GEORGE TOWN: Classical Indian dance forms like the Bharatanatyam and Odissi, while wondrous to watch, take years of learning.
The ability to learn the various moves and facial expressions to follow the beat is a special feat.
The Temple of Fine Arts Penang (TFA) has unique classes with aspiring young dancers learning these centuries-old dance forms, and this Deepavali is special for the TFA because in recent years, the number of learners attending its weekly lessons has surged to about 400.
To top it off, some students pick up musical instruments like the violin, tabla, sitar, guitar, veena and mridangam (a percussion instrument) as well.
The centre offers Carnatic vocal and Hindustani vocal lessons too.
Dance teacher and TFA graduate M. Seetha Lakshmi said children between the ages of four and six can sign up for Bala Vihar, which introduces the fundamentals of dance, music, rhythm, storytelling, drama, yoga and Indian culture in preparation for joining the advanced dance and music classes.
“The Temple of Fine Arts is the place where a young child can learn music and dance from teachers who understand the true source of creativity and inspiration. It is easy for students as most of our teachers are certified and even graduates of the TFA like me.
“We have a syllabus and examinations by grades for students. They will be certified in that field when they finish,” she added.
Dancer P. Mageesha, 18, said after developing their skills, they get to participate in various performances throughout the year.
“Every year, we have the Navarathri celebrations during which we perform daily for the prayers, and other internal celebrations like founders’ day.
“We take part in state events, George Town heritage celebrations and temple functions as well,” she said.
Mageesha, who has been learning since childhood, said learning to dance had helped her develop poise and composure, which she believes are important for anyone to carry themselves well in daily life.
Seetha said the TFA began in 1981.
“Swami Shantanand Saraswati lit a lamp to symbolise the beginning of something beautiful for the arts, especially music and dance here.
“The aim was to help Malaysian youth rediscover the cultural, artistic and spiritual wealth of their forefathers.
“He envisioned the TFA as a place where young children could learn music and dance from teachers who understood the true source of creativity and inspiration.
“He wanted a way to make it relevant for future generations to come and learn music and dance, as they are essential to the holistic development of children.
“We carry that forward and want to preserve our arts and culture. The best way to do so is to teach it,” she said.
