Finding his passion at the young age of 9 and persevering through over the years, this 39-year-old Malaysian now lives a ‘double life’, selling fish at a wet market during the day and taking the centre stage as a classical Odissi dance by night.
39yo M’sian wet market fishmonger moonlights as classical Odissi dancer
Sharing his inspiring story with local newspaper FMT, Harenthiran Pulingam is a humble fishmonger by day, where he sells fish at his family’s stall located behind the YMCA building in Brickfields. By the age of 12, Harenthiran has mastered the art of preparing a fish for sale. As fascinating as it sounds, the state of his fluent movements was also shadowed through his passion as a classical Odissi dancer.
Source: FMT
Recalling his journey to becoming the principal dancer at a local dance troupe, the humble man shared that his interest for dance piqued when he was only 9 years old.
“My aunt was a dancer and when I watched her dance, I was captivated by it”, he said.
Kickstarting his passion, Harenthiran began learning Bharatanatyam under his first guru, Krishna Kumari. After completing his studies, he fully dedicated his remaining spare time to learn Odissi, a classical Indian dance that’s filled with 2,000 years’ worth of history.
Source: FMT
Like water, his movements reflect fluidity
Torn between choosing to pursue his passion or obey his grandfather, Harenthiran found himself in a tight spot, unsure of what he should do. Revealing his struggles, he mentioned that in the early 2000’s, there weren’t many male dancers especially in Malaysia. Many people, including his grandfather had the idea that dance is only meant for girls.
“My grandfather was very against me pursuing dance. He would always say that it’s an art meant for girls”, he shared.
Source: FMT
However, with the support of his parents, Harenthiran was able to push through, becoming one of the most outstanding dancers in the local scene. Equipped with knowledge of ballet, contemporary dance, as well as Odissi, he has had the opportunity to tour around worldwide, participating in productions he never thought he would have the chance to.
In hopes of continuing his legacy, sharing his passion and dedication for dance through Odissi, Harenthiran is also a teacher where he teaches his students the art of dance through the Indian classical, Odissi.
Indeed, like water and the Odissi dance which focuses on fluidity, the 39-year-old man has dedicated a big part of his life mastering the art of dance and is likely to continue until he is unable to. His enthusiasm and hardworking nature have helped him earn praises not only from his family, but from those who are admiring from downstage.
Source: FMT
When asked about his future plans, Harenthiran shared that one of his lifelong dreams is to be able to take the centre stage in a solo production, expressing his thoughts through his movements.
Truly, a humble man with a heart full of passion. All the best in your future endeavours, Harenthiran, we’re looking forward to seeing you take the centre stage. Check Harenthiran out here.
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