Why
Training in classical dance is an important qualification
for Indian Heroines? |
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Ramaa
Chennai
behindw@behindwoods.com
Indian
movies began their journey as an extension of the other
modes of mass entertainment like plays, discourses and
other narrative traditions. Initially, films were based
on mythological figures. We all know that exaggeration
is the best form of fantasy and so we had ambitious
demons slain by godly figures to rescue damsels in distress. |
Music
was an inseparable part of movies and we have examples
of over 20 songs in one film. When music is so central,
dance cannot be far behind. Therefore, dance was also
an important element of historical and mythological
films and there were at least two or more songs with
dances. Naturally, talented women artistes shone in
these sequences. Thus, the tradition of actresses
in cinema with great dancing abilities was established.
While there were actresses who could make a gripping
performance through sheer emotive ability or rousing
dialogues, it was the dancer-actresses who stole the
march over others. T.R. Rajakumari could safely be
counted as the first such actress. Then there is a
long line including Bhanumathi, Vyjayanthimala, Padmini,
Waheeda Rahman, Hema Malini, Asha Parekh, Rekha, Jayaprada,
Revathy, Shobana and so on. The names reveal that
even in Hindi only trained dancers were successful
as heroines. Hema was even called the ultimate dream
girl.
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How does dance enhance performance? Why are these actresses
such a huge success? The reason is not far to seek.
Classical dance imparts a rigorous approach in a disciplined
manner. This is translated as commitment and strict
adherence to rules at work. This makes the producers
and the directors happy as it is easier to get work
done. The art of dance is based on internalizing different
emotions. Therefore, trained dancers can understand
the nuances of the character better and bring it out
easily in their portrayal. The director can extract
the right shade of emotion by narrating the setting.
He does not have to act out the part and teach. Padmini,
Waheeda and Hema have acted in such a varied palette
of characters that their success has been built on their
versatility. They have not remained mere dancers but
have been acknowledged as complete actresses. Thanks
is due in no small measure to their training in dance.
Can we then conclude that training in classical dance
ensures success? Not at all for there are several examples
of actresses who have been successful without formal
training. Sridevi, Smitha Patil, Karishma Kapoor are
some of the examples. They were successful because of
their effortless ability in portraying the characters.
Therefore,
acting ability and dedication are the primary ingredients
for the journey in filmdom but dance can be the passport
to make the flight easier.
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More Movie Article :
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we have some thrillers please?
Rajini
and Vijayakanth entering politics
Do
our films need a dress code?
Changing
face of Hindi cinema
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