‘Dance is a continuous process of learning’
The National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) recently unveiled the line-up for this season of the Mumbai Dance Season 2020, that features dance performances by various institutes and artistes from across the city. A monthlong festival, it started with a majestic performance showcasing colourful presentation of different folk dances such as Tharpa, Kaikottikalli, Laragam, Ghoomar, Rasgarpa, Sapera and Koli, among others. Apart from the performances, the season also includes panel discussions on the significance of dance video presentations, talks by renowned dancers, and more. One of the finale performer and programming head of dance (NCPA), Swapnokalpa Dasgupta, is a disciple of legendary Guru, Late Kelucharan Mohapatra and Guru Poushali Mukerji, and is very proficient in the Odissi dance form. We got in touch with the danseuse to talk about dance as an art form.
Tell us about your upcoming performance.
This is our second edition of the one-month long season filled with exciting performances. Like always, we have two guest curators — senior artistes Vaibhav Arekar and Daksha Mashruwala. They have woven the evening with duets by young artistes from different dance styles collaborating and creating choreographies exclusively for the event.
As we are heading to the finale of the season, how has the overall experience been?
I am overwhelmed. It was my dream to celebrate the power of dance by joining hands with the entire dance community of the city. And I am really thankful to the entire community for this. Dance performances, lecturedemonstrations, workshops, video interviews, guided viewing with senior artistes — we have it all.
What is the best part about performing on stage?
Being on stage is a small part of learning a dance form. It is a continuous process of learning. Every time I teach or learn or practice, I am learning. I become a bit better than what I was. Stage performance, to me, is exciting. It is a beautiful opportunity to share with the audience.
You believe dance is more than just a co-curricular activity. Do you think it is lucrative enough to be taken as a profession?
Absolutely, it is. It takes your attention away from material gains. It teaches you to grow from within. Any form of art does that to you. Like any other professions, you just have to keep going. And dance is not just about performing anymore. It is relevant in academics, research, arts management. I think if young learners research about the avenues and think out of the box, then they will surely find ways to fulfil their dreams.
Any change you have seen in the classical dance space over the years?
I think, over the years, we’ve seen a growth in the number of festivals in the city. And what’s exciting is that along with arts organisations, many senior artistes have started making platforms for young dancers. I am seeing an increase in the number of adults who are learning classical dance. Our future looks quite promising.