Beijing witnessed a unique cultural evening as Indian classical dance Bharatanatyam was performed on stage. The auditorium was packed with people, and the event echoed with applause.
The highlight of the evening was 17-year-old Zhang Jiayuan, also known as Riya, who made her Bharatanatyam debut. Her graceful moves impressed the audience and marked her entry into the world of Indian classical dance. Last year, 13-year-old Li Muzi became the first Chinese student to perform Bharatanatyam. Now, Riya has become the second performer, earning wide appreciation for her dedication.
The program was attended by India’s Deputy Ambassador to China, Abhishek Shukla, and famous Chinese Bharatanatyam dancer Jin Shan Shan. Jin, who trained at the renowned Kalakshetra Foundation in Chennai, is now teaching Bharatanatyam to more than 100 students in her dance academy in China.
This performance reflects the growing interest of Chinese youth in Indian dance forms. With students like Riya stepping onto the stage, Bharatanatyam is gaining global recognition and becoming a cultural bridge between India and China.
