Chennai: There are many things that can come in the way of pursuing one’s passion time, money, age or societal stereotypes. But defying each one of these and emerging strong, is Ambujam Pillai (77).
The longtime resident of Kottur Gardens is a Bharathanatyam dancer, who religiously attends classes and performs on stage. “I began learning the art from a young age in Arya Kala Nilayam, Kerala, and had my arangetram in a temple when I was five. I continued dancing even as a student at SIT College, Nandanam and choreographed and taught Thiruvathira as a member of the Kerala Samajam,” she begins.
“My late husband was in the Defence and he never restricted me in any manner, neither did my children. One day, I came across an advertisement from Athmalaya Dance School, and I contacted them,” she says, adding that she apprehensive about it.
“I told them my age and they said the classes were for people like me,” she states. For the past six years, Ambujam has been attending all the sessions, where ‘modified’ Bharathanatyam is taught and has been a part of many stage performances.
“Nearly 133 of us from the age group of 25 to 80 put up a show for Dance Hour Night, an annual
event,” she says. “There are many of us who give up on classical dance, post marriage or children. There are also those who wanted to learn but could never get a chance to do so. I want people to
let go of all these apprehensions and pursue their passion. If I can do it, so can they,” she notes.
Interestingly, her house in the neighbourhood is filled with several medals and souvenirs, all
of which she won for her performances over the years. Also, she quips that her children
keep calling to ask if she is at home, as she is always busy out.
“So many people sit idle at home, I am not one of them. We have to be social, to keep health issues at bay. I begin my day at 5.30 am by doing yoga, followed by a walk. I come back home and do some exercises. I have several groups of friends whom I meet for lunch and movies. I also take tuition for students in all subjects of class one to five at the evenings,” she concludes.
She can be reached at 9840233072.