arangetram. A student is required to know an entire set of bharatanatyam repertoire, have good technique and sufficient stamina to perform an entire solo show.

What is the Ghungroo puja?

The Ghungroo puja is a ritual that involves sanctifying a dancer's ghungroos (bells worn around the ankles) in a sacred and religious ceremony held in a temple. It takes place before an Arangetram and is led by the students guru (teacher) and will include the students immediate family as well. The guru will bless the ghungroos and fasten them around the students' ankles. This showcases the guru's approval of the students' ascent onto stage.