Watch Aranketram

The movie Aranketram is a Tamil-language drama film that centers around the world of Bharatanatyam, a traditional Indian classical dance form. Aranketram, which directly translates to "ascending the stage," follows the journey of two prodigious dancers, Subhiksha and Sathya, who aspire to become Bharatanatyam performers. Subhiksha belongs to a family of accomplished Bharatanatyam dancers, and her mother is her guru. Her family's legacy inspires her, and she is determined to uphold their name while also making a name for herself. Sathya, on the other hand, is a rebellious man who did not have the same upbringing as Subhiksha. However, his love for Bharatanatyam and the desire to break stereotypes pushes him to pursue the art form.

The plot of Aranketram revolves around the two dancers' attempt to prepare for their Arangetram, a debut performance that marks the culmination of years of rigorous training. Their journey is not without its challenges, and both Subhiksha and Sathya must overcome personal and professional obstacles to reach their goal.

Throughout the movie, the audience is treated to several soul-stirring Bharatanatyam performances that showcase the dancers' skill and dedication. The movie also touches upon themes of gender bias, societal norms, and the pressure to adhere to cultural traditions.

One of the movie's strengths is its portrayal of the Bharatanatyam community, which is often deeply traditional and hierarchical. Aranketram underscores the importance of respecting tradition while also questioning norms that hold back progress. The movie is a tribute to the art form and its practitioners, as well as a call for change within the Bharatanatyam community.

The performances in the movie are captivating, and the music and dance sequences are beautifully shot. The movie also features strong performances by the lead actors, who bring depth and nuance to their characters. Subhiksha, played by Viji Chandrasekhar, embodies grace and elegance, while Sathya, played by Rajkumar Bharathi, portrays a charming and rebellious spirit.

The movie's pacing, however, can be slow at times, and some scenes may drag on for longer than necessary. The movie's focus on the intricacies of Bharatanatyam may also be challenging for those unfamiliar with the art form.

Overall, Aranketram is a must-watch for fans of Bharatanatyam and those interested in Indian classical art forms. It is a moving tribute to the beauty and power of Bharatanatyam, as well as a call for change within the community. The movie's themes of tradition, rebellion, and self-discovery are universal, making it accessible to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning film.