Narrated by Shantha Lakshmi

Welcome to the land of music and dance, India, also known as Bharat. In the first chapter of Shall We Dance, titled "Setting the Stage," we delve into the world of Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form deeply rooted in India's rich cultural heritage. Bharatanatyam, with origins in Tamil Nadu and a history spanning over 2000 years, flourished in temple settings before facing challenges during British colonial rule. Thanks to dedicated revivalists, it has reclaimed its prominence and is now celebrated globally. This chapter introduces the historical and cultural context, setting the tone for our exploration of this exquisite art form.