The dance is in the detail

Stating that constant riyaaz,new ideas,evolving special themes dance is an ongoing process,Vani says: “Sometimes I find that my energy levels are better than my students. The idea is to constantly innovate,improvise and keep the tradition alive,which heritage festivals are doing. They give artists the confidence that their art will be kept alive.”

Also a teacher,Vani describes herself as a hard taskmaster,one who expects her students to follow all the nuances of Bhartanatyam,and the tradition. “I have only ten students and I can teach them everything,but the emotion of Bhakti has to come from within,that’s something I can’t instill in them,” she says. Her gurus were all males and she recalls how they would be comfortable choreographing Bhakti Ras,but not Shingaar.

For Vani,there is a thin line between sensuality and spirituality,and she feels a dancer should not refrain from depicting what the poet wrote,as long as it is within the parameters. “I am now able to portray this side more comfortably,for the audience is more receptive.” she says. Vani agrees these are better time for dancers,as they don’t need to depend on godfathers to move ahead,with technology helping them network better. According to her,the new-age gurus know the intricate details of not just the art,but also the craft. “As a performer,you know how to approach the stage,take lights,the space to cover and also how to face an audience.”

Dancers,rues Vani,have a shorter creative life,as compared to musicians,with stamina,experience and looks not going hand-in-hand. “It’s a short span when you have all these together and the idea is to do as much as you can,with your heart and soul.”

Bharatnatyam exponent Vani Ganapathy performed in Chandigarh on Monday. Vikram Joy