Classical dance, an art form that transcends time and culture, stands as a testament to the depth and richness of human expression. Rooted in the traditions and heritage of various regions, classical dance encompasses a diverse range of styles and techniques, each with its own distinctive history and storytelling.
Supported by Arts Council England, Sujata Banerjee Dance Company (SBDC) presents Hemantika, the annual festival of classical Indian dance. Asian Voice spoke to SBDC director and choreographer Sujata Banerjee about Hemantika and celebrating the identity, heritage and joy of South Asian art.
Enriched and enlightened perspective on the world of dance
She says,”Hemantika had its humble beginnings in 2016, and this year marks its eighth edition. The festival is a celebration of the enchanting Hemant Ritu, a season that graces us with its beauty during the months of November and December. This year's theme is "eight". The horizontal number eight symbolises infinite possibilities, and we've drawn inspiration from various mythological and textual elements related to the number eight. From the enchanting Ashta Nayika to the intricate Drishti Bheda, exploring eight distinct ways of conveying a glance, and from the sacred Ashtavinayak to the divine Ashta Lakshmi, there's a wealth of rich and diverse topics associated with the number eight.”
“To paint this larger canvas, we introduce our attendees to the vast world of dance. Hemantika isn't just about isolated lessons; it's about comprehending the magnificent tapestry of dance. We achieve this by inviting international artists and showcasing our very own accomplished professionals on a shared platform. Through this, we provide our attendees with a comprehensive experience, one that exposes them to the full spectrum of the dance world, enabling them to grasp the profound depth and breadth of this magnificent art form. Hemantika ensures that the festival-goers leave with an enriched and enlightened perspective on the world of dance.”, she added.
Our aim is to celebrate heritage while embracing the dynamism of innovation
She emphasised, “A primary focus for us is to provide a wide-ranging exposure, with particular emphasis on engaging the younger generations, many of whom are the third or fourth generation. It's crucial for them to connect with their cultural heritage, to feel a sense of pride in their roots. Simultaneously, we are committed to fostering contemporary and innovative dance forms that may not adhere strictly to classical traditions. Our aim is to celebrate heritage while embracing the dynamism of innovation. This duality in our approach reflects our core values.”
Talking about the unique performance this year, she said, “One of this year's most distinctive highlights is our presentation of Gaudiya Nritya, a classical dance style hailing from the vibrant culture of Bengal. This dance form is exceptionally rare, not just in India but also on the global stage, let alone in the UK. Gaudiya Nritya's uniqueness lies in its relatively recent reconstruction over the past three decades. At the forefront of this revival, we are honoured to host Priyanka Rachel, an esteemed practitioner and exponent of Gaudiya Nritya, residing in Bangladesh and teaching at Dhaka University.”
Despite challenges, women are at the forefront of the dance world
She said, “Women are undeniably at the forefront of the dance world. While there are certainly male gurus and dancers, the vast majority of practitioners worldwide are women. This holds true even in the day-to-day education and grassroots awareness efforts for dance forms like Kathak, which is celebrated globally.”
“In our own school, a striking example of this gender balance is evident. Among our 10 professionals, only one is male. This vividly illustrates the prominent role that women play in the world of dance. Despite the unique physical challenges that women may face at different stages of life, their unwavering dedication and commitment have propelled them to the forefront of the dance community. In the realm of dance, women have truly demonstrated their excellence and leadership, “she added.
Dance is a powerful vehicle for enhancing both personal and interpersonal skills
She said, “I firmly believe that dance, beyond its artistic and physical attributes, bestows upon individuals a unique set of life skills that make them sharper and more intelligent. As a dancer, one develops an exceptional 360-degree awareness of their surroundings and an acute sense of periphery.”
“These transferable skills extend far beyond the dance floor. Dance equips individuals with the ability to engage in meaningful conversations, exuding confidence and a commanding presence. In essence, dance is a powerful vehicle for enhancing both personal and interpersonal skills, offering a holistic and enriching experience that extends to every aspect of life, “ she added.