Mothers whose passion did not fade with time

CHITRA, Jyothi, and Kancha-na—their mothers in their fifties proved that passion does not fade with time but grows deeper.

- IFRAH MUFTI @NewDethi

The dancer mothers with their guru Nisha Rani (second from left) | EXPRESS More than a debut: A determination to honour dreams

As young dancers stepped on the stage for their Arangetram (debut performance after completion of training) in the Karthiayani Auditorium in Mayur Vihar Phase 1, the showstopper was these three women who chose to challenge convention, balancing rigorous training with family responsibilities, careers, and the demands of daily life.

“Arangetram” is a Sanskrit term that means “to ascend the stage”. It marks a Bharatanatyam dancer’s ceremonial leap from student to solo performer and usually lasts two to three hours. It is the moment they first claim the stage entirely on their own, showcasing years of rigorous training.