ROLE OF GURU IN THE SUSTENANCE OF PASSION TOWARDS CLASSICAL DANCE: A QUALITATIVE ENQUIRY

Guru is held in great respect and significance in Indian culture since he is the source of all wisdom and learning. India has a rich heritage of several art forms that are closely related to many aspects of life and are still practiced today and passed down from one generation to the next through the "Guru Shishya Parampara". The present study focuses on Indian classical dancers where each shishya has his own unique journey of learning wherein he evolves as a dancer and a human being. During this learning process, the role of guru plays a significant role in the life of the shishya and his overall grooming and continuing the dance journey for years together. Thus, understanding exactly the elements which keep the dancer going is extremely crucial. Therefore, this study aims to explore and understand the possible factors that help classical dancers to continue this long journey and sustain their passion throughout. The present study adopts a qualitative approach in which twelve Indian classical dancers were interviewed telephonically after contacting them using purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was done to illuminate the hidden meaning of the experiences shared by participants which reflected dancers' experiences and perceptions regarding their guru and how it has shaped them as dancers and human beings both. In addition to this, it also the dancers also expressed how they could sustain their interest and passion for Indian classical dance and could pursue it further.