Bala

Bala is a 1981 Indian documentary film directed by the esteemed filmmaker, Mr. Satyajit Ray. This eloquent and compelling work of art explores the life and works of world-renowned Bharatanatyam dancer and choreographer, Balasaraswati, often referred to as 'Bala'. This film offers a unique perspective into one of India's most enchanting dance forms Bharatanatyam and the life of the dancer who elevated it to international awareness.

Bala is a profound and mesmerizing tribute to a unique and pivotal figure in the historical fabric of Indian classical dance. Not only is it a celebration of Balasaraswati's immense talent and contributions to the art of dance, but it also delves into the world of Indian classical dance and the intricate interactions that exist between a dancer and their art.

This captivating documentary opens up a world rarely seen by many outside India - the vigour of Indian classical dance, the devotion of its practitioners, the richness of Indian culture, the beauty of the Indian soul, and the passion for and commitment to a centuries-old tradition. The documentary intricately weaves the details of Bharatanatyam with precious footage of Bala performing and rare interviews with her. Every subtle nuance of passion, dedication, and the commitment required to excel in such an art form is aesthetically captured in Satyajit Ray's piece.

In Bala, Ray shares the beauty of the dance itself and provides a sense of the dedication, discipline and sheer hard work required to master the form. With his keen direction and sensitive storytelling, he introduces us to Bala on an intimate, personable level - bringing us closer to understanding the woman behind the legendary dancer.

Ray's portrayal of Bala's artistic journey has subtle nuances that extend deep into her life and the socio-cultural context in which she evolved. Balasaraswati was born into a traditional family of musicians and dancers, the daughter of a professional dancer. It was a time when the art was losing its social respect, and Bala's rise to the zenith of Bharatanatyam was amidst a host of challenges. Despite such obstacles, she consistently and courageously stood true to her passion for Bharatanatyam and helped revitalize the respect it commands today.

In addition to the focus on Bala's journey, the film delves into how her love for the art form eventually translated into her contributing to the development, recognition, and revitalization of Bharatanatyam around the world. Despite coming from an era when women were expected to be demure and complaisant, Bala partook in the global discourse of Bharatanatyam, becoming an inviting gaze into an ancient and rich cultural heritage.

Bala is filled with precious footage of the dancer performing in her radiant attire, adorned with resplendent jewellery, expressing the emotional depth and intricacies of the narratives through her gracious and precise movements, hand gestures, footwork and suggestive expressions. Every emotion, every rhythm, every beat has been captured poetically, making Bala's dance sequences act as an emotional communion with the audience, enhancing the overall story.

What sets this film apart from many other documentaries of its time, besides the subject matter itself, is how it does justice to the Indian classical dance. Satyajit Ray being an internationally recognized filmmaker, was famous for his unique directorial perspective, and that is evident in Bala. With his excellent storytelling techniques, Ray has crafted a documentary that transcends the language of Indian classical dance to reach and touch the hearts and souls of viewers from all over the world.

To conclude, the film Bala is an exquisitely made documentary that narrates the compelling journey of the esteemed Bharatanatyam dancer, Balasaraswati. It is not only a testament to Bala's artistry and contribution to the dance but also acts as a mirror reflecting the beauty, depth, and essence of Indian classical dance, culture, and tradition. As such, Bala is a must-watch, not just for the admirers of dance and art, but also for anyone interested in understanding a rich cultural heritage through the life of a legendary dancer. Through this film, one can appreciate the aesthetics of Bharatanatyam and the inherent beauty and artistry of Indian dance traditions.