Renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Apeksha Niranjan, who is currently on her Poland Spring Tour 2024, gets candid with
The Pioneer, sharing her cultural exchange moments in Poland, why was travelling there a liberating experience for her, and more.Subodhini Purohit
Apeksha Niranjan is a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer known for her exceptional skills, artistic depth, and captivating performances. She has gained recognition in the Bharatanatyam community for her unique style and contributions to the art form. Her dance transcends geographical boundaries, serving as a testament to the universal language of art. Apeksha Niranjan continues to push boundaries with her unique style and captivating performances, representing India on various global platforms. She earned the title of “queen of expressions” too.
Embarking on her fifth performance tour in Poland, she weaved together her heritage and artistic passion. She shares her connection and cultural exchange moments in Poland. “My connection to Poland is rooted in my heritage, as my grandmother was Polish. This bond has drawn me to perform in Poland multiple times, and I’m excited to say this will mark my fifth performance there. The Polish audience has always welcomed me with open arms, showing great appreciation for innovative art forms. This time around, I’m introducing a fresh choreography and version of my performance. In a groundbreaking collaboration, I’m joining forces with a local Polish musician to blend Bharatanatyam with Polish folk music—a fusion that, to my knowledge, is being attempted for the first time.”
Poland, for obvious reasons, holds a unique place in her heart, not only because her grandmother, friends, and relatives live there but also because they affectionately refer to her as the “granddaughter of Poland.” “This endears me even more to the country. Performing there evokes a distinct sense of emotion within me, a feeling that’s heightened by the presence of my loved ones. The cultural richness of Poland resonates with that of India, creating a shared understanding of values and traditions. This cultural connection makes performing in Poland an experience that’s deeply special, akin to the warmth of performing in India.”
The tour spans various cities and venues, each with its own unique charm and requirements. For the dancing diva, it’s been a pleasure performing in locations like Zabkowice and even in front of a church. “My upcoming performance in Sobótka promises a distinct atmosphere. One of the organisers, whose grandmother sought refuge in India 80 years ago, has shared her cultural heritage with me, enriching my experience. This cultural exchange extends to her granddaughter as well. As I travel from city to city, I’m not just performing; I’m engaging in a cultural dialogue through various recitals. Each performance is an opportunity to connect with the past and present, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and artistic expression.” Every moment on stage is memorable for an artist, but the first dance always remains memorable. She recalls, “The first time I took the stage in Poland, my nerves were palpable. It was a moment of truth, facing a Polish audience with anticipation, wondering how they would receive me. I had painstakingly prepared a traditional Indian classical dance, Bharatanatyam, to present to them. Learning that the auditorium was filled to capacity brought me immense joy, yet it was mingled with a touch of anxiety. The applause that erupted at the conclusion of my performance was nothing short of enchanting. Audience members expressed their admiration for my dance; some even approached to touch my feet in reverence. I humbly declined, but they insisted, saying they saw a divine presence in me. These instances are cherished memories, marking my debut performance in Poland as an unforgettable one.”
“This aspect of performance is particularly poignant for my tour in Poland, as it underscores the profound truth that even without sight, one can express a world of feelings through their eyes. It’s a theme that resonates universally, allowing everyone to connect with the depth of these expressions.”
