Composer: Dr. BalaMuraliKrishna
Ragam: Arabhi
Talam: Adi
Language: Sanskrit
Choreographer: Smt. Neha Parikh

A Pushpanjali is an introductory piece in a Bharatanatyam performance. It is a salutation to the lord of dance Nataraja, the Guru (teacher), the musicians, and the audience. Pushpanjali is made up of two words, “pushpa”, which means flower, as the dancer enters with flowers in her hands, and “anjali”, which is the folded hand gesture that shows respect. In this Pushpanjali, there will be a small portion which is in honor of lord Ganesha (elephant face Lord), the remover of all obstacles! Nithya prays to Lord Ganesha asking his blessings for a joy filled arangetram experience, and seeks the blessings from Guru, Musicians and Audience for a successful completion of her performance.

Nithya’s remarks:

I hope you enjoy this pushpanjali! My favorite part of is the entrance to the stage, and the geometry that the steps create. I always get excited when I practice this dance because I know it is the first time the audience will see me, and it is a rush of energy. Hope you feel the same! I am seeking the blessings of you all to perform my arangetram successfully!