Bharatanatyam is a mesmerizing classical dance form that holds a captivating blend of grace, rhythm, and storytelling. Originating from the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India, this ancient art has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. With its profound cultural significance and deep-rooted spirituality, Bharatanatyam has enthralled audiences around the world.

In the essence of Bharatanatyam, we witness a beautiful amalgamation of expressive movements, intricate footwork, and eloquent hand gestures known as mudras. The dancers, often adorned in vibrant costumes and intricate jewelry, convey tales of mythology, devotion, and love through their eloquent expressions, graceful postures, and synchronized rhythms.

Each performance begins with the Alarippu, an invocatory piece that sets the rhythm and introduces the artist's impeccable footwork. As the dance progresses, we are immersed in the enchanting compositions of Varnam, Padam, Javali, and Tillana, each showcasing a unique narrative and emotional depth. From portraying mythological characters like Krishna and Rama to depicting stories of love, longing, and spiritual devotion, Bharatanatyam offers a plethora of emotions and experiences.

The dance form showcases the mastery of intricate footwork, with the rhythmic patterns resonating with the beats of traditional Carnatic music. The music, accompanied by melodic instruments such as the veena, mridangam, and violin, provides a melodious backdrop that complements the dance and enhances its expressive power.

Bharatanatyam not only encapsulates the technical prowess of the dancer but also requires a deep understanding of Indian mythology, literature, and cultural traditions. Through the intricate movements, the dancer conveys the emotions of joy, sorrow, anger, and compassion, leaving the audience spellbound.

Pragnya is the first and only daughter of Pavani and Kishore Seelam. Growing up with a passion for dance, her Bharatanatyam journey started in 2016 with guru Prashanthini Shekhar. She is an upbeat and enthusiastic dancer at the age of 15. As an addition to Bharatanatyam, Pragnya also enjoys Bollywood style dancing. In her free time, she likes to spend her time reading books, listening to music, hanging out with her younger brother Praneeth and playing the piano. With all these parts of her life, school is also another important one. Not only does she put great effort into dance but also into her studies.

Pragnya is currently sophomore at Hickory Ridge High School. She is a hardworking and determined student who is constantly putting in effort to learn new things at school. She is a member of the international Thespian Society which honors student achievement in theater and supports theater educators. She is also a member of HOSA, whose mission is empower future healthcare professionals to become leaders in the global health community and a part of Red Cross which is the largest humanitarian network in the world.

She currently enjoys volunteering as part of the National BETA Organization which promotes ideals of academic achievement, character, leadership and service among students.

In the future, Pragnya would like to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatrician while continuing to learn Bharatanatyam.