Persatuan Kebudayaan & Kesenian Warisan Malaysia Offers Free Bharathanatyam Lessons to Underprivileged Children

In a bid to preserve the rich heritage of Bharathanatyam, Persatuan Kebudayaan & Kesenian Warisan Malaysia (PKKWM) has embarked on a noble initiative. Through their recent Facebook announcement, they unveiled the commencement of Batch 3 of their project, offering free basic Bharathanatyam lessons for one year, which already started on March 1st, 2024.

This initiative aims to introduce 80 underprivileged students from various states to the intricate art form of Bharathanatyam, a classical dance deeply rooted in Indian culture and tradition. The endeavor not only serves as a platform for cultural preservation but also provides a unique opportunity for children to explore and appreciate the nuances of this ancient art.

The success of this project wouldn’t have been possible without the collaborative efforts of dedicated dance schools and instructors. The following teachers have joined hands to make this endeavor a reality:

Jeya Sheela Mani, AHAANALAYA PERFORMING ARTS (Perak and Penang)
Ratna Uma Manogaran, NRITYA JOTHI DANCE ACADEMY (Perak)
Thirisha, THIRIDENI NARTHANAM (Johor)
Subathra, Subathra Natyalaya (Kajang)
Lavanya and Sai Suetha, LS Creation (Puchong, Bukit Jalil, and Lembah Subang)
Shamini Brakasam, AARUDHRA INDIAN ARTS ASSOCIATION (Melaka)
Devi Letchmanan, House of Isai Heritaj (Bandar Mahkota Cheras)

Their dedication and commitment to imparting cultural knowledge and skills to the younger generation are commendable and reflective of their passion for Bharathanatyam.

The involvement of media partners and well-wishers has also played a pivotal role in the success of this initiative. Through their support, PKKWM has been able to reach a wider audience and garner greater participation in their cultural endeavors.

The initiative not only offers dance lessons but also fosters a sense of community and empowerment among underprivileged children. Through exposure to Indian arts and culture, these children have the opportunity to explore their talents and passions beyond the confines of personal survival. “Whenever your action goes beyond personal survival, Know that you have entered living.” quoted by master Dhyan Vimal.

PKKWM’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. By providing access to Bharathanatyam lessons, they are not only nurturing artistic talent but also instilling a sense of pride and identity in Malaysia’s diverse cultural tapestry.

As the project unfolds, it is expected to leave an indelible mark on the lives of these young learners, empowering them to embrace their cultural roots and contribute positively to society. Indeed, PKKWM’s initiative exemplifies the transformative power of art and culture in enriching lives and bridging communities.