After months of training, 50 dedicated students of the Naatya Arts Center Foundation danced and sang their hearts out and put on truly impressive performances during the school’s annual showcase “Samarpan 2026” at the end of May.
The Aleeze Convention Center was packed to the brim with spectators of all ages, including many whole families, enjoying Bharatanatyam – one of the oldest classical dance forms of India. Bharatanatyam combines dance, music, expressions and storytelling. Some performances tell stories from Hindu mythology or explore spiritual or moral themes.
The dancers, all between the ages of 5 and 18, performed gracefully and controlled even the smallest details – intricate poses, facial expressions and hand gestures. They wore vibrant traditional costumes, jewellery and make-up. The students trained with determination, then took their chance to shine on stage! During the evening, an announcement was also made that dancer Thrisha Nankani placed second in the Kala Manjari international performing arts competition.
The Naatya Arts Center Foundation is led by Teacher Aparna Samaga Lulla, a classically trained Bharatanatyam dancer with decades of experience. She also joined students on stage for some performances and has been keeping this rich cultural tradition alive with the younger generation in St. Maarten for more than 15 years.
