Margazhi has always held a special place in my heart—a season of deep devotion, reflection, and artistic expression. In this very special episode of ‘Gems of Margazhi’, I had the honor of sitting down with the esteemed Urmila Satyanarayanan, a living legend in the world of Bharatanatyam, to talk about the beauty of this sacred month. Together, we delved into the intertwined worlds of dance, jewelry, and culture, exploring how both traditions continue to shape our lives today.
Margazhi: A Season That Touches the Soul
We began our conversation by reflecting on what makes Margazhi so magical. For both Urmila athai and myself, this month isn’t just about rituals—it’s a time of deep reflection and connection to our heritage. The season brings together devotion, culture, and art in a way that feels almost spiritual. As artistes, it’s a reminder of why we do what we do and the importance of staying connected to our roots.
Jewelry: A Reflection of Personality and Art
One of the most interesting parts of our conversation was when we discussed the role of jewelry in Bharatanatyam. As a dancer, I’ve always believed that jewelry is not just an adornment but a key part of the performance. Urmila athai shared how jewelry, especially the traditional pieces we wear during performances, can enhance the dance, serving as a visual extension of the artist’s personality and devotion. It’s amazing how something so simple can carry such meaning.
Blending Tradition with Modernity
Another topic we explored was how we can evolve with the times without losing sight of our traditions. Both of us agree that while it’s important to adapt to modern influences, we must never forget the essence of what makes Bharatanatyam—and traditional jewelry—so timeless. This balance of honoring the past while embracing the present is key to keeping both art forms alive and relevant.
Passing on Bharatanatyam to the Next Generation
Urmila athai spoke passionately about the responsibility of passing on the sacred art of Bharatanatyam to the next generation. As a third generation entrepreneur, I totally resonate with the importance of passing traditions and value on. It’s not just about teaching the technique but also about imparting the cultural context and devotion that comes with the dance. Without this, the art form would lose its soul. Carrying forward as the next generation is both a privilege and a responsibility I take very seriously.
Jewelry as a Carrier of Memories
One of the most moving parts of our conversation was when we discussed how jewelry carries memories. Every piece—especially those passed down through generations—tells a story. It’s not just about the craftsmanship or the beauty; it’s about the lives and histories that are wrapped up in each piece. Jewelry becomes a living testament to our culture, memories, and the people who wore it before us.
The Universal Language of Art
At the heart of our conversation was the idea that art is a universal language. Whether it’s through dance or jewelry, art has the power to transcend boundaries, to connect people from all walks of life. This was particularly evident when we discussed how Bharatanatyam has been received globally. Despite cultural differences, the emotional depth of the dance speaks to everyone, which is one of the reasons why it’s so powerful.
Adapting Bharatanatyam for a Global Audience
As Bharatanatyam continues to grow in popularity worldwide, we also discussed how it can be adapted for international audiences while staying true to its roots. Performing for diverse audiences brings its own set of challenges, but it also presents an opportunity to share the richness of our culture with the world. There’s a deep satisfaction in seeing people from different backgrounds connect with something so rooted in tradition.
Preserving Heritage Through Jewelry
Towards the end of our conversation, Urmila athai and I discussed how jewelry helps preserve our cultural heritage. Each piece, particularly those worn during special occasions or performances, is a tangible link to the past. Jewelry serves not only as an accessory but as a vessel for our history—preserving the beauty of our culture for generations to come.
Urmila Athai’s True Gem of Margazhi
When it came time to wrap up the episode, I asked Urmila Sathyanarayanan to share her “true gem” of Margazhi. Her answer was both simple and profound—reminding us that the true treasure of this season lies in the connections we make, the devotion we experience, and the art we create and share with the world.
This episode was truly a celebration of all the things I love about Margazhi—tradition, artistry, and the spirit of devotion. I hope you take away as much from this conversation as I did, and that it inspires you to reflect on the beauty of our cultural heritage. If you missed the episode, be sure to watch it and dive into the world of Bharatanatyam, jewelry, and the magic of Margazhi.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/VUEEI2gY3L4?si=1u1n06s7g7MtxgHJ