Art is her soul, Bharatanatyam is her heart, and karate is her mind. She started Bharatanatyam when she was five-and-a-half and karate at six. These activities have made her stronger and better in many ways. However, art gives her a completely different feeling. She was inspired by her elder brother, who was always interested in pursuing co-curricular activities, and that influenced her. Meet Saanvita Jha of Class VI studying at Apeejay School, Kharghar.
In an impromptu interview, she shares how earning a black belt influenced her approach to dance and painting.
As a dancer, how do you express emotion differently through movement compared to through acrylic painting or sketching?
In Bharatanatyam, the eyes are the most expressive part, and the eyebrows too. They can tell an entire story. Classical dance is not just another art form; it requires devotion. Through movement, expressions come alive on stage. In painting, I mostly paint Gods and Goddesses. I carefully choose which colours suit each deity best. Through colours and details, I express my feelings differently than I do in dance.
How has earning your black belt influenced your approach to dance and painting?
Earning my black belt and winning a gold medal at the state level has given me confidence and discipline. Karate has strengthened my mindset and helped me approach both dance and art with greater focus and dedication. I feel that karate has given me the discipline to create art with devotion and consistency.
Which of the three makes you feel most like yourself, and why?
Painting makes me feel most like myself; I sense a deep feeling of devotion. I feel as if God is within me. It feels like sacred art that comes straight from the heart.
How do you manage your time?
I categorise them based on time. When you wear your ghungroos or take a stance in karate, you know you are going to feel tired. So I set a target to paint for at least ten minutes every day. It makes me feel guilt-free and helps me stay efficient in dance and karate as well.
If you could combine karate, dance, and art into one project, what would it look like?
I would name the artwork ‘Strength in Motion’. It would show a dancer performing a bhramari, which is a spin in Bharatanatyam, along with a girl performing karate and another girl painting.
How does the school support your interests – karate, Bharatanatyam, and art?
I have received a lot of support in painting, including many opportunities to participate in competitions. In Bharatanatyam, my dance teacher has always guided and encouraged me. In karate, my sports teacher supported me once he learnt about my achievements. I am blessed with excellent teachers who have always supported me.