By Indrawattie Natram

Dayvishanie Naipaul dances to her own tune

FOR decades the artistic forms of classical dances were performed intensively by trained artists in India. Years ago, dance performances were restricted mainly to royal courts, temples and the houses of wealthy people in India, however, Indian dance is now practised around the world and millions of people now have the chance to enjoy and learn more about classical dance and music.

Fortunately, although the Indians arrived 180 years ago in Guyana, the Indian culture is kept alive and is expressed in many ways through various stories and exhibitions outlining the life and labourious work of the Indian ancestors.

For years 18-year-old Dayvishanie Naipaul of Reliance Village on the Essequibo Coast has been performing Kathak, semi-classical, classical and ‘filmy’ songs, as her way of keeping the Indian tradition alive. She is no stranger to ‘Essequibians’ as she has performed at many cultural events in the Region. The leading local dancer and choreographer has mastered the art form through her exposure to dancing at the tender age of five. Interestingly, her skill has developed over the years through self-taught practices rather than formal training.

“I will say I am just blessed with dancing. Everything is just natural, from the emotions to the expressions, I love dancing and won’t trade it for anything,” Naipaul said.
The young dancer, who is currently employed at Massy Distribution and Trading, also invests the time to not only dance but also to share her skills through teachings.
This beautiful teenager said that whenever she performs on stage, she is often asked by the audience who trained her and whenever she responds that she is self-taught, most persons would be amazed.

“Nobody ever trained me, people ask me many times if I look at videos and take ideas, but no, I listen to my songs and learn the meaning of the lyrics and let my heart do the rest,” the dancer said.

Her interesting dance outfits are designed by her based on the song she would be performing. Naipaul said that she feels good being part of something that was inherited by her ancestors.

When asked what’s her future in dancing she said, she has a vision of forming her own dance group and although she loves dancing alone she would love to impart her knowledge to others who have a passion for dancing.

“I enjoy dancing alone because I can express my feelings more through my dance, and I’m recognised more,” Naipaul said.

The dancer believes in the adage: ” The purer our motives, the greater the courage and faith we will have to accomplish things way beyond the horizon of our imagination.”
For those who have a passion for dancing, she advises them not to be afraid and to live their dreams.

“Dance your heart out, you don’t have to dance to impress anyone, but dance to express yourself, dance for yourself and don’t be afraid to be who you are, don’t be afraid to show the world your talent,” the young dancer said.