In a remarkable celebration of cultural exchange, 13-year-old Lei Muzi from China made history by becoming the first-ever Chinese student to perform a Bharatanatyam “Arangetram” in her home country. This event, which took place on 11th August , marked a significant milestone in the growing popularity of this ancient Indian classical dance form in China.
The Arangetram in Tamil, is a graduation ceremony in Bharatanatyam is a tradition in South Indian culture. It signifies a dancer’s debut performance on stage after years of practice. For Lei, this moment was more than just a personal achievement; it was a historic event that highlighted the deepening cultural connections between China and India.
Lei’s performance was witnessed by an esteemed audience, including celebrated Bharatanatyam dancer Leela Samson, Indian diplomats, and a large gathering of Chinese fans. The two-hour performance, accompanied by musicians flown in from Chennai, showcased Lei’s dedication and passion for Bharatanatyam, as she gracefully performed to several classical compositions.
T S Vivekanand, the First Secretary of the Indian Embassy in charge of culture, emphasized the importance of this event, noting that it was the first Arangetram by a student fully trained in China.
This is the first-ever Arangetram by a student fully trained in China and performed in China
Lei has been learning from Jin Shan Shan, an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer who herself performed her Arangetram in New Delhi in 1999. For Lei, her journey with Bharatanatyam began in 2014 when she joined Jin’s school. Over the years, her love for the dance form and Indian culture has only deepened.
I completely fell in love with it. I kept dancing till now. For me Bharatanatyam is not only a beautiful art and dance form but also the embodiment of Indian Culture
The event was not just a personal milestone for Lei but also a significant moment for Chinese fans of Indian classical art. For many who have devoted their lives to learning and performing these ancient traditions, Lei’s Arangetram represents a historic achievement and a testament to the growing cultural exchange between China and India.
Lei is set to perform in Chennai later this month, further solidifying the cultural ties between the two nations through the medium of dance. Her Arangetram in China serves as a powerful symbol of how art transcends borders, bringing people together in a shared appreciation for tradition and creativity.
Sources: The Hindu
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