Rekha Raju, a proponent of classical dance, represents Mohiniyattam in the expert committee panel of Ministry of Culture, Government of India. A recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, the ace dancer was in Cuttack for her performance in the eighth edition of Laxman Garnaik Smruti Antarjatika Nrutya Sangeeta Samaroh 2019. In a freewheeling chat with Chaitali Shome of Orissa Post, she opens up about her exceptional journey. Excerpts:
How was the passion for classical dance instilled in you?
It was my mother Jaylaxmi who instilled this passion in me. She was a singer and didn’t have the opportunity to get on the stage due to her orthodox background. Hence, she encouraged and empowered me to learn Mohiniattam.
What is the difference between Bharatnatyam and Mohiniattam?
The basic difference between Bharatnatyam and Mohiniattam is simple. While Bharatnatyam has more lines and is more vigourous, Mohiniattam has more curves and is more subtle.
Do you wish to teach Mohiniattam in Odisha?
Odisha is near to where I reside. The state has a rich cultural heritage. Currently, I am teaching Mohiniattam at Pune. I conduct three workshops there. I have also taught in Scotland. Hence, teaching students in Odisha is definitely on my list.
What is your most memorable experience as a dancer?
When I was only four and half year old, I performed my first stage programme. My mother says that I was all decked up and looked like a doll. After 45 minutes of performance, I was nowhere to be found on stage. This worried my parents. To their utter delight, they found that the audience had taken me into their arms to shower their love for me. It was incredible.
Who were instrumental in your career?
My mother accompanies me to my stage performances since I was three. I have been treated like a princess by my parents. and even in our hardship days my parents gave me the best. My first guru Padmini Ramchandran taught me the most difficult aspects of the dance. Later, I joined Raju Datta and Kalamandlam who taught me the value of humility. Gopika Verma and Prof Janardanam were instrumental in my career too.
Tell us about your distinctive recognitions.
I have received Swarnamukhi award which was conferred on me by the royal family. I have also received Yuva Kala Bharati, Nrutyasamrat from Nagpur, Kalayogi by ICCR and Yuva Pratibha from Karnataka Government.
Describe your experience in Odisha.
I am a big fan of Odissi dance and its music. Odisha is a culturally rich state of India. Every dancer aspires to visit the state and perform at least once in their lifetime.
What would be your word of advice for classical dance aspirants?
I would advice budding dancers to respect their teachers and never talk any ill of them. Something is seriously wrong with an aspirant if he badmouths a Guru. India is a culturally rich country. Everyone should respect our culture and encourage our classical dance forms.
