An Argentine who dedicated five decades to Indian dance

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An Argentine woman who started as a ballet dancer and later learnt Bharatnatyam, Odissi and Kuchipudi from great masters has not only dedicated 50 years of her life to Indian classical dance but has also become an Indian in form and spirit.

Myrta Barvie is an icon in South America. She has had an illustrious career as a dancer, teacher, choreographer and writer.

"She has not only mastered Indian dances but has also become an Indian in spirit as well as her personal life," says R. Viswanathan, Ambassador of India to Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay.

Myrta Barvie says she had two dreams, first to become a dancer and second to know India, 'the land of ancient culture and spiritual wisdom'. She is now happy that both her dreams have come true.

Myrta Barvie has learnt Sanskrit and read the works of Vivekananda, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Ramana Maharishi and Yogananda, among others. She is a vegetarian, avoids alcohol, and leads a 'disciplined Indian life' in Buenos Aires.

On being asked what inspired her to the world of Indian classical dances, she said that "it is the Indian karma. I was 17 years old when I was introduced to the legendary Rukmini Devi who visited Argentina on a theosophical mission. I was inspired by her. I realised instantly that India was my karma. I was so thrilled when Rukmini Devi offered me a scholarship to study in Kalakshetra. I jumped up at the offer and was on the next flight to Chennai. Oh! how the time has passed... It is 50 years."

Viswanathan says she has been successful in enforcing 'with an iron hand' strict discipline among her young Argentine students too.

Myrta Barvie is very particular about maintaining the purity and sanctity of the traditions of the classical dances of India.

Her disciples Natalia, Silvia, Indira and Leonara have become teachers and established their own schools. There are over 30 Argentines currently learning Indian classical dances in Buenos Aires.