Many people dedicate themselves to their work, but few truly immerse themselves in their passion. Dr. Sapna Naik, a celebrated Bharatanatyam lecturer, is one such individual whose unwavering devotion to the classical dance form has shaped her entire life. Her journey, from a young girl in Vasco-da-Gama to becoming one of the most esteemed Bharatanatyam scholars in Goa, is a testament to perseverance, dedication, and a profound love for dance.
A Passion Awakened Early
Dr. Sapna’s introduction to dance came at a young age. Growing up in Vasco-da-Gama, her aunt encouraged her to participate in cultural competitions, where she quickly gained recognition and began winning first prizes. Her natural talent did not go unnoticed, and during one such event, a prominent musician noted her abilities and recommended that her father enroll her in formal dance training. This marked the beginning of a transformative journey in 1991 that would shape Dr. Sapna’s future.
The Road to Formal Training
From the moment she began her formal training, Dr. Sapna was steadfast in her commitment to Bharatanatyam. With the full support of her family, she balanced her education with her dance practice, sometimes struggling to manage both, but never letting go of her passion. Her dedication was rewarded when she received a scholarship in dance, which led her to pursue a Master’s in Performing Arts from Bangalore University. Even while away from home, Dr. Sapna remained deeply connected to her craft, dedicating her weekends to learning Abhinaya under the guidance of Smt. Sumana Nagesh in Bangalore.
Academic Excellence Meets Artistic Mastery
While a Master’s degree in Performing Arts would be enough for many, Dr. Sapna’s journey did not stop there. She believed that true mastery in dance required both practical experience and deep theoretical knowledge. In 2017, she cleared the National Eligibility Test (NET) Examination, a significant academic achievement. Then, in 2023, Dr. Sapna achieved a remarkable milestone—she became the first person from Goa to earn a Doctorate of Philosophy in Performing Arts (Dance).
This academic achievement was not merely a personal triumph but a culmination of years of research, which Dr. Sapna believes enhanced her understanding of dance. She credits her research with allowing her to combine her theoretical knowledge with her years of practical experience, resulting in a refined mastery of Bharatanatyam that continues to inspire her students and audiences.
A Renowned Lecturer and Mentor
Today, Dr. Sapna serves as a distinguished Bharatanatyam lecturer at Kala Academy Goa. Throughout an eleven-year program, she guides her students through a comprehensive curriculum, which spans the Foundation level to Parangat. Dr. Sapna believes in the importance of a Guru-Shishya relationship, where the teacher imparts not only technical skills but also the discipline and cultural richness inherent in the art form. She takes pride in understanding the mental and physical needs of her students, ensuring that each one receives personalized attention.
Spreading the Art of Bharatanatyam Through Nupur Dance Academy
Dr. Sapna’s commitment to preserving and promoting Bharatanatyam goes beyond teaching at Kala Academy. She is also the founder and director of Nupur Dance Academy in Ponda, which has been her lifelong dream. Through this academy, she strives to make Bharatanatyam accessible to people across Goa. For Dr. Sapna, teaching Bharatanatyam is not just about perfecting the dance form; it is also about imparting its cultural and traditional values. She incorporates stories from Indian mythology, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, to teach her students not just dance, but also the rich history and philosophies behind the art form.
Dr. Sapna emphasizes the importance of individualized attention, acknowledging that every student is unique. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, she tailors her approach to bring out the best in each dancer, ensuring they not only master the technique but also connect deeply with the dance’s emotional and cultural aspects.
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Sapna’s contributions to Bharatanatyam have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Yuva Srujan Puraskar. This award, which was first introduced in 2008, is presented annually by the Directorate of Art and Culture of the Government of Goa, recognizes emerging artists for their outstanding contributions to Goan art and culture. Dr. Sapna has been honored with this award for her exceptional talent and commitment to promoting Bharatanatyam.
Reflecting on this achievement, Dr. Sapna expresses deep gratitude, noting that receiving the Yuva Srujan Puraskar instilled in her a sense of responsibility and renewed energy to continue her work. She explains that the honor fuels her passion, encouraging her to work harder and elevate her art form further.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Sapna has ambitious plans for the future of Bharatanatyam. She hopes to elevate the art form, making it more accessible and understandable to a wider audience. Her dream is to start a Gurukulam, a traditional Indian educational system where students live with their guru and learn through immersive workshops and activities. In this way, Dr. Sapna envisions an environment where dance is not just taught, but experienced in its fullest sense—where students can absorb both the technical and spiritual aspects of Bharatanatyam.
Dr. Sapna’s commitment to Bharatanatyam is evident in her continuous efforts to promote the dance form through performances, workshops, and other initiatives. She remains motivated by the belief that dance has the power to transform lives and that every individual deserves the opportunity to engage with its beauty.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Dancers
For those aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Dr. Sapna offers invaluable advice. She points out that when she began dancing, Bharatanatyam was not seen as a viable career option—a mindset that persists today. However, Dr. Sapna firmly believes that with clear goals, dedication, and consistent practice, anyone can succeed in the field. She encourages aspiring dancers to focus not only on their technique but also on developing a deep understanding of the cultural and philosophical aspects of Bharatanatyam.
Dr. Sapna also emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of Bharatanatyam, noting that dancers can pursue careers in costume design, makeup artistry, photography, singing, research, criticism, choreography, and more. The dance form, she believes, opens up a world of career possibilities for those who are passionate and committed.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. Sapna’s journey is one of dedication, passion, and remarkable achievement. Her life’s work has not only shaped her as a dancer and educator but also made a lasting impact on the world of Bharatanatyam in Goa and beyond. Her story is a source of inspiration for all aspiring artists, particularly women in dance, who are seeking to make their mark in an industry that is still emerging as a viable career path. Through her determination, Dr. Sapna has shown that with unwavering commitment, anyone can reach the highest levels of excellence in their craft.
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