Two dancers glide across the stage in an elaborate representation of a classical Indian myth. In step with the music, they convey the emotions and actions associated with each aspect of the story through intricate gyrations of the body and facial expressions.
Seniors Asha Ravichandran and Sathwika Thodeti have been participating in traditional dancing for eleven and ten years respectively. Bharathanatyam is a form of storytelling that is a revered aspect of Indian culture. Many of the dance pieces are about specific divinities and idols, and it narrates the ancient stories of Hinduism.

Thodeti’s mother, Salija Thodeti, discussed how her daughter got her start in the art of Bharathanatyam.

“[Thodeti] started when she was 6 years old. I have always been interested since I watched a family friend’s daughter perform her Arangetram, which is a graduation performance that displays a student’s completion of training in the art form,” Salija said.

Thodeti also discussed why she was so passionate about dancing and continues to partake in the painstaking activity.

“It is a real passion of mine. I enjoy the music and the liveliness of Bharathanatyam. There are so many aspects involved in performing too. Not only do you have intricate steps involving your entire body, but you have to display vibrant expressions as well. Also, Bharathanatyam encompases the culture of my traditional Indian background and allows me to connect with my roots,” Thodeti said.

Thodeti touched upon the lessons that she learned from practicing dancing.

“I performed my Arangetram in 2013. My performance was a three-hour solo performance, and I had been preparing for it 2 years prior to the performance. So I definitely learned dedication and discipline throughout the whole event. In addition, Bharathanatyam really builds stamina and endurance,” Thodeti said.

Ravichandran talked about the most difficult aspects of partaking in Bharathanatyam.

“[It is] definitely the dedication and commitment. You have to really put all your energy and focus toward it. It is very time-consuming and very difficult to master, but if you are truly passionate about it, it is completely worth the time, and extremely enjoyable. It can also be a good stress reliever and break from school,” Ravichandran said.

Thodeti discussed her typical practice schedule that she follows to perfect her form.

“I practice about two hours every other day now. But during the preparation for my Arangetram, I had two hour practices with my teacher every other day, and then I practiced individually for two hours on the alternate days, and the three months before the actual performance, I had four hour practices four days a week,” Thodeti said.

Thodeti touched upon her favorite memory from her multiple years of dance exposure.

“[My favorite memory was] definitely learning about the culture behind each of the dance pieces. Every time I begin a new dance item, my teacher explains to me the stories and meanings behind it, and by learning this, I can better portray the emotions and feelings on stage,” Thodeti said.

Thodeti’s last performance was on March 20 at the Siva Vishnu Temple in Cleveland. Ravichandran does not know when her next performance will be.