Credit: Special Arrangement
A youth initiative is attempting to bridge the gap between classical and folk art forms. Called Nrityamrutha, it currently has 20 members — aged between 16 and 19.
The group was started in 2022. It aims to raise awareness about lesser-known art forms. Surabhi Kaipy, co-founder, shares: “We started by writing informative articles about various dance forms on our website. We also post easy-to-learn short-form content about the dance forms on our Instagram page.”
Until now, they’ve covered dance forms like Lavani from Maharashtra, Kummi from Tamil Nadu, and Manipuri Ras Leela, among others. The group has also shared information on Indian classical music.
“Our objective is to make Indian arts more accessible, understood, and appreciated across diverse backgrounds. I noticed that only privileged sections of the society have access to most art forms, but that shouldn’t be the case. I want the underprivileged to enjoy Indian dance and music just as much,” shares the 18-year-old.
In July this year, the group launched ‘Project Vidya’, an initiative focused on conducting workshops for underprivileged children, to help close the gap in arts education. They partner with educational institutions and charitable trusts to conduct workshops on Bharatanatyam and Karnatik music.
Visit @nrityamrutha_ on Instagram.