On Friday, June 30, 2023, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Robbinsville, NJ, hosted – the Melodies of Motion - Bharatnatyam Showcase. The traditional performance gave members of the local community an opportunity to witness India’s vibrant culture through Bharatnatyam, a form of Indian classical dance.
Over thirty young women of all ages performed various Bharatnatyam dances under the open sky. Originally performed as a highly revered act of devotion, dancers expressed their spirituality using intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures (mudras), and captivating facial expressions.
The event honored a long history of Bharatnatyam dancers and highlighted their contributions to Indian art and culture.
Neha Patel, a renowned Bharatnatyam instructor at Nritya Traditions shared, “Watching the women perform devotional dances at a place where art, culture, and spirituality converge was sublime.”