Bharatanatyam builds cultural bridges in Belgium

Mangaluru: In a unique confluence of Indian tradition and European heritage, the rhythmic grace of Bharatanatyam came alive inside a European chapel as Belgium Kala Vedike hosted a cultural event in Belgium. Held at Erasme Ruelensvest 127, recently, the programme brought together artistes from across Belgium. Calling it a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, Naveen Shetty, founder of Belgium Kala Vedike, said the organisation is working to promote Indian art forms like Bharatanatyam while creating platform for artistes and cultural exchange beyond borders.

Founded in 2024, Belgium Kala Vedike is dedicated to preserving and promoting Indian art, language and heritage among future generations in Europe. The organisation conceptualised the event as a platform exclusively devoted to Bharatanatyam, offering artistes recognition, visibility and an opportunity to celebrate the classical dance form in an inspiring atmosphere.

He said, the uniqueness of presenting Bharatanatyam inside a chapel added a symbolic dimension to the event, reflecting a cultural bridge between India and Europe while highlighting the universal language of art. The venue is a multi-functional cultural, educational, and heritage hub.

Vidushi Shilpa Abhiram from Bengaluru, Venkateshwaran Narayanan, counsellor (PIC) at the Embassy of India, Brussels, Guru Poornima Nair from the Netherlands, Guru Chaithali Shah from Belgium, and Belgium Kala Vedike co-founder Rashmi Rangaswamaiah and sponsors Selvi Palaniappan of Dabba King and Saranya, founder of Samprita Kitchen, were present.

The dignitaries praised the initiative for creating a dedicated platform for Bharatanatyam in Europe and nurture local talent. The Embassy of India in Brussels also lauded Belgium Kala Vedike’s efforts, said Shetty.

The performances showcased a lineup of artistes. Members of the Belgium Kala Vedike troupe performed alongside Akshatha Mohan and Priti Manoor. Dhiksha Mohankumar, currently training under Guru Poornima Nair at Sankara Dance Academy in Eindhoven, also enthralled the audience. Aaradhya Golchha and Mehikaa Golchha, both Visharad graduates in Bharatanatyam under Guru Nainika Kasliwal. Mehikaa, who has already performed across Belgium, the United Kingdom and India. Antwerp-based Parapragya Dance School, led by Guru Chaithali Shah, staged a vibrant group presentation featuring Dheeya Darshan Mehta, Hritika Mehta, Shaasvi Mehta, Neya Sentheesan, Sangavi Selvachandran, Yaazhini Ramakrishnan, Amee Ajit Shah, Arisha Mehta, Paryushi Shah and Selvi Palaniappan. The event concluded with a solo performance by Swathi Anilkumar, disciple of Guru Revathi Narasimhan.