Shangita enjoys collaborating with peers Narendran (right) and Arun as they grow older together, sharing the experience and wisdom of the years. - Photos: Shangita Namasivayam
At 60, Shangita Namasivayam continues to mesmerise audiences with the grace and discipline of bharatanatyam, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s passion.
Based in Kuala Lumpur, she is not just a dedicated dancer but also a passionate teacher, shaping the next generation of performers with her wealth of experience and deep connection to this classical Indian art form.
For Shangita, the founder director of Kalpana Dance Theatre (KDT) here in KL, dance is more than just movement – it is an expression of creativity, emotion and identity.
Her motivation to continue performing, teaching and organising dance events stems from the joy of sharing this art form with others.
“Watching my students grow, discovering their love for dance, and overcoming challenges brings me fulfilment and a sense of purpose. It is the constant learning, the connection with others, and the ability to keep pushing my boundaries which keep me inspired, no matter my age.
“My mentor, Shrimati Rukmini Devi Arundale (founder of the Kalakshetra Foundation), once said that teachers at Kalakshetra would never retire. She believed that as an artiste grows older, they become more mature, and their experience only deepens in value – much like fine wine,” Shangita says.
Even the physical challenges that come with age – including multiple knee surgeries for Shangita – have not deterred her spirit. Shangita’s love for dance fuels her energy, allowing her to push beyond limitations.
“Age is just a number,” she insists, attributing her stamina to disciplined practice, regular exercise and mindful living.
She reasons that not many people are fortunate enough to do what they truly love in life. “I feel incredibly blessed to have grown up in a family that prioritised education while wholeheartedly supporting my passion for the arts. My parents always encouraged my creative pursuits, and I’m especially grateful to have a husband who has never once questioned or limited my journey – no matter where in the world my dancing takes me.”
Shangita (right) with her student Tvesa whose performance celebrates the beauty and intricacies of solo dance.
Blending tradition with innovation
Shangita’s journey has been shaped by the contrasting influences of two dance legends. At Kalakshetra, she was instilled with the values of discipline, tradition, and aesthetic refinement under the guidance of Rukmini.
However, her exposure to the legendary dancer Chandralekha, in her late teens transformed her perspective. Chandralekha encouraged her to challenge conventions, embrace vulnerability and explore movement beyond the traditional forms of bharatanatyam.
This balance between tradition and innovation defines Shangita’s teaching today, as she blends the rich heritage of classical dance with fresh perspectives that resonate with modern audiences.
Teaching has been an integral part of Shangita’s life since the age of 21, and she finds great joy in passing down her knowledge to younger generations. Many of her students have been with her since childhood, and she now teaches the daughters of her former students – a testament to her lasting influence.
“I pass these valuable lessons on to my students, blending tradition with fresh, new perspectives while always respecting the roots of the art form. Teaching is a passion I hold dear, and I treasure my students deeply. Many have been with me since they were four or five, and I am constantly amazed by the brilliance of this new generation.
They think differently, and bring a new energy to the table. My training was in the traditional Guru-shishya system, where the student is seen but never heard. Yet, today, I find myself learning just as much from my students as they do from me!”
Dance knows no age
One of Shangita’s greatest passions is encouraging people, especially senior citizens, to embrace movement, regardless of age. She believes that dance is not just about performance but also about self-expression, flexibility and mental well-being. She has witnessed firsthand how mature students, who once believed they were too old to start dancing, have found immense joy and fulfilment in finally pursuing their long-held passion.
“Age should never be a barrier to doing what you love,” she emphasises. “Start small and focus on the joy of movement rather than perfection.”
Whether it’s bharatanatyam, yoga, or any other form of physical activity, Shangita urges seniors to take that first step, knowing that the rewards go far beyond the physical benefits.
“The body, though it changes, still craves movement, expression and challenge.
“Movement can improve flexibility, strength and balance, and it can have an incredible impact on mental well-being.
“Don’t be afraid to try something new; the key is consistency. Embrace the process, and you’ll discover that your passion and ability to engage with life will only grow with time. Just go for it!”
One of Shangita’s greatest passions is encouraging people, especially senior citizens, to embrace movement, regardless of age.Collaborating across generations
Throughout her career, Shangita has worked with renowned gurus and choreographers, enriching her artistic expression and refining her teaching philosophy.
These collaborations have allowed her students to gain exposure to diverse perspectives while reinforcing the value of mutual respect and lifelong learning.
At her KDT dance school, she regularly invites esteemed artists to mentor her students, ensuring that the legacy of bharatanatyam continues to thrive in Malaysia.
On April 19, KDT will present its 27th production, Sadhana – A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Dedication, a solo bharatanatyam recital by Tvesa Poobun, one of Shangita’s students.
This performance pays homage to bharatanatyam’s origins as a solo art form, offering young dancers an opportunity to explore its depth and intricacies.
Featuring original choreographies by PT Narendran, the recital will be accompanied by a live orchestra led by renowned Carnatic vocalist Dr OS Arun, alongside accomplished musicians Darmen Krisnan (mridangam), Sriram Seshadri (violin) and Jayalakshmi Shekar (veena).
Shangita says: “Sadhana will explore the roots of bharatanatyam, originally practised as a solo art form before evolving to include group performances. Tvesa’s performance celebrates the beauty and intricacies of solo dance.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing the culmination of all the hard work and dedication of my student and collaborators. There’s something magical about watching the pieces come together after months of rehearsals.”
On April 20, Arun will deliver a musical extravaganza titled Rendezvous with OS Arun, supported by the Alaka Foundation. The maestro will showcase his expertise across a range of musical genres, including Carnatic music, ghazals, bhajans and popular hits.
Both presentations are free, in tandem with artistic director Shangita’s vision to make bharatanatyam and the arts more accessible to local audiences, and provide invaluable opportunities for local dancers.
“KDT has had the privilege of presenting several influential figures from the Indian dance community here in Malaysia.
“What’s truly wonderful is that our collaborations extend beyond a single encounter – they continue to evolve, deepening our relationships and expanding our collective knowledge.
“This ongoing partnership benefits not only our students, who get the chance to work with and learn from these great gurus, but also our audiences in Malaysia, who have the opportunity to witness and experience renowned Indian artists they may have heard of but never seen live.”
As she prepares for these performances, Shangita remains as passionate and dedicated as ever. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, love for one’s craft, and the boundless energy that comes from doing what one truly enjoys.
For Shangita, dance is not just an art – it is a way of life. And as long as her spirit moves, she will continue to inspire, teach and dance through the years.
Sadhana – A Journey of Self-Discovery will be staged on April 19 at 7.01pm at the Shantanand Auditorium, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. Rendezvous with OS Arun takes place the following day at 6pm. Both performances are free.
