Digitalization has paved the way for more access and appreciation for Indian classical dance forms
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An article by DR. SWATHY NARAYANAN, Globally Accomplished Kuchipudi Dancer
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IN THIS EXCLUSIVE ARTICLE FOR INDIAN SOUNDS & STEPS, DR. SWATHY NARAYANAN WRITES ABOUT THE VARIOUS ASPECTS THAT HAVE SHAPED HER STATURE AS A GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCER. SHE ALSO TALKS ABOUT HER EXPERIENCE AS A FILM ACTOR, THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY SUPPORT FOR ARTSITES, AND ALSO SHARE USEFUL TIPS FOR ASPIRANTS. READ THE ARTICLE.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Swathy Narayanan, the author, is a globally recognized exponent of Kuchipudi, one of India’s classical dance forms. She had initiated her training in Kuchipudi under the guidance of the renowned Kuchipudi exponent Smt. Anupama Mohan. An Ayurvedic Doctor by profession, she thereafter pursued her training in the Kuchipudi Village (a place recognized for its rich Kuchipudi history and heritage) under the eminent guru Dr. Chinta Ravi Balakrishna. She is also trained in Mohiniyattam and Kathakali before she streamlined her talent in Kuchipudi.
Dr. Swathy has completed her certificate and diploma courses in Kuchipudi with distinction from the Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad, and Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Kuchipudi from the Krishna University, Machilipattanam. She has been empanelled in the Government of India’s Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) as a Grade A artiste with Chennai Doordarshan.
While being active with her stage performances, she also conducts Kuchipudi classes in Kochi. Her dance institution adheres to the traditional style of Kuchipudi performances and apt as preparatory lessons for the certificate and diploma courses from the Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University.
Dr. Swathy was one of the few artistes who were invited to perform in the presence of the late APJ Abdul Kalam and Dr. Manmohan Singh, ex-Prime Minister on the 150th anniversary celebrations of India’s first freedom struggle – when she was a teenager. She has acted in a few Malayalam films and has been a popular TV anchor.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator css=”.vc_custom_1624010429324{padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 1% !important;}”][vc_column_text]
THE DR. SWATHY NARAYANAN ARTICLE
On the evolving response Indian classical dance forms
The response to Indian classical dance has evolved in the current times. This may be because the audience has access to vast theoretical and virtual presentations of the art form and artists in the digital world. The majority of the audience arrives with a proper aesthetic understanding. I’ve had the chance to communicate with many from my audience who can authentically comment on the items presented, appreciate the concepts used and suggest any changes as required. These all responses help to mold the artist in me.
“Art and performance should be for self-contentment and happiness in the first place. This will help the artist to accept praise and criticism in a positive spirit.”
On the role of digital media
I believe the rise of technology and digital media has played a major role in elevating the awareness of Indian classical art forms. Social media had helped artists and art to be alive during the pandemic, which otherwise would have silenced/suppressed many of us. It’s easy for us to update our audience on upcoming programs and any announcements as well.
However, everything has two aspects. Whereas we have an audience with a thorough understanding of the art forms and open to detailed presentations, there’s a part of the audience who looks forward to short and popular presentations that they are familiar with, on social media. Personally, I face the challenge to satisfy both categories of the audience.
This is a time of digital performances as well. I’m awestruck by the immense talent and confidence out there. I believe multimedia has opened a wide platform for talent display and this is something to be applauded.
However, as aptly pointed out, the above should be practiced as a healthy habit as well. Art and performance should be for self-contentment and happiness in the first place. This will help the artist to accept praise and criticism in a positive spirit. If someone is always worried about what others will say about their performance, how many ‘likes’ they will receive, whether they will win a competition etc. their stress will naturally affect their art as well. This is where many fade out after instant success.
My advice is to believe in yourself, your art, and your talent. Enjoy the bliss you have and always learn to perfect the inherent talent you’ve. Awards and recognitions will naturally follow you.
“I’ve done limited roles in films, and the major benefit I had as a dancer is that I didn’t have stage fear or any inhibition while acting.”
On her life as a film actor
Dance and film acting are two different art forms. Both need dedicated learning, practice, and experience. I’ve done limited roles in films, and the major benefit I had as a dancer is that I didn’t have stage fear or any inhibition while acting. It also helped me to bring in expressions easily and naturally. Other than that, both roles are different and need complete devotion.
Dance is an art form that I’ve grown up with and naturally I’m more comfortable in this field. As a dancer, I have the freedom to choreograph and innovate new items, whereas as an actress my role is to render the already scripted lines and act as per the directions. I believe acting also needs extensive learning and innovation as an art form.
On the people who are her inspirations
I believe the first inspiration for any artist will be their first ‘Guru’. Smt. Anupama Mohan led me with the initial steps into the world of Kuchipudi, trained me with her skills, moulded me to aspire for perfection, guided me through, and instilled an unbridled passion for Kuchipudi in my heart. We used to listen to her experiences during the training under her Guru, and during her programs, and learn more about her choreography. These all inspired me to do programs and choreography like her.
As a Kuchipudi dancer, I’m also indebted to Padma Bhushan Vempati Chinna Satyam. Kuchipudi has received world recognition through his sole efforts. If people are recognising me as a Kuchipudi dancer, the recognition should go to him for spreading the glory of the art form outside the Kuchipudi Village.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row enable_arrows_animation=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1624012669427{padding-top: 3% !important;}”][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_gallery interval=”5″ images=”12238,12239,12240,12241,12242″ img_size=”400×350″ onclick=”” css_animation=”fadeIn”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]On how her family has impacted her artistic journey
My family is my strength. My parents guided and supported me from my childhood days and that support continued with my in-laws after the marriage.
I had to take a break from my career for less than a year after my son, Vihaan was born. I completed my Masters in Kuchipudi during that time. My husband and family are also very supportive of my dance programs and classes. My husband is a sailor, and when both of us are away, Vihaan is well-taken care of and comfortable with both his grandparents.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]My parents introduced me to the world of art and they are with me throughout. The most important thing to be mentioned is that when I chose Kuchipudi over my profession as an Ayurvedic Doctor, they supported me without a second thought. They never tried to dissuade me when I left my career as an Ayurvedic Doctor and went to Kuchipudi Village to learn under an eminent Guru like Sri. Chinta Ravi Bala Krishna. If they had stopped me, I wouldn’t have gone against their wishes. It’s a blessing when we’ve parents who can see what we’re destined for.
On her dreams as an artiste
As every performing artist, I wish to perform on many stages for my aesthetic audience. My ultimate dream in this field is to create thematic choreographies that can mark my humble presence in the vast world of Kuchipudi. I believe that it will be possible in the coming years with the help of my family and most importantly with my orchestra team, who are one of the best in Kerala.
Her message for aspiring artistes
Academic excellence is also important along with the artistic grooming for any artist. My advice to young artists is to focus on their academics as well at least until the graduation/ post-graduation level. This will only help us to boost our confidence and to be financially independent. If any artist can manage both fields well, then nothing can stop them.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator css=”.vc_custom_1624011263768{padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 3% !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row enable_arrows_animation=”no” css=”.vc_custom_1474355814165{padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]
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