Dancer Rudmila Priyonti Unveils First Book on Bharatanatyam
Young dancer Rudmila Priyonti Chowdhury has unveiled her first book on dance, titled Bharatanatyam, in Dhaka.
The book was unveiled on Friday (September 25) at Aloki Convention Centre in Tejgaon, Dhaka. Written in English, Bharatanatyam focuses on the fundamental aspects of the classical Indian dance form and marks Rudmila’s debut as an author.
Dancer, artistic director, dance researcher and cultural activist Lubna Marium was present at the event as a guest. Speaking on the occasion, she said, “For a young dancer in Bangladesh to write a book in English on the fundamentals of Bharatanatyam is a significant initiative for the country.”
Ekushey Padak-winning dancer Arthi Ahmed, Nova Ahmed, daughter of writer Humayun Ahmed, dancer Ojia Ahmed and physician Nayla Khan were also present at the event. Dancers, artists, writers, cultural activists and other prominent figures from the cultural community attended the programme.
The speakers discussed the importance of practising, researching and documenting classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam. They also noted that presenting the fundamentals of the dance form in English will create an opportunity for readers in Bangladesh and abroad to learn more about Bharatanatyam.
Rudmila Priyonti Chowdhury has been practising Bharatanatyam for the past 12 years. Alongside her dance practice, she has also been involved in studying and researching the art form. In 2022, she completed a diploma in dance from Kolpotoru.
Speaking about her first book, Rudmila said, “I have finally been able to publish my first book, and the feeling is truly wonderful. Several of my seniors supported me tremendously throughout this journey. I am sincerely grateful to all of them. I would especially like to express my gratitude to physician and dancer Nayla Khan for her support and guidance.”
Explaining her decision to publish the book in English, she said, “Most of the students at Kolpotoru are from English-medium backgrounds. Keeping that in mind, I planned to publish Bharatanatyam in English. I am also planning to publish the book in Bengali soon.”
The book is available for purchase through Rokomari.com and Jatra’s Facebook page, she added.
Guests and prominent members of the cultural community welcomed Rudmila’s initiative and wished her success in her future dance practice, research and writing.
