‘Music is timeless,’ says Arun, who says that he is still ‘learning every day’. - Photos: Shangita Namasivayam
Chennai-based bharatanatyam dancer, teacher and choreographer PT Narendran has spent decades perfecting his craft. Now at 57, he continues to perform, teach and inspire, proving that passion and dedication transcend age.
Narendran, who trained at the Kalakshetra Foundation, credits his enduring connection to bharatanatyam to a mindset of continuous learning. “In my younger years, it was all about mastering the technique, building endurance and executing movements with precision,” he shares. “Now, I focus more on depth and storytelling. Age has given me a richer perspective.”
For Narendran, dance is not just a performance art but a way of life. His rigorous training has helped him maintain physical and mental resilience over the years. “Discipline is key. I have adapted my practice to align with my body’s evolving capabilities, focusing on mindful movement and expression rather than just physical strength,” he explains.
For Narendran, dance is not just a performance art, but a way of life. — Photos: SHANGITA NAMASIVAYAM
As a teacher, he finds immense fulfilment in passing on the traditions of bharatanatyam to the next generation. “I don’t set out to inspire, but I believe that by sharing my journey, students can find their own motivation. True inspiration comes from within,” he says.
Despite the challenges that come with growing older, Narendran continues to embrace every opportunity, including international performances. The upcoming shows organised by Kalpana Dance Theatre (KDT) in Kuala Lumpur, are a case in point. “Performing abroad has always been positive for me. It’s a chance to share our cultural heritage and engage with diverse audiences,” he notes.
“Institutions like KDT consistently organise high-quality programmes that celebrate the beauty of bharatanatyam. This time, Tvesa Poobun is presenting a solo recital,” shares Narendran, who choreographed the performances and will also be the nattuvangist (providing rhythmic guidance and melodic support) for the recital.
“Having performed in many of KDT’s productions, Tvesa is an experienced and graceful dancer, and it brings me great joy to work with such a dedicated artist like her, whether in my home country or internationally.”
He says: “As I grow older, I find that my experience in the art only deepens, making performances even more fulfilling. With maturity comes a greater understanding of the art’s nuances. Every performance is an opportunity to connect and share, making each one a truly rewarding journey.”
For Narendran, dance is not just a performance art, but a way of life. — Photos: SHANGITA NAMASIVAYAM
Enduring success
For over four decades, Dr OS Arun has been a beacon of South Indian classical music, captivating audiences worldwide with his soulful voice and deep-rooted devotion to Carnatic traditions. At 59, the musician from Chennai continues to push artistic boundaries, proving that age is no obstacle in the world of performing arts.
“Music is timeless,” he says. “As we grow, we evolve. In my earlier days, I was ambitious, seeking fame and fortune. But over the years, learning has become the most prominent part of my journey. I’m still learning every day.”
His ability to adapt while staying true to the classical form has been key to his enduring success. Arun incorporates elements from various genres without diluting the essence of Carnatic music, making his performances accessible to diverse audiences.
His signature style – marked by precise tonal variations and meaningful pauses – draws in listeners of all ages.
Beyond performance, Arun is deeply involved in using music as a tool for healing and community service through his non-profit initiative, the Aalapana Foundation in India.
“Music has given me so much, and I believe it’s my duty to give back,” he shares. Through his Ratna Sangamam programme, he performs at old folks homes, schools for the underprivileged, and institutions for children with disabilities. “The joy on their faces during a performance is something that cannot be expressed – only experienced.”
Despite the physical demands of global touring – travelling to and settling in a different country with a different climate, while getting ready for a series of shows – Arun finds performing more exhilarating than exhausting.
“Earlier this year, I was on a concert tour in the United States; we went to San Diego, Dallas, Maryland, Phoenix, Tampa and then off to Toronto in Canada. Although these days, I must admit there is always some anxiety when I am facing new audiences, I make it a point to try and explain the music. I feel that this enhances both the quality of the performance and the understanding of the music from the audience’s perspective. Having said, that, the stage, the audience, the ambience – all of it charges me up instantly,” he says.
“Music is a stress-reliever; when you sing, everything else fades away. It is the beautiful thing that happens – that is the magic of music.”
Arun’s upcoming concerts in Malaysia this month reflect his philosophy of inclusivity. On April 19, he will perform for a solo dance presentation titled Sadhana – A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Dedication, featuring newly choreographed pieces. The following night, Rendezvous with OS Arun will offer a vibrant mix of classical compositions and audience-friendly selections.
“Music is universal,” he explains. “I want everyone – whether a connoisseur or a layperson – to feel connected to it.”
