Dance institute Natya Vriksha celebrated the five decades of the dance journey of its founder, Guru Geeta Chandran. and her vast contribution to the Indian Cultural landscape. Since her Arangetram in 1974 on 25th October, Chandran has steadfastly nurtured and promoted Bharatanatyam not just as a dancer but also as a Guru. In honour of the Golden anniversary of this momentous day, Natya Vriksha organized a two-day Bharatanatyam extravaganza on Thursday and Friday, October 24th and 25th, 2024, at Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi.
Guru Raja Reddy, who had attended Geeta’s arangetram in 1974, congratulating her
On Day 1, Geeta Chandran and the Natya Vriksha Dance collective presented “Pravahati”, a showcase of her innovative choreography. This performance highlighted Geeta’s unique vision for Bharatanatyam, exploring the dance form’s potential for contemporary expression and experimentation. Pravahati – as the name suggests dwells into the depths and dynamic nature of Bharatnatyam. Touching upon the non-stagnant properties of time and space she explored the dance form to bring out its uniqueness. The choreography of Pravahati featured four striking sections: an intricate Mallari honoring Shiva, Kalidas’ Varsha Ritu from Ritusamhara, Vahati, which explored the idea of tradition as a dynamic flow of experiences and it wrapped up with an exuberant Tillana.
On the occasion Geeta Chandran stated, “Dance much like life, should not be limited by tradition; instead, it must evolve and be reinterpreted through the artist’s unique perspective.” Her talent for blending contemporary expressions with classical techniques defines her career and Pravahati stands as a testament to this artistry.
Despite the global popularity of Indian Classical Dance, with countless teachers and students worldwide, Guru Chandran believes a more rigorous standard is necessary to differentiate between casual learners and dedicated practitioners, she asserted, “While the art form’s reach is undeniable, a clear distinction between hobbyists and lifelong devotees will ensure its continued brilliance.”
Co-artists Dr. Anita Ratnam, Smt. Rama Vaidyanathan and Smt. Vanashree Rao, applauding five decades of Geeta Chandran
Day 2 featured a solo Bharatanatyam performance by Geeta Chandran. Accompanied by a talented ensemble of Delhi’s top musicians: Nattuvangam: Varun Rajasekharan; Vocals: Smt. Sudha Raghuraman; Mridangam: Manohar Balatchandirane; Violin: G. Raghavendra Prasath; and Flute: G. Raghuraman. She presented a selection of her most celebrated classical pieces.
Reflecting on her 50-year journey, Chandran shared, “As I approach the personal milestone of completing five decades of dancing since my Arangetram in October 1974, I can only pay the richest tribute to my stalwart Gurus who so freely shared this invaluable art with me, but also gave me the freedom to question the tradition constantly and reinterpret it for myself.” She further adds, “Every day of my life, Bharatanatyam energizes me. It pushes me to explore its vast potential through performing, teaching, conducting, collaborating, and more.”
Guru Vidushi Geeta Chandran is a celebrated figure in the world of Indian classical dance. She has been honored with numerous prestigious awards, including the Padmashri, the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Tagore National Fellowship, and the Nritya Chudamani. She has served as the curator of dance at the prestigious Serendipity Arts Festival in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
She is also a dedicated dance guru, scholar, media personality, and Carnatic vocalist. As the Founder-President of Natya Vriksha in New Delhi, Geeta Chandran has been mentoring young artists, and promoting a holistic approach to dance learning. Her pedagogy integrates classical dance with diverse disciplines and values, emphasizing the importance of tradition and meaningful cultural dialogue.
She has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, supporting arts education in formal curricula and leading social campaigns. Geeta Chandran’s recent project with Natya Vriksha, aims to teach Indian culture through dance and related subjects to 1500 students from disadvantaged backgrounds at the Vidya School in Gurgaon, Haryana, is a testament to her commitment to making the arts accessible to all.
