Under the inspiring direction of Guru Ritwika Ghosh, the Vilasaka Dance Academy celebrated its highly anticipated yearly concert, Rangapravesham, with elegance, grandeur, and a touching sense of inclusivity. The afternoon, which took place at Niranjan Sadan Jadavpur on March 30, 2025, was a celebration of community and compassion in addition to paying homage to the art of Bharatanatyam.

Established in 2008 by the esteemed Guru Ritwika Ghosh, recipient of the Yuva Kala Bharathi award, Vilasaka has continuously fostered and empowered young dancers via rigorous instruction and creative expression. Ritwika has performed nationally and internationally as an embelished artist of Doordarshan, ICCR, and Spicmacay. She was trained by renowned mentors such as Padma Bhushan Guru Kalanidhi Narayanan and Kalaimamani Jayanthi Subramaniam.

The involvement of students from Sri Sarada Ramakrishna Ashram, Hotor—an orphanage that houses gifted girls whose dreams were given wings under Ritwika’s tutelage—was what set Rangapravesham 2025 apart. A turning point in Ritwika’s vision to make classical dance accessible to the poor was reached when they performed at the Saraswati Vandana, which was met with tears and thunderous applause.

From the stirring Natesha Kauthuvam and Bho Shambho to the heartfelt Krishna Nee Begane and Chaliye Kunjanamo, performed by Vilasaka’s students, the concert showcased a diverse array of classical compositions. The audience was mesmerised by Bhumi Mangalam, a poetic invocation for world peace, which marked the event’s conclusion.

Renowned educationist and classical dancer Mrs. Chitralekha Bhaskar graced the occasion as Chief Guest, and her motivational speech and presence gave the afternoon’s festivities elegance and significance.

Guru Ritwika Ghosh once again demonstrated that dance is more than just movement. It is a message of hope and unity through Rangapravesham 2025, reinforcing her dedication to using art for social and spiritual advancement.

Priyanka Dutta