Hashini’s Bharatanatyam Arangetram Marks a Graceful Debut in Chennai

Chennai: A captivating display of classical artistry unfolded in the city as Kumari Hashini Karthikeyan marked her Bharatanatyam arangetram (debut performance) with poise and elegance on Sunday morning. The event, organised by the Omkara Art Foundation, took place at Rani Seethai Hall on Anna Salai and drew an appreciative audience of art lovers, families, and well-wishers.

A devoted disciple of Guru Ajeesh Manjeri, Hashini’s performance reflected years of disciplined training and artistic dedication. The recital commenced with a traditional Pushpanjali, offering salutations to the divine, the guru, the accompanying musicians, and the audience, followed by a series of classical items that highlighted her command over technique and expression.

The occasion was graced by chief guest C. A. Joy, a noted dancer and fashion designer, whose presence added significance to the event.

Hashini, daughter of Dr. Logeswari J and Dr. Karthikeyan K, both senior dental professors, was warmly applauded as she transitioned from student to performer, marking an important milestone in her artistic journey.

The performance was enriched by a talented orchestra, with nattuvangam by Guru Ajeesh Manjeri, vocal support by Mithun Madhusoodanan, mridangam by Sivaprasad, violin by Rijesh Gopalakrishnan, and flute by Sujith S. Naik.

Speaking on the occasion, Guru Ajeesh Manjeri said, “An arangetram is not the culmination but the beginning of a lifelong journey in classical dance. Hashini has shown sincerity and passion, and I am proud of her performance.”

A Kalakshetra alumnus, Guru Ajeesh Manjeri is a well-known Bharatanatyam performer and choreographer, and the founder of Omkara Art Foundation. He has also contributed to cinema, with his choreography work featured through motion capture technology in the Rajinikanth-starrer Endhiran.

The event stood as a testament to the continued vibrancy of Bharatanatyam in Chennai, nurturing young talent while preserving the richness of India’s classical heritage.