Bharatanatyam is one of the foremost classical art forms that reflects the culture and core values of the Tamil people. The interest shown by our younger generation in learning this traditional art form, rooted in the Ananda Tandavam and Rudra Tandavam of Lord Shiva, ensures the preservation and continuity of our art and cultural heritage, said the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
The Bharatanatyam performance of Ms. Lakshmika Thissakaran, a student of Mrs. Sridevi Kannathasan, Director of the Ponnalai Chandra Bharatha Gallery, and a Grade 11 student of Chulipuram Victoria College, was held on Saturday 07 February 2026 afternoon, at the Thiruvalluvar Cultural Center, Jaffna.
The Governor made the above remarks while attending the event as the chief guest and delivering the keynote address. The programme was chaired by K. Chanthirabalan, former Deputy Director of Education (Planning) of the Valikamam Zonal Education Office.
He further stated that he was well acquainted with the family background of Ms. Lakshmika Thissakaran, a student of Victoria College, Chulipuram. Coming from a family deeply inclined towards the arts, it was commendable that she had pursued this art form with disciplined dedication alongside her academic studies and was now presenting her performance.
He further remarked that Ms. Lakshmika’s guru, Mrs. Sridevi Kannathasan, is an accomplished artist whose dance productions are consistently of a very high standard. He also noted that Lakshmika’s father is an able administrator. Having trained under such a distinguished guru, Lakshmika’s performance on this occasion had gone beyond the scope of a traditional arangetram, evoking the grace and depth of a seasoned artiste.
Referring to the Puranas, he said that when Lord Shiva is in a state of bliss, He performs the Ananda Tandavam, and when in a state of fury, He performs the Rudra Tandavam. Bharatanatyam, he explained, is rooted in these divine dance forms centered on Lord Shiva. It is heartening to see our children continuing and preserving such a sacred and divine art tradition.
He further stated that the Bharatanatyam reading supplement published by the Maharagama National Institute of Education is a valuable resource for students studying Bharatanatyam in Sri Lanka, as it helps broaden their learning experiences. He encouraged students to absorb the contents of this publication and strive to achieve even greater heights in the field.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including the Chairman of the Sivabhoomi Foundation, Senchotselvar Kalanithi Aru. Thirumurugan; retired lecturer of the Kopay Teachers’ College, Mrs. Shanthini Sivanesan; as well as clergymen, scholars, artists, and members of the general public.
