Exclusive: Influencers share their Thought of Freedom Through the Lens of Youngster

Freedom is a deeply personal and evolving concept, especially through the eyes of today's youth. For Singer and Entrepreneur Jashan Bhumkar, it signifies individuality and choice, while for an International Bharatanatyam Artist, it reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. This exclusive piece delves into how influencers from diverse backgrounds perceive freedom, capturing its essence as a tool for self-expression, creativity, and societal impact.

Jashan Bhumkar: Singer, Entrepreneur

Freedom, to me, is more than just a word—it's a feeling tied to individuality, self-expression, and choice. Growing up in India, I've witnessed how the concept of freedom has evolved, particularly among the youth who value the ability to make their own decisions without external influence. Freedom represents embracing uniqueness, celebrating diversity, and living authentically.

For young people, freedom is a powerful symbol of self-expression, enabling them to shape their identities and pursue their passions. It extends beyond personal choices into realms like education, creativity, and intellectual exploration, fostering curiosity and innovation. On a larger scale, it empowers youth to engage with the socio-political landscape, advocate for change, and contribute to society. However, this pursuit of freedom comes with challenges. Striking a balance between personal liberties and social responsibility is crucial to ensure that individual freedoms do not infringe upon the rights of others.

Apeksha  Niranjan: International Bharatanatyam Artist

For a Bharatanatyam artist, freedom is deeply intertwined with both personal expression and cultural tradition. As one of India's classical dance forms, Bharatanatyam emphasizes storytelling, spirituality, and emotional depth, all rooted in centuries-old techniques. For young dancers, freedom is not about abandoning tradition but finding liberation within it.

This freedom often manifests through the fusion of modern sensibilities with classical forms. Young dancers experiment with new choreography, music, and themes, offering fresh interpretations of ancient stories while staying true to tradition. This balance between cultural continuity and innovation allows them to explore contemporary issues through classical dance.

For many artists, Bharatanatyam also serves as a spiritual practice. Performing with devotion enables them to transcend the self and connect with the divine. This spiritual freedom is a deeply personal experience, felt during both public performances and private practice.

In recent decades, the art form has become more inclusive, breaking traditional gender and social barriers. Today's young dancers challenge societal expectations, using dance as a platform to express individuality and explore personal identity.

Ultimately, freedom for a Bharatanatyam artist lies in the journey of mastery, self-expression, and personal growth, reshaping their relationship with culture, art, and self.

Through their unique perspectives, these influencers highlight how freedom transcends personal and cultural boundaries. It empowers the youth to innovate, express themselves authentically, and contribute to society. Whether rooted in entrepreneurship or art, the pursuit of freedom reflects a universal desire for growth, individuality, and positive transformation.