Arangetram on Bharathi Poetry

Reimagining Bharathi: A Dance Tribute Through Bharatanatyam

This unique Bharatanatyam production, choreographed by Kavitha Laxmi, is a heartfelt tribute to the timeless poetry of Subramania Bharathiyar—the revolutionary poet whose words continue to resonate with passion, pride, and power.

Through expressive movement and rhythm, this performance seeks to revisit Bharathiyar’s writings—not merely as poetry, but as lived experience. His verses move seamlessly between the profound and the everyday, from spiritual insight to fiery calls for justice. He wrote with equal ease about the beauty of nature, the strength of women, the value of freedom, and the soul of the common people.

Bharathi’s poems include everything from philosophical reflections to songs inspired by the rustic rhythms of a cart driver's chant. He championed social reform, celebrated womanhood, and envisioned a world of equality and compassion. His work was bold, his voice fearless—and this production attempts to capture that same spirit through the classical language of Bharatanatyam.

Kavitha Laxmi’s choreography blends traditional form with contemporary relevance, using Bharatanatyam to echo Bharathi’s boldness, clarity, and love for Tamil and humanity. Each piece is an offering—of rhythm, emotion, and tribute—to the poet who taught us to dream, to question, and to rise.