News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/16th August 2024
In a groundbreaking cultural event, 13-year-old Lei Muzi has made history by performing the ancient South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam in China. Her solo performance, known as “Arangetram,” took place in Beijing and marks the first time this traditional graduation ceremony for Bharatanatyam has been held in China.
The event drew significant attention, with Lei Muzi showcasing her skills in front of esteemed Bharatanatyam dancer Leela Samson, Indian diplomats, and a large audience of enthusiastic Chinese fans. Lei’s performance is particularly notable as it represents the culmination of years of training and signifies a major milestone for the Bharatanatyam community in China.
Arangetram, which means “ascending the stage” in Tamil, is a significant rite of passage for Bharatanatyam dancers. It is traditionally the dancer’s first solo performance after years of rigorous training, performed before a gathering of teachers, experts, and audience members. This ceremony is crucial as it marks the transition from student to performer, allowing dancers to showcase their skills and begin their journey as professional artists.
The event was a historic occasion, celebrated for its traditional execution and its importance in Bharatanatyam’s expansion beyond its South Indian origins. T.S. Vivekanand, the First Secretary of the Indian Embassy responsible for cultural affairs, highlighted the significance of Lei’s Arangetram, noting that it was the first time a student trained entirely within China performed this rite of passage on Chinese soil.
Jin Shan Shan, the Chinese Bharatanatyam dancer who trained Lei Muzi, expressed pride in her student’s achievement. Jin, who was the first Chinese dancer to complete her Arangetram in New Delhi in 1999, noted that Lei’s performance represents a landmark in the history of Bharatanatyam. The fact that Lei was trained by a Chinese teacher and performed in China highlights the growing appreciation and integration of Indian classical arts in the region.
Lei Muzi, affectionately known as Dudu, began her journey in Bharatanatyam in 2014 under Jin’s guidance. She spoke passionately about her love for the dance form, describing it as not just an art but a deep reflection of Indian culture. Her dedication and enthusiasm for Bharatanatyam have been evident throughout her training, making her Arangetram a momentous occasion.
The event was attended by a distinguished audience, including Shruti Rawat, the wife of Indian Ambassador Pradeep Rawat, who was the chief guest. The performance, which lasted for over two hours, featured a series of classical Bharatanatyam pieces performed to music by a team of musicians flown in from Chennai.
As Lei Muzi prepares for her upcoming performance in Chennai later this month, her historic Arangetram in Beijing stands as a testament to the growing influence and acceptance of Bharatanatyam and Indian cultural traditions in China. The event not only marks a personal achievement for Lei but also signifies a cultural bridge between India and China, celebrating the rich heritage of Bharatanatyam on a global stage.
