Bharathanatyam in Newham

About Bharathanatyam in Newham

It is no secret that Newham is incredibly diverse and has the power to attract, embrace and celebrate people from all cultures. This legacy dates back to the 1950s and is a fundamental part of British values today. With the many perks of migration, the top of the list has to be the significant cultural contributions, which have been instrumental in empowering people, building bridges and enriching communities.

One such cultural contribution that flourished in Newham is Bharathanatyam, the beautiful classical dance form that originates from Tamil Nadu, South India and is steeped in Indian history and culture. This oldest Indian classical dance derived from the text Natya Shastra and was initially performed in temples. However, today, Bharatanatyam encompasses religious and non-religious themes and fusion styles. Characterised by precise movements, sharp edges, and expressive body language, this dance has delighted audiences for generations.

The word ‘Bharatanatyam’ was derived by combining two Sanskrit words:  ’Bharata’, which is a mnemonic containing ’Bha’ (bhava/emotions), ‘Ra’ (raga/melody), and ‘Ta’ (tala/rhythm) and Natyam’ meaning dance.  So, the term ‘Bharatanatyam’ means a dance that expresses Bhava, Raga, and Tala.

Although Bharathanatyam was first introduced in Newham in the early 80s, there are limited historical records of this, which is why MAUK made it their mission to capture and preserve the untold stories and memories about how Bharathanatyam first reached the Newham community.

Four different Bharatanatyam classes were running in Newham during the 1980s. The newly migrated Indian parents were keen that their children preserved and felt closely connected with their Indian roots. Enrolling their children for Bharathanatyam lessons was an appealing solution for maintaining cultural continuity, establishing a strong cultural identity and ultimately keeping them out of trouble!

Jasline Shimmy Antony: The Power to Empower

Jasline Antony, a Newham-born and raised professional Bharatanatyam artist, reflects on her humble journey in Bharathanatyam and its phenomenal impact on her sense of identity, community and belonging. Jasline speaks about the prominence of her Gurus in her upbringing and how Bharathanatyam helped her to escape depression and anxiety. 

Shane Shambhu: Confessions of a Cockney Temple Dancer

Meet Shane Shambu, a highly trained and accomplished professional male Bharathanatyam artist, theatre director and an award-winning choreographer born and raised in Newham. Shane, who has a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise in Bharathanatyam, shares his captivating journey in Bharathanatyam and the challenges he faced when pursuing a dance career. 

Pushkala Gopal MBE: Pushkala Gopal and the Making of Mudralaya

Meet Pushkala Gopal MBE, perhaps the greatest exponent of Bharathanatyam in the UK. She is a freelance performer, lecturer, teacher, choreographer, and ISTD Examiner for Bharathanatyam. Pushkala speaks about her fondest memories of establishing ‘Mudralaya School of Dance’ in Newham in the 1980s. 

Suresh Dharmarajan: The Story of Nadaraja Dance School

Suresh Dharmarajan, President of Sree Narayana Guru Mission, shares his recollections of how Bharathanatyam classes initially began at his centre in Newham and why it attracted broad interest. 

Vimala Krishnan: The Proud Parent’s Perspective

Vimala Krishnan speaks from the perspective of a parent who craved to send her daughter for Bharathanatyam lessons during the 1980s and watched her daughter blossom into a highly talented and beautiful Bharathanatyam dancer.