Introductory training in Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form, has begun in Cox’s Bazar for the first time, aiming to introduce the tradition to a new generation and develop the skills of local performers.
The programme has been launched by the training department of the Satyen Sen Shilpigoshthi, Cox’s Bazar district unit.
The training was inaugurated at 5:00 pm on Monday at Cox’s Bazar Institute and Public Library through the lighting of a ceremonial lamp. Khorshed Alam, the organisation’s president, inaugurated the programme.
Dancer and invited instructor Golam Mostafa Bobby, poet Asif Noor, district Shilpakala Academy dance instructor Aditi Barua, and dance instructors Sumi Das and Rishita Debi attended the event.
Khorshed Alam presided over the programme, and the organisation’s general secretary, Monir Mobarak, conducted it. Its finance secretary, Ayat Ullah, education and research secretary, Subrata Mallick, member Sheikh Yunus and other cultural personalities were also present.
Speakers said classical dance was an important part of cultural heritage and that introducing Bharatanatyam in Cox’s Bazar would add a new dimension to local cultural activities. They stressed the need for regular training and cultural programmes to develop music, theatre and dance in the district.
After the inauguration, Bobby gave participants their first lesson in Bharatanatyam, introducing them to basic hand gestures, body postures, rhythm, beats and expressions.
He said every body movement, hand gesture, eye expression and rhythm in Bharatanatyam carried particular significance, and that regular practice was essential to mastering the dance form.
The training sessions will be held at the Cox’s Bazar Public Library at 4:30 pm on the first and third Mondays of every month, according to the organisers.
The initiative aims to expand classical dance practice, develop new performers and enrich the district’s cultural scene, they said.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
