Pushpanjali

Pushpanjali is the traditional opening piece in a Bharatanatyam performance. The word comes from Sanskrit: “Pushpa” means “flower”, and “Anjali” means “offering with folded hands”. Together, it symbolizes a heartfelt floral offering at the feet of the divine.

Through this piece, we offer our prayers and respect to the gods and goddesses, the ashta dikpalikas (guardians of the eight directions), our gurus, and the audience. It is a moment of grounding and gratitude — a way to prepare both the body and the mind before beginning the journey of dance.

Every time I perform Pushpanjali, I feel connected to something greater — a tradition full of meaning, devotion, and beauty. 🌺🙏