Dr. Kishor Kumar Tripathy, the Member Secretary of AuroBharati, Sri Aurobindo Society in Puducherry, was honored to be the Chief Guest at the Bharathanatya Arangetram hosted by Sangeetha Salangai Natyalaya, which is affiliated with Tamil University in Tanjavur, Tamil Nadu, on May 10, 2025.

During this special event, Guru Kalaimamani Dr. K. Rajamanickam, the founder of Sangeetha Salangai Natyalaya, spoke about the various initiatives the institution has undertaken to promote India’s rich performing arts tradition. The occasion was further graced by the presence of Mr. Rehan, the Chairman of Sangeetha Salangai Natyalaya, Mrs. R. Rajeswari, a Trustee, and Dr. Gopal Jayraman, the former Regional Director of IGNCA in Puducherry.

The event celebrated the students who had completed their formal training in Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance, by awarding them certificates, followed by a Bharatanatyam Arangetram performance. This event marks a significant milestone, indicating the dancers’ readiness to perform publicly as trained artists and to potentially teach this beautiful art form. The program was thoughtfully organized and coordinated by Guru Kalaimamani Dr. K. Rajamanickam.

During his address, Dr. Tripathy highlighted the profound significance of Indian dance through the perspectives of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. He underscored the integral elements of Bharatnatyam, a dance form rich in tradition and cultural heritage, which captures the essence of India’s artistic expression and spiritual devotion. He pointed out that this ancient dance style, which originated in the temples of South India, is distinguished by its intricate footwork, precise hand gestures known as mudras, and emotive facial expressions that convey a diverse array of emotions and stories.

Dr. Tripathy commended the students for their rigorous training in mastering complex rhythmic patterns, graceful movements, and expressive abhinaya, the art of storytelling through gestures and facial expressions. He stressed the vital relationship between the guru (teacher) and shishya (student) in the preservation and transmission of this sacred art form, with knowledge and techniques being handed down through generations of dedicated practitioners.

In discussing the creative arts and their sustainability in the modern world, Dr. Tripathy emphasized the greatness of Indian dance traditions and their global recognition, as dancers and teachers share their beauty and wisdom across continents. The development and capacity building of Bharatnatyam artists not only ensure the survival and growth of this invaluable cultural heritage but also promote a deeper understanding and respect for Indian culture on the world stage.

Dr. Tripathy spoke on the timeless grace, spiritual depth, and artistic creativity of Bharatnatyam, which stands as a shining example of India’s immense contribution to the world of dance and a testament to the enduring power of tradition in shaping human expression and connection. He also acknowledged Auroville’s role as a significant center for promoting culture and sustainability in today’s context.