by Godha Pranathi If my mom hadn’t lied that day, then I would consider myself incomplete. I have two names: Godha, the name only close relatives use, while Pranathi is my “American” name. I was never one whole person, but two identities shoved into one body, until my passion for dance blended them into a cohesive self, helping me accept who I am.  “Can I get out?” I muttered as I clung to my mother's churidar, begging not to go down the void of stairs approaching a looming doorframe. It was...

by NIKITA GOYAL I have always struggled with my identity. Born and raised in America, I often found myself "too Indian" or "not Indian enough", making it difficult for me to ever really feel like I belong. So, when my parents decided to introduce me to Bharatanatyam at the age of 4, I finally found a safe space to embrace my heritage. To me, Bharatanatyam is more than an amalgamation of movements; it is an incredible feat of strength that showcases poignant tales with emotion and grace....

by RHEA CADAMBI My legs burn. My feet ache. Yet the unwavering, exhilarated smile on my face is genuine every time. The thrill of striding onto stage upon hearing Guru Sukanya’s signal of the kinkini has lasted from my first Bharatanatyam performance at age ten through my most recent, seven years later. Channeling the essence of each Hindu deity, captivating the crowd, and letting loose all inhibitions make every performance even more invigorating than the last. However, Bharatanatyam extends...