Feel the Dance
Dance is the universal language of Art. To define a dance or an art, it excites the heart, mind, soul and spirit of the dancers as well as the spectators for whom it is delivered. Dance develops poise, discipline, and the personal fulfilment. Dance is a gift from God and to be used for His praise and glory- says Mr. Dharma, the dance teacher who hails from Tumkur district in Karnataka, india.He joined as a student at Shree Ramana Maharishi Academy(SRMAB) for the Blind,Bangalore when he was nine years in 1994. Right from his young age, he would love to listen to various types of music, classical, folks, cinematic etc.In 1997, he started to learn classical dance from Guru Shri K. Narayan. It was quite challenging to follow the rhythm and postures in dance with his challenged vision. His Guru took a lot of time and effort to teach the students at SRMAB through touch and feel method. The passion, dedication and support towards the dance made Dharma to excel better. His first stage performance was at Chennai in 1997 which received a great applause. After the completion of diploma in dance, he got opportunity to perform dance across the globe.
At present, he is teaching dance to around 25 students who are visually challenged. The kids learn classical, folk and kuchupudi dances.Dharma has personally choreographed many classical dances and performed along with his students. He was the proud winner of All India Dance competition held in Madurai recently. SRMAB students participated in Guinness books of record, performed kuchupudi in 14April 2013.
SRMAB takes the sole pride of introducing classical dance through touch and feel method, first time in India. In 1981 dance was introduced as a part of vocational training to visually impaired students with Gurus Mrs. Sharadha Natarajan and Mrs. Ambica Natarajan. The students have performed in Australia, United Kingdom, Italy, and many times in USA.
A basic understanding of correct body placement, simple patterns and rhythms are big challenges towards this learning.They focus on improving coordination and flexibility through rigorous practice and exercises. Right from the floor work, layouts, turns, jumps, complex combinations need to be taught on one to one basis and then coordinate the group together.
SRMAB has trained many visually challenged students in dance and supported them all through their journey as students till they are specialised in their stream.
Even Helen Keller who was born blind and deaf, could see God. No doubt, in her silent darkness, every fragrant flower, every Ray of the warm sun, every taste that touched her tongue told her that there was a God who created all things.
Mr. T V Srinivasan, the founder president of SRMAB believes ‘Love is God and work is worship’. He has given life to more than thousands of people who ever approached with ailments. SRMAB continues to support and care for visually challenged, physically impaired and mentally retarded kids. It provide free services in the field of health, education and socioeconomic rehabilitation to the society for the past 45 years.
Vocational education programs like dance, music, tabla, horticulture have made a real difference in the lives of countless young people like Dharma. SRMAB builds a self confidence and independence skill by allowing students to utilise their unique gifts and talents.
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