Bharatanatyam Prodigy Anvita Jain Captivates Audience with Arangetram

On August 8th, 2025, Anvita Jain, a disciple of Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Guru Vidushi Geeta Chandran, presented her Arangetram, or debut solo Bharatanatyam recital, at the Chinmaya Mission Auditorium in New Delhi. The performance, organized by Natya Vriksha, the dance institution founded by Geeta Chandran, was attended by an august audience of over 300 rasikas, art connoisseurs, cultural leaders, and members of the dance fraternity.

The evening was graced by distinguished guests, including Malini Awasthi as the chief guest. Anvita's Arangetram, which marks a significant rite of passage in the guru-shishya tradition, featured a captivating repertoire that showcased her technical prowess and artistic maturity. The performance began with a Pushpanjali, a floral invocation, followed by an Alarippu, an exploration of pure movement and rhythm. Anvita then displayed her command over complex rhythmic patterns in the Jathiswaram, while the Varnam, the centerpiece of the recital, tested her stamina and expressive range, weaving together intricate footwork and evocative abhinaya.

The second half of the program featured a tender narrative piece, Thaye Yashoda, bringing to life the charming antics of young Krishna, and Chaakar, a 16th-century composition in Braj bhasha by Meerabai, reflecting subtle lyricism in praise of Lord Krishna of Vrindavan. The evening culminated in a spirited Thillana, showcasing vibrant energy and joyous celebration.