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The Auspicious Arangetram
The Arangetram is the principal turning point in the life of an artist. Be it a dancer or musician, the Arangetram is the first fruit; borne and enjoyed by the performer. Years of dedication and hard work is what makes a person fit to portray their talent in public; with the Arangetram.
The Arangetram literally means climbing or reaching the stage and it marks the completion of formal training. An Arangetram is dealt with and celebrated with utmost devotion and purity. It marks the pathway for one, to step into the shoes of a teacher and impart this knowledge in others. The auspicious occasion and tradition of Arangetram can be traced back to the days of Devadasis. This graduation ceremony will forever be the liveliest and most fulfilling memory in a performer’s heart.
How to Choose the Perfect Gift
An Arangetram function is an occasion that calls for a different path from the usual gifting scenarios. For such a precious occasion, be sure to gift something that would cater to the artistic nature of the individual. Bring forth their passion towards the genre involved, with your gift. That way, it would forever be memorable and would satisfy each performing nerve.
Make Sure the Gift is Useful
Rather than spending hard earned money on random things from a store, buy gifts that are useful for the receiver. Invest in pieces that address the occasion and emotion of the receiver. For an Arangetram function too, gift away things that can be further used by the performer, or gifts that would become an integral part of their artistic ventures.
Gift With a Touch of Tradition
Arangetram has been a custom and tradition from the time of devadasis. Our country, people and communities have always kept touch with age-old traditions even as it paces towards modernity. Hence when you intend to gift during an Arangetram, make purchases that give tribute and respect to the various traditions and customs; and also, consider items that form an integral part of the same since they honour the spirit of the ceremony.
The Appeal of the Gift Matters
Make sure the gift chosen has an aesthetic appearance that blends in with age-old traditions. More than modern objects, buy things that are more rustic and antique. A touch of age and history is always a plus while gifting for a very traditional occasion as an Arangetram.
Have a Budget
Walking in blind to buy gifts will most definitely burn a hole in your pocket. Always fix a budget that you wish to stick to while purchasing a gift. After all, it is the emotion and thought behind the gift, that matters and not the price tag. Hence tug in for something that is both pocket and occasion friendly.
10 Gift Choices for Arangetram Function
Here below we have shortlisted the best gifts, you can present during an Arangetram function. Each gift is pocket-friendly and absolutely perfect to be gifted for an awaited Arangetram. Majority of the gifts chosen are unisex and can be gifted to both dancers and musicians. Hence this is the most comprehensive and easy lot of choice available. Every website that is given below also has similar products of higher and lower price range and designs. So, step into the magical array of Arangetram gifts and find your favourite pick.
Lord Shiva Nataraja Idol
Nataraja is the depiction of Lord Shiva as the cosmic ecstatic dancer. He is the epitome of dance as per Hindu culture. Every dancer bows in front of Lord Shiva as Nataraja and seeks his blessings and trains their mind and body to imbibe his essence. Lord Nataraja is not only important for dancers, but also for classical musicians who sing his hails. Hence, an Idol of Lord Nataraja would be a perfect gift during an Arangetram Function. It shall always remain an integral part of the performer’s life and you will always be remembered with a smile for gifting such a thoughtful and elegant gift.
The Nexplora Industries Nataraja Brass Statue (8.7-inch) – Gold, from amazon.in is a classic choice for presentation during an Arangetram function. The idol is made of brass and is priced at Rs. 1928. The idol is precision made and will for sure bring a touch of tradition and culture to any household. It weighs around 1.5 kg and is a sure shot eye-catcher. It not only increases the décor value of the place it is kept but also would be immensely important for the artist.
Devi Saraswati Idol
Devi Saraswati is the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. Gifting Devi Saraswathi is seen as sanctification among Indian culture as it is said to be a blessing to gain more knowledge and excel in everything related. An Arangetram is the graduation of an artist. The mark of imparting the knowledge of others and hence, Gifting Goddess Saraswathi on this auspicious occasion is nothing short of a great present.
The Collectible India Standing Maa Saraswati Idol, Wooden Handmade Decorative Sculpture Hindu Goddess Music Lady Figurine from amazon.in is a beautiful wooden idol that would make an absolutely elegant choice of gift. The idol is priced at Rs. 4752 and is intricately hand-carved. It is not just a decorative piece, but also a valuable collectable. This gift is perfect for both genders, and also every kind of student, belonging to every genre of Artistic Expression.
Auspicious Ganesh Idol
Lord Ganesha is the God of all auspicious beginnings. He is prayed to at the beginning of all new ventures, to ward off every barrier and to give blessings of happiness and prosperity. On this auspicious occasion of Arangetram, gift a beautiful Lord Ganesha Idol to mark the beginning of a new beautiful chapter. The idol can also be placed in the mandir and prayed on a daily basis. Gifting of Ganesha Idol is deemed lucky.
The collectable India Porcelain Standing Ganesh Idol from amazon.in is priced at Rs. 4299. The idol is made of porcelain and is given beautifully handcrafted multi-coloured designs, that warms the heart. The idol is coated with original bronze powder with resin to give an antique polished look. This idol is one of a kind, and the added plus point is that it comes in an exclusive gift box. This gift is fit for one and all.
Regal Jewellery Set
Jewellery is the second skin of a performer. Every act would demand a costume and jewellery that would enhance the beauty of the dancer on the stage. In classical forms of dancing, it is at times difficult to choose jewellery pieces that could go with every act put together or kind of dance being staged. This is where unique versatile pieces come into play. What if you could gift him or her a jewellery set that could go in for multiple dance forms? In that case, we've got you covered.
The Golden collections Multicolour Gold-Plated Combo Of 4, Bharatanatyam & Kuchipudi Choker Necklace Earrings Set for Women/Girls from amazon.in is a perfect choice. The jewellery set has statement pieces that can be paired with every dress colour and style of dance. Remove the pair of earrings, and it would be perfect for a male dancer as well. These pieces are so versatile that it can be worn as a normal jewellery set too. This jewellery piece at Rs.1188 is a pocket-friendly, yet elegant gift.
Pad Ghunghroos
The melodious sound of Ghungroos to the rhythm of music is nothing short of a heavenly call. Without a ghungroo tied tight around the ankle, a dancer is incomplete. The sound of the ghungroo on every step is the heart and soul of a complete dancer. On this auspicious occasion of an Arangetram, gift your loved one a gorgeous pad ghungroo to be a companion for life.
The four-line Red Pad Ghungroo from bharatnatyamworld.com is an excellent gifting choice. At just Rs. 1000, gift your loved one this gorgeous brass ghungroo, with a four-line width and 40 bells. The ghungroo is lined with soft plush red velvet. A fabric that is soft on the skin, and a colour that is pure and pious. The pad is cushioned for extra comfort. Place this in a gorgeous gift box and let the worries fly.
Kanchipuram silk
Each dress for performance is carefully designed and stitched to perfection. A dancer’s costume is the first attraction, and the best material for the same is the very own Kanchipuram Silk. Kanchipuram silk has grown in its pace and design, but once it comes to Bharatanatyam and dance performances, it becomes a totally different genre. These sarees are plain except for the border that comes in signature combinations. The designs are subtle, primitive and traditional. The silk is extremely light and movement friendly. A Kanchipuram Silk saree would be the perfect choice to gift a lady performer. It can be worn as such, and a dancer could turn it into an elegant costume.
The Mango Yellow Kanchipuram Silk Saree from sundarisilks.com is one such classic combination. The bright yellow of ripe mango and the ever-classic red. The saree has traditional designs on the border and would definitely bring a smile on the face of a performer. Perfect for both dancers and singers. This saree can also be used by Men who portray the role of Lord Krishna. This saree would pay absolute respect to Peethaambar. The saree is priced at Rs. 5739.
For the men, the perfect choice other than a saree would be Southloom™ Balaramapuram Handloom Mundu with Design Kasavu Kara (South Indian Dhoti) 2 Inch from southloom.com. It can be used as a dhoti, in different styles and also as a veshti around the shoulders. It is priced at Rs. 1,700.
Bold Kada
A Kada is an ornament worn by both men and women alike. It has a tinge of traditionalism and boldness at the same time. A kada has always been a celebrated ornament, even in mythological stories of Kannaki, depicting the power of women. For this Arangetram Function, gift your loved one a unique Kada that can be worn both as a bracelet, and also an anklet. Choose the size wisely, and it becomes a unique multi-purpose ornament.
The KARA TIQUE Oxidised Silver Jewellery Toe Kada Anklet Traditional for Women & Girls from amazon.in is a multifunctional piece and can be used by both men and women. It has a rugged snake pattern finish and is an oxidised antique finish; metal alloy piece. This comfortable and unique jewellery piece is priced at just Rs.299. So, grab away.
Pure Gold
Gifting gold has been a part of the tradition from time immemorial. It symbolises prosperity and well wishes. Gold is also believed to have certain healing properties. Instead of buying goods that depreciate in value, invest in gold, even as a gift. It would remain valuable to the receiver as well. Gold doesn’t necessarily mean burning a hole, in your pocket. But nowadays you can choose the shiny metal in ways that fit your pocket.
The 999 Purity 1 Gms Laxmi Gold Coin MGLX999P1G, from malabargoldanddiamonds.com is your perfect golden token this occasion. The coin has an intricately carved Goddess Lakshmi figure, that once again accentuates its beauty. The coin comes with a certifying card that denotes the weight and purity of the gold coin inside. The one-gram coin is priced at just Rs. 3,670. The price is subject to change according to market value. The site provides coins of various size as well.
Brass Lamp
When the thought of buying a unique piece that would adorn and beautify someone’s life, let the first option be a unique brass lamp. A medium to spread light and positivity into lives, both literally and metaphorically. A lamp can be gifted to any artist, ready for an Arangetram. Always make sure to buy a unique piece that would always stand out from the rest.
The Craft hut Brass Statue / Diya / Deepak/ Oil Lamp of Lord Krishna Roof Hanging with Bells from amazon.in is a magnificent piece to be gifted during this auspicious function. This is a unique hanging lamp, with multiple lamps placed beneath the feet of a stunning intricate Lord Krishna statue. The lamp, made with unique casting technique of Indian craftsmen is sure to bring a traditional touch to any décor. The melodious sound of the hanging bells soothes all tension off your mind and body. The brass lamp is when lighted illuminates the statue and surroundings with surreal beauty. This gorgeous lamp is priced at Rs. 1,449 only.
Trinket Box
Who wouldn’t want a special box to keep their treasured belongings? A trinket box is a must-have for any artist, to keep their precious belongings safely during trips and performances. During the Arangetram, gift them a unique yet useful present that would become an irreplaceable part of their daily life. Let it mark the beginning of new trips, ventures, memories and treasures.
The Black Wood Trinket Box by Shree Majisa from pepperfry.com is the perfect treasure box to keep the precious little belongings. The black wooden box with intricate rustic designs makes it a vintage piece worth gifting and cherishing. The compact sizing of the box makes it a perfect travel partner. This box is a perfect gift for every artist. It is priced at Rs. 1,619.
Additional Tips for When Gifting the Debutante
An Arangetram is a unique occasion that demands a certain level of attention before gifting. The Arangetram is a custom that has been followed since the time of devadasis. Instead of following the usual gifting pattern, take a step back in time and traditions while gifting for an Arangetram. The following tips would come in handy.
Include a Bunch of Flowers
It has always been a part of our culture to present flowers along with a gift. During this modern time, however, preparing a platter with an assortment of flowers would seem absurd. Hence, while gifting, you can always gift alongside, a beautiful bouquet of flowers. The freshness of flowers would for sure be a pleasant feeling that calms the pre-stage jitters. Visit floweraura.com to find beautiful bouquets. They also have all India delivery, which makes it easy to present even during your absence. Even just handing or sending over a bouquet is as precious as a gift.
Sweets for the New Beginning
Every new beginning should start with some sweet. It is believed that if the beginning itself is sweet, then the entire journey would be too. Hence while gifting for an Arangetram always try to add in a box of sweets. Instead of chocolates, step back into pure Indian traditional Desi Ghee sweets. Visit haldirams.com and find delicious festive packs, with an assortment of lip-smacking sweets. Gift away some sweetness.
Follow Rituals while Gifting
Being a traditional function, make sure to maintain deftness while gifting. The rituals followed may be different for every Arangetram culture-wise. Hence, make sure to ask before you do. Always keep in mind to stand in the proper direction before handing over the gift. And if you are new to all this, do not worry, a good heart and blessing are all that matters at the end of the day.
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Gift Her/Him Love and Confidence
Arangetram is not the yet rather the beginning of a new journey where the dancer is deemed ready for stage performances. Stage performances need hours and hours of practice and can eat away the confidence of any dancer let alone a new dancer. The performance might range from 1 hr to 2 hrs and anything in-between. The best gift you can give a dancer is love and confidence.
If you are talking in the sense of physical gifts, anything that helps them in the future in terms of dance is ideal. Dance is not an economical choice and they would need more accessories and dresses to suit various events and dances. So, anything that would help them in that sense would be helpful and would surely be remembered.