On September 21st, the Littleton High School auditorium witnessed Indian dance styles from several regions of India for three hours.  Isha Laad of Lexington presented the mesmerizing live performance in a Nritya Nipuna program.

“Nritya Nipuna” literally means “proficient at dance” and incorporates the grace of Manipuri and the vitality of Folk Dance with the aesthetic perfection of Bharatnatyam. It marks an important milestone in shishya’s (student) dance career, after many years of rigorous training in Indian classical and folk dance, signifying booth a permission as well as blessing from her Guru (teacher) to debut her solo dance performance in front of an audience.

Isha danced for three hours in performances of Bharatnatyam, the purest and oldest form of Indian classical dance, Manipuri, and light, pulsating and fast folk dances.  In addition, Isha, along with her sister Sheetal, also presented a fusion dance where Isha performed a hip-hop style dance.

Unlike typical such program, this performance successfully incorporated technology such as different backdrops and portraying three roles using additional screen during the “Thaye Yashoda” dance.  One person commented after the program: “I have attended several Nritya Nipuna programs; I really enjoyed this one.”

Isha has been learning classical dance from Jasmine Shah, a well-known teacher, for over 10 years.  Jasmine Shah is an accomplished dancer of Bharatnatyam, Manipuri and Folk Dances, and has organized and performed for several charitable and fundraising events.

Isha began her dance career at the age of six under the loving guidance of Jasmine Shah.  All these years, she has shown a strong commitment and devotion to the art of dance.  Isha has performed in several cultural events such as Marathi Mandal, Gurjar, IAGB, and special performances choreographed by Jasmine.  She has been trained in western dances such as Hip-hop and Jazz for last ten years. Isha’s maturity as a dancer has empowered her to choreograph dances for a few cultural events.  Isha has won dance awards from Boston Saragam, Marathi Mandal, and other organizations.

Isha is an honors Junior at Lexington High School.  Being a Shishu Bharathi graduate, Isha takes special interest in cultural activities.  Isha’s passion for science, led her to win Siemens, We Can Change the World.  She loves volleyball, and has represented her school as a captain for the last two years. Her hobbies include watching the New England Patriots, reading and listening to music.

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