At just 15 years old, Mahi Ramnarain has achieved a significant milestone in the Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam, completing her Arangetram at the Capital Hotel in Zimbali on April 25, 2026. This accomplishment not only marked the culmination of years of training but also served as a tribute to her late maternal grandmother, whom she affectionately calls her Nani. According to Mahi, her Nani had always aspired to be a dancer but never had the opportunity to pursue that dream.
Mahi's journey in Bharatanatyam began when she was nine years old, under the guidance of her teacher, Shrimathi Sundharie Ramesh, at the Kumari Sundharie Dance Institute. Over the years, Mahi developed her technique, expression, and musicality, learning the intricacies of the dance form and the stories behind the performances. Ramesh, who has now retired from active teaching after 36 years, considers Mahi her 33rd and final Bharatanatyam graduate, making the occasion even more special for both of them.
The Arangetram performance, which lasted three and a half hours, was accompanied by live musicians and featured a range of devotional pieces and technically demanding sequences, with Mahi changing costumes five times throughout the show. Despite facing a setback two months prior to the performance, when a knee injury left her on crutches for six weeks, Mahi persevered and managed to recover in time, thanks to the support of her guru, family, and accompanying musicians.
Mahi's school, Reddam House Ballito, played a significant role in supporting her during this period, with her teachers understanding and accommodating her circumstances. Catherine Raw of Reddam House Ballito highlighted the school's commitment to prioritizing its students' needs and supporting their creative, artistic, and cultural pursuits. Mahi's achievement is a testament to her hard work, determination, and the support system that enabled her to balance her academic responsibilities with her passion for dance.
For Mahi, Bharatanatyam is not just a dance form but a deeply personal connection to her family and heritage. Through her training, she has gained a more profound understanding of the traditions passed down through generations and hopes to one day perform in India as part of a South African group of dancers and musicians. Mahi also aspires to share her knowledge with other students, recognizing that learning is a continuous process.
Shrimathi Sundharie Ramesh reflected on the bond she shared with Mahi, who grew not only as a dancer but also as a graceful and compassionate young woman under her guidance. Ramesh presented Mahi with a certificate from the institute, recognizing her successful completion of the Arangetram. This milestone marks not only Mahi's achievement but also Ramesh's legacy as a dedicated teacher.
As Mahi looks to the future, she is determined to continue growing and exploring the depths of Bharatanatyam, recognizing that there is always more to learn and discover in this rich and complex art form. With her Arangetram now complete, Mahi is poised to take on new challenges and share her passion for Bharatanatyam with others, both locally and internationally.
Key points
- Mahi Ramnarain, 15, completes her Bharatanatyam Arangetram, honouring her late grandmother's dream.
- The performance marked the culmination of years of training and was a testament to Mahi's hard work and determination.
- Mahi's achievement is also a tribute to her teacher, Shrimathi Sundharie Ramesh, who has now retired from active teaching after 36 years.
