Guru Ketaki Ghanekar: Nurturing the Art of Bharatnatyam through Nrityam School of Dance

Since its inception in 2012, Nrityam School of Dance has been a beacon of traditional Indian classical dance in the Kansas City community. Founded by the esteemed Guru Ketaki Ghanekar, the school is dedicated to passing down the rich heritage and intricate skills of Bharatnatyam to the next generation.

For those interested in learning this beautiful dance form, contact Nrityam at nritya.natyam@gmail.com or by phone at 913-333-7570.

The Journey of Guru Ketaki Ghanekar

Guru Ketaki Ghanekar’s journey with Bharatnatyam began under the tutelage of her mentor, Guru Mrs. Vidya Subramaniam.  Reflecting on her experience, Ketaki says, “The importance of Bharatnatyam in my life is just undefinable. Learning Bharatnatyam under my mentor has taught me to be respectful, grateful, graceful, confident, and many more things. Bharatnatyam is not just about learning this ancient practice; it teaches you to appreciate things that you have in life.”

The Essence of Bharatnatyam

Learning Bharatnatyam, a traditional Indian classical dance form, is a profound journey that encompasses a combination of theory, practice, and cultural understanding. At Nrityam, students are immersed in a holistic approach to this art form.

Basic Theory and Practice

1. Understanding the Origin and History: Students delve into the rich history and origins of Bharatnatyam, gaining a deep appreciation for its cultural and historical significance.
2. Theoretical Aspects:
   • Mudras (Hand Gestures): Learning the symbolic hand gestures that convey specific meanings.
   • Abhinaya (Expressions): Mastering the art of facial expressions to portray emotions and narratives.
   • Rhythm (Taal): Understanding the rhythmic patterns that form the foundation of the dance.

Physical Practice, Posture, and Alignment

1. Daily Warm-Up Routines: Emphasizing flexibility and strength to prepare the body for the rigorous demands of the dance.
2. Basic Adavus (Steps) and Variations: Practicing the fundamental steps and their variations, which are the building blocks of Bharatnatyam.
3. Posture and Balance: Focusing on maintaining the proper posture (Araimandi) and achieving balance and grace in movements.
4. Rasa and Bhava: Exploring the nine Rasas (emotional states) and Bhavas (expressions) to bring depth and meaning to performances.
5. Music and Rhythm: Learning to synchronize movements with the accompanying music and rhythm.
6. Performance Skills: Developing the skills necessary for stage performances, including stage presence and audience engagement.
7. Cultural Context: Understanding the cultural and spiritual context of Bharatnatyam to appreciate its deeper significance.
8. Personal Practice and Discipline: Encouraging personal discipline and dedication to the art form, fostering a lifelong connection with dance.

Conclusion

Guru Ketaki Ghanekar’s Nrityam School of Dance is more than just a dance school; it is a nurturing ground for young dancers to develop not only their technical skills but also their personal growth and cultural appreciation. Through her dedication and passion for Bharatnatyam, Ketaki Ghanekar continues to inspire and shape the lives of her students, ensuring that the timeless art of Bharatnatyam thrives for generations to come.

Join Nrityam School of Dance to embark on this enriching journey. Contact us at nritya.natyam@gmail.com or by phone at 913-333-7570.

Address: 8220 W 151st St, Overland Park, KS 66223