Art is Yoga Sadhana as an Offering!

Classical dance, music, learning and knowledge, and martial arts are all expressions of the science of Yoga. 

Consider the aesthetic and profound impact of certain movements and postures, particularly those found in classical dance forms. Why do some evoke a sense of beauty and resonance, while others do not? Similarly, in music, why do specific notes strike a chord within us, while others are perceived as "besur" – out of tune or lacking harmony? The answer lies in their alignment with yogic principles, which dictate the balance, energy flow, and spiritual resonance that elevate these forms beyond mere physical or auditory experiences.

In the journey of spiritual upliftment, practitioners of these various disciplines undergo a profound transformation. Martial artists, through their disciplined practice and dedication, evolve into "Veeras" or divine warriors, embodying courage, strength, and righteous action. Intellectuals, through their pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, ascend to the status of "Yogis" or sages, achieving profound insight and spiritual understanding. Artists, in their creative endeavors, become "divine artists," akin to Vishwakarma (the divine architect), Apsaras (celestial dancers), and Gandharvas (celestial musicians), channeling divine inspiration into their creations.

Among these, the Apsaras are beings who have achieved self-realization or blossomed through the art of dance. Their existence is characterized by longevity, the possession of extraordinary powers, and a dwelling in higher realms of consciousness. Their visits to lower realms are not arbitrary; they are always imbued with a specific purpose, whether to impart a crucial lesson, fulfill a divine objective, unravel a narrative, or demonstrate a profound truth. Sometimes, they were even involved in testing sages who were on the cusp of attaining Deva (divine) status, ensuring their unwavering dedication and wisdom. 

A striking example of such a test involves a Yaksha, a nature spirit, who challenged the Pandavas at a sacred pond with intricate questions concerning Dharma (righteous conduct), philosophical truths, and the deepest mysteries of life. Only Yudhishtir, renowned for his profound wisdom and unwavering adherence to righteousness, proved capable of matching the divine being’s intellect.

It is this profound connection to the divine and the transformative power of these arts that led to the comparison of Remona Pereira from Karnataka, who achieved an extraordinary 170-hour Bharatnatyam performance, to an Apsara. Her remarkable feat transcended mere physical endurance; it was seen as an embodiment of the dedication, grace, and spiritual depth that define these celestial beings and the ancient art they represent.

Whether expressed through the geometry of dance, the harmony of music, the discipline of the warrior, or the unwavering wisdom of the sage, every pursuit aligned with the science of Yoga is a path to the divine. Ultimately, all these different fields are basically about growing and understanding ourselves better, and living out deep truths.

All classical art is Yoga sadhana at its finest, as it is not only wielded by the practitioner, but also bestowed upon others to enjoy!