In a historic moment, 13-year-old Lei Muzi from China became the first in her country to complete a Bharatanatyam ‘Arangetram’, a significant milestone in the journey of this ancient Indian dance form gaining popularity in China. Her debut performance took place on August 11th in Beijing, captivating an audience of Chinese enthusiasts, Indian diplomats, and esteemed Bharatanatyam expert Leela Samson.
The ‘Arangetram’ is a long-standing South Indian tradition where students showcase their mastery of Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form known for its intricate movements, expressions, and storytelling. This performance marks a student’s graduation, allowing them to perform independently and even teach others.
Lei’s performance was a spectacle of grace and artistry. For two hours, she enthralled the audience with various classical songs, accompanied by musicians brought in from Chennai. Her dedication and talent shone through, earning her enthusiastic cheers throughout the performance.
Lei, also known as Dudu, began her Bharatanatyam journey in 2014 under the guidance of her teacher, Jin Shan Shan, a pioneering Chinese Bharatanatyam dancer. Jin herself was trained by the acclaimed Chinese dancer Zhang Jun, highlighting the dedication and commitment to this art form that transcends geographical boundaries.
Lei’s love for Bharatanatyam blossomed quickly, evolving into a deep passion. She expressed, “I completely fell in love with it. I kept dancing till now. For me, Bharatanatyam is not only a beautiful art and dance form but also the embodiment of Indian culture.” She was captivated by the dance’s beauty, graceful movements, and the rich cultural heritage it represents. “This fascinates me greatly, as well as the gorgeous and graceful movements during a dance item. Overall, I extremely love Bharatanatyam. For me, it is already a daily activity to do, and I am truly interested in the culture of India.”
Lei’s achievement resonates deeply, prompting reflection on the cultural exchange taking place. A social media user, commenting on the video of Lei’s performance, poignantly observed, “When our Indian kids are busy getting westernised and only sticking to speaking English and consider a SIN to speak their mother tongue in public and home. Chinese kids are embracing the BHARATH VALUES and we Indians are only GOOD AT MOCKING THEM.” This comment highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage, drawing attention to the dedication of Chinese students in embracing Indian culture while some Indians might be losing touch with their own traditions.
Lei’s story is a testament to the power of art to connect people across borders and cultures. Her accomplishment not only marks a milestone for Bharatanatyam in China but also serves as an inspiration for cultural exchange and appreciation for the beauty and richness of different traditions.
