By Historic Debut
On August 11, 2024, 13-year-old Lei Muzi achieved a historic milestone by performing the Bharatanatyam ‘Arangetram’ in Beijing. This solo dance performance is a traditional graduation ceremony in Bharatanatyam, marking a dancer’s readiness to perform professionally.
Landmark Achievement
Lei’s Arangetram was attended by renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Leela Samson, Indian diplomats, and a large audience of Chinese fans. This event is notable as it is the first Arangetram by a student trained entirely in China and performed on Chinese soil.
Recognition and Praise
T.S. Vivekanand, the First Secretary of the Indian Embassy for Cultural Affairs, praised the performance as a significant event in the history of Bharatanatyam. Jin Shan Shan, Lei’s teacher and an esteemed Bharatanatyam dancer, highlighted the significance of this achievement for the dance form’s legacy in China.
Performance Details
The two-hour performance featured classical Bharatanatyam pieces, accompanied by musicians flown in from Chennai. Lei, who has been training under Jin Shan Shan for over a decade, was supported by a large crowd that cheered her throughout the event.
Personal Reflections
In her remarks, Lei expressed her deep affection for Bharatanatyam and its cultural significance. She looks forward to her upcoming performance in Chennai, reflecting her ongoing dedication to the dance form.
Teacher’s Pride
Jin Shan Shan, who herself performed her Arangetram in New Delhi in 1999, expressed pride in Lei’s accomplishment. She celebrated Lei’s achievement as a testament to the dance form’s growing presence and impact in China.
