By Deepti Tadala
In one of the very first theory classes, my teacher (Nitya) said as a dancer you must be able to be a character but also a little distant, only then would you be able to do justice. Isn’t that the point of life!! If all of us were able to pay our parts with intention, being a little distant from the happening of body and mind – oh! What a wonderful life I would have..
Little did I know that she would introduce Abhinaya to us so early in our dance journey. And when we did, my joy knew no bounds… The lessons from theory class were imprinted in my core and I was eager to experience them.
We are currently learning Pallavi of a Padam, and little did I know that Abhinaya is not just about moving eyes, hands, and making faces but about being intentional about them. That eyes are truly a reflection of the mind and that when the context and back story is clear in the head, and running parallel to the music and poetry, if present with the poet and the piece, the face emotes much faster, than when trying to force the meaning out.
Then there is the aspect of learning the meaning and application of various gestures, and the nuances of expressions, and intricacies of choreography which I think is a much longer term process.
Especially learning the art form as an adult, Abhinaya becomes more challenging because, unlike kids, as I go through life, I would also unintentionally embrace prejudice, opinions, desires and preconceived notions. To be as convincing as the characters in the piece, it is important to believe that I am the character in body, mind and soul, for the duration of the piece, which means I cannot judge.. And lo, behold, it is not always straightforward to do that
Personally for me, learning Abhinaya has also been very liberating, and sort of a spiritual process. Sometimes in day to day life, body language, words, and expressions might not convey the same meaning. I am trying to become more aware of what my face is doing in emotions in regular life. In the process, I feel I am more in control of my ‘self’.
Best moments in Abhinaya Classes: Watching my teacher show us the choreography. What a beauty those moments are! You know it if you are there!!
Challenging moments in Abhinaya Classes: It was a huge leap to be OK doing Abhinaya in a group, feeling less conscious of myself.
Fun moments in Abhinaya Classes: Discussions, we are all deciphering the characteristics of the protagonists.
