The Fading Colours of Indian Classical Dance

Text By: B R Vikram Kumar

Holi, the vibrant festival of colours, is a time of joy and celebration for Indians across the world. However, for Indian classical dancers, its significance is bittersweet. Behind the colourful façade of festivity lies a stark reality—the once-thriving world of Indian classical dance is gradually losing its vibrancy. The colours that once danced with elegance and grace are now fading.

One of the primary reasons for this decline is the lack of opportunities for Indian classical dancers. Despite years of rigorous training and unwavering dedication, many struggle to find platforms to showcase their art. The scarcity of performance opportunities and the limited scope for career growth have led to stagnation in the field. As a result, many talented dancers are forced to abandon their passion and pursue alternative careers.

Another major challenge is the issue of non-payment for performances. Under the guise of providing “exposure” or “experience,” many dancers are expected to perform without compensation. This not only demeans the value of their art but also makes it financially unsustainable for them to continue. The irony is that while influencers and celebrities command exorbitant fees for brief appearances, young and talented classical dancers are left with meagre remuneration for their meticulously crafted productions.

Furthermore, the lack of recognition from government cultural bodies remains a significant hurdle. Many dancers, despite their immense contributions to India’s rich cultural heritage, are overlooked when it comes to awards and institutional support. This lack of appreciation is disheartening and diminishes the value of their art form.

The consequences of these challenges are far-reaching. Some dancers feel compelled to compromise on the purity of their art, diluting its essence to appeal to broader audiences. Others are forced to leave the field entirely, seeking more financially viable careers. This loss of talent is a severe blow to Indian classical dance, an art form that is already struggling to stay relevant in today’s rapidly changing cultural landscape.

As we celebrate Holi, the festival of colours, let us not forget the fading colours of Indian classical dance. It is time we recognise the value of this ancient art form and the dedication of its practitioners. We must work towards creating more opportunities for classical dancers, ensuring fair compensation for their performances, and acknowledging their contributions to our cultural heritage. Only then can we revive the vibrancy of Indian classical dance and ensure its survival for generations to come.

“Due to a lack of funds and inadequate sponsorships from corporates, many NGOs are struggling to support the arts. Furthermore, several NGO directors and festival organizers are shouldering significant financial burdens, often dipping into their own pockets to keep their events afloat.”