Chancellor of Kerala Kalamandalam and classical dancer-cum-actress Mallika Sarabhai reacts to Kalamandalam Sathyabhama’s controversial statements against Mohiniyattam dancer R L V Ramakrishnan. The episode has sparked an intense debate on discrimination based on colour, caste and creed which is prevalent in academic spheres and in the society as a whole.     

Kalamandalam Sathyabhama has voiced what millions of Indians feel and tried to keep quiet about. White is beautiful. Black is dirty and bad.

Here’s what Mallika Sarabhai told Mathrubhumi

“I am often asked why I allow mediocre students to do their Arangetral or Aaradhana as we call the ceremonial graduation in Darpana. My answer is, I am not training race horses for a win. I am giving the possibility of flowering to people.

Every baby moves once she learns to stand. We call it dance. To dance is a basic instinct as is to move. Learning to dance  is a liberating experience. I would be blessed to give this to anyone of any age. About fifteen years ago we started encouraging the mothers waiting for their children at our gate to learn. ‘At my age? How can I?’ Was the incredulous response. And the. A wistful, ‘I have always wanted to and never could’. Last year three women graduated, mean age 60. One danced at her son’s wedding and as a Padam danced the lullaby she used to sing. Seeing these women get luminous is my greatest reward. None of them wish to be dancers. But dancing has changed them.

Now comes the present controversy. The true quality of a Dancer is an inner one - otherwise every pretty thing who has learned a style would be a star. My mother, at 95, would just raise her hands for Krishna Nee Begane and we could see worlds in that, for her inner devotion and love poured out of her eyes. Neither Birju Maharaj nor Kelucharan Mohapatra were good looking. Should they not have danced?

Yes packaging is important for a performer for our brains are wired for a certain aesthetic by society and the visual blasting every day. But for a dancer that can only last a few minutes. It is an inner beauty that then must shine forth. It is the soul that must touch the Rasika.

Would K Sathyabhama ban wheelchair bound dancers who show amazing art? The brave and wonderful blond Bharatanatyam dancers? Vijaya finals and Shri Chandrashekharji because they are past their prime?

If a dancer finds an audience that goes beyond the racism of our fellow Indians, then why should they not dance?

I am really happy that she has spoken her mind and shown her true prejudices. She represents millions. And this is a debate that needed airing.

But Sathyabhamaji we shall continue dancing, black or yellow, fat or thin, able bodied or not. That is a joy and liberation you can not take away from any of us.”