Classical dance in Bangladesh has traditionally been linked with discipline, hierarchy, and extensive training. It has often been seen as exclusive to those who began training from a young age. Arthy Ahmed, now honored with the Ekushey Padak, the country’s second-highest civilian award in dance, is being acknowledged for her performances and her inclusive approach to classical dance.
Arthy Ahmed emphasizes that her work is not about flawlessness but about celebrating aspirations. She believes in learning from mistakes and improving continuously. She expresses that the award recognizes the social impact of her project rather than personal success.
She credits her gurus and students for the honor, stating that the recognition belongs to them as much as it does to her. Arthy particularly dedicates the award to her Guru, Lubna Marium, a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s cultural landscape.
Arthy views the award as an opportunity to shine a light on young dance artists who may feel overlooked. She questions the unequal access to learning art forms and believes that everyone should have the chance to explore their creativity.
In her efforts to make dance more accessible, Arthy has focused on reaching wider audiences outside traditional cultural spheres. She aims to integrate dance into people’s lives and foster a sense of inclusivity.
Despite maintaining the standards of classical discipline, Arthy has welcomed adult learners back to the art form, empowering them to rediscover their passions and build confidence in themselves.
She envisions a society where art forms are integrated into everyday life, emphasizing the transformative power of practicing art and encouraging individuals to pursue their artistic dreams.
Arthy has faced criticism for featuring “untrained artists” on stage but has received overwhelming support for her inclusive approach. She feels a heightened sense of responsibility towards her students, society, and fellow dancers since receiving the prestigious award.
Looking ahead, Arthy hopes to expand her initiatives beyond Dhaka, creating safe spaces for dance education in other regions. She calls for solidarity among dancers to ensure respect and sustainability within the dance community.
Her ultimate goal is to inspire people, regardless of their dance background, to fearlessly pursue their artistic aspirations. Through her work, she aims to promote accessibility, participation, and respect for trained dancers, creating a progressive and supportive environment within Bangladesh’s dance community.
