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Bengaluru: Dance's Modern Muse
19 Feb
Summary
- Bengaluru's blend of tradition and modernity nourishes dancer Madhu Nataraj's art.
- Nataraj pioneered a contemporary Indian dance company with diverse artistic backgrounds.
- She brings performances to unconventional spaces like parks and classrooms.
Choreographer Madhu Nataraj finds artistic inspiration in Bengaluru's dynamic environment, a city that harmoniously blends ancient traditions with contemporary culture. This unique setting has enabled her to continuously evolve her dance practice.
Nataraj established one of the first contemporary Indian dance companies, initially training hip-hop and funk artists from the ground up. She believes art serves as a vital undercurrent in society, becoming emotional scaffolding, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her approach extends beyond traditional stages, with projects performed in public spaces like dhobi ghats and parks to build a wider audience. Nataraj emphasizes that even if not all trained children become professional dancers, they will become patrons who support the arts, underscoring art's indispensable role.
She also advocates for the respect and dignity of artists, particularly folk performers. Nataraj strictly enforces rules against food and beverage services during performances to maintain the sanctity of the artistic experience, ensuring performers are not disrespected or treated as mere decor.
