Dance is a perfect interaction between body, mind and soul that generates divine energy and the dancer becomes a medium through which this perfect combo syncs and harmony find its expression.
The body is the basic instrument which creates the art. So, necessarily the quality of the art depends on the physical activity.
As a dancer we are aware that the flexible body has scope for the movements which needs training. The proper control, balance, sync to the rhythm and being expressive through movement is the core requirement in addition to grace, fluidity and harmony in a dancer. As a choreographer the biggest challenge is to choreograph a composition based on the dancer’s forte. Dancers vary based on how they articulate and project the movement. Some may be energetic and some may be soft, some may have technical movement strength and some may have graceful and expressional strength. Recognizing this forte is an important aspect both as the choreographer and the dancer.
A dancer is not defined solely by their physical skill; the mind plays an equally vital role. It is essential for a dancer to understand the rhythm patterns and to synchronize movements precisely with the music. Coordination between the chosen steps and the underlying beat is crucial for creating a seamless performance. Before choreographing a composition, proper groundwork is necessary. This involves thorough research and study, often in consultation with scholars, to grasp the core essence of the theme. Once the concept is clear, the next step is working with trained musicians to compose music that complements the dance. Ensuring that every dancer internalizes the rhythm and the nuances of the music is vital for cohesion.
The process emphasizes training the mind to sync not just with the music but also with co-dancers, ensuring that every movement resonates in harmony. A dancer’s mental preparation allows them to understand the subtleties of the performance while maintaining presence and awareness on stage.
Finally, no dance touches the heart if the dancer themselves doesn’t enjoy. As said in Nāṭyaśāstra the “sātvika abhinaya” creates “rasa” or the happiness in the audience. Dance is divine, because the dancer is blessed with the capability to forget oneself and step into the different world and become someone else.
On stage they can be a Devi, Krishna or any other character and with the expressions they have the ability to connect with the audience. Only when the body and the mind are in sync it gives absolute liberty to the dancers to enjoy their dance. Unlike movements, being in sync with one’s soul needs a tremendous work and experience which will come through practice.
In the end, a dancer’s journey is not just about perfecting movement, but about weaving together the depths of the mind, the strength of the body and the spirit of the soul. Each step, gesture and breath becomes a dialogue between these three realms, creating an experience that transcends performance and touches the essence of being. -By Dr Rashmi Thaper
Principal, Nritya Sinchana Dance
Company