'A good dancer has it tougher than sportsmen'
BECOMING a successful Indian classical dancer is a challenge, says Pritam Das, one of India’s most promising young Bharatanatyam dancers.
Pritam Das, an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer from Kolkata now based in New Delhi, asserts that a career in Indian classical dance is demanding. Beyond possessing innate talent, a dancer must maintain a consistent, disciplined lifestyle and prioritize their physical well-being. Pritam contends that sustaining a dancer's physique is more challenging than that of sportspeople, sometimes even as arduous as that of a Navy Seal.
He emphasizes the importance of a rigorous diet and exercise regimen to remain in peak condition for performances.
Pritam's journey into dance began at age four and was influenced by his maternal relatives, who were musically inclined. He often performs solo acts, a key aspect of Bharatanatyam, which requires exceptional expressiveness and facial control to captivate audiences. He compares a solo dance to a canvas, painting the audience with his unique style.
Solo performances present a significant challenge, as they demand the dancer to embody various characters and emotions. Rehearsals often last five hours daily, and a solo dancer must immerse themselves completely in the role, aligning their mind, body, and soul. Pritam acknowledges the unique difficulties faced by male dancers, who must surpass other performers to rise above preconceived notions and accusations of being mere eye candy.
He further elaborates on the financial challenges in the dance industry, stating that securing funding for professional dance careers is difficult, often leaving new artists to self-fund.
For Pritam, the art of dance transcends mere entertainment, serving as a medium to connect with the divine and cultivate empathy and compassion. He believes that dance teachers and fellow dancers should continuously learn and grow. Pritam engages in a personal pre-performance ritual, which keeps him focused and mentally prepared for the audience. He believes that humility and gratitude are essential qualities for a dancer, appreciating the admiration of the audience and the guidance of dance mentors.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
