Geeta Chandran is a true icon of Bharatanatyam, celebrating fifty years of remarkable contributions to this classical dance. At a recent festival in New Delhi, her legacy shone brightly, showcasing her innovative spirit and deep passion for the art, says SAKSHI PRIYA

In the world of Indian classical dance, few names resonate with the passion and innovation of Geeta Chandran. As she marks her 50th year of performing Bharatanatyam, her influence goes beyond the mastery of movement, it’s a legacy of reimagining and rejuvenating an ancient art form for the contemporary stage. Celebrated with a two-day festival at New Delhi’s Kamani Auditorium, Chandran’s golden jubilee was a journey that began with her Arangetram at age 12 and has flourished through decades of performance, teaching and cultural advocacy. Organised by Natya Vriksha, her beloved dance institution, the event became a dynamic expression of Bharatanatyam’s enduring power, where tradition met innovation and art met life.

Day One: Pravahati – The Forward Force

The first day’s performance, titled Pravahati, was both meditative and exhilarating. Having seen Geeta Chandran perform numerous times, Pravahati offered something deeply personal and expansive - it was as though the dance itself became a vessel of her mastery and message. The programme began with an evocative Mallari in praise of Shiva, drawing the audience into a space of contemplation as Chandran and her collective invoked the deity through precise footwork, graceful arms and powerful expressions. The performance felt timeless, a moment where past and present intertwined.

The journey continued with Varsha Ritu, where Chandran brought to life Kalidasa’s monsoon verses from Ritusamhara.It was a celebration of Bharatanatyam’s storytelling power, capturing both the gentleness and force of nature. Watching her, it was as though each movement held a mirror to nature’s dance, immersing us fully in its changing rhythms.

Then came Vahati, a piece that celebrated tradition as a dynamic, flowing stream, one that carries the past forward while moving into the future. Chandran’s steps seemed to reimagine Bharatanatyam, presenting it as a continuously evolving art. This piece struck a powerful chord, a reminder that Bharatanatyam is not static but ever relevant. Finally, the evening closed with an exuberant Tillana, which radiated pure joy and the applause stayed long after she took her bow.

Throughout, Pravahati felt like more than a dance performance. It was a powerful statement on the evolving nature of art and the artist’s role in pushing the boundaries of tradition. Chandran’s words echoed through the performance: “Dance, much like life, should not be limited by tradition; it must evolve and be reinterpreted through the artist's unique perspective.”

Day Two: A Solo Performance by Vidushi Geeta Chandran

The second day offered a more intimate experience with a solo performance by Chandran herself. Accompanied by an ensemble of musicians, Varun Rajasekharan on Nattuvangam, Smt. Sudha Raghuraman on vocals, Manohar Balatchandirane on mridangam, G. Raghavendra Prasath on violin and G. Raghuraman on flute, she brought Bharatanatyam’s most intricate expressions to life. Each musician’s skill beautifully complemented her dance, amplifying the emotion and story she conveyed.

In these solo pieces, Chandran laid bare the depth of her devotion to Bharatanatyam. The abhinaya or expressive storytelling, was stunning, transforming familiar narratives into powerful, moving moments. In one piece, she portrayed a waiting heroine and her portrayal struck a delicate balance between anticipation and longing, vividly capturing the subtle tension between presence and absence. Her gestures and expressions spoke of a deep connection to the emotions within the dance, giving the audience an experience that went beyond mere observation.

After the performance, Chandran spoke about her journey, saying, “As I approach this milestone of completing five decades of dancing since my Arangetram, I pay tribute to my Gurus who shared this invaluable art with me, and also gave me the freedom to question and reinterpret it.” These words reflected her approach to Bharatanatyam: a constant, respectful re-exploration of tradition that brings new life into ancient forms.

Geeta Chandran’s Legacy: More Than Just Dance

Geeta Chandran's impact on Bharatanatyam goes well beyond her dazzling performances.

As the Founder-President of Natya Vriksha, she has created a strong connection between dance and social causes, education, and cultural conversations. Her commitment to nurturing young talent and engaging with diverse communities is evident in her outreach programmes. Chandran’s numerous accolades, such as the Padma Shri and the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award speak volumes about her standing in the classical dance community.

Yet, for those fortunate enough to witness her anniversary celebration, her most significant achievement lies in her ability to breathe life into Bharatanatyam, ensuring it remains not just relevant but profoundly impactful. Her performances are not just  technical showcases; they are deeply immersive experiences that offer insights into the human condition.

As the curtains fell on her 50th-anniversary celebration, the audience erupted in applause, many visibly moved by her lifelong dedication to this art form. This event was not just a milestone; it was a tribute to a life defined by resilience, passion and grace. Geeta Chandran is more than a dancer or teacher; she is a torchbearer, lighting the way forward while remaining deeply connected to the essence of Bharatanatyam. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to explore, honour and expand the possibilities of this beautiful, enduring art.