A Conversation with a Classical Dancer from Kannur -angel susan john
As part of my English project, I had the opportunity to interview Ananya, a passionate and graceful classical dancer from Kannur, Kerala. Speaking to her was a wonderful experience that gave me a new appreciation for the dedication behind classical art forms. Ananya has been learning Bharatanatyam since the age of six and started Kuchipudi when she turned ten. She also enjoys performing semiclassical dance, which adds a creative twist to traditional styles. “It’s not just about steps,” she told me. “Classical dance is a form of storytelling. Every movement and expression has meaning.” Ananya performs regularly at school functions, temples, and cultural festivals. Her love for dance shines through, but she’s also honest about the challenges. When I asked her about the drawbacks, she shared, “Sometimes, it can be physically exhausting. The training is intense, and balancing it with studies can be stressful. Also, not everyone understands the effort behind classical forms—they just see th...