Classical dance in Bangladesh has long been associated with discipline, hierarchy and years of rigorous training. It is rarely viewed as a space for those who did not follow the traditional path from an early age. With the Ekushey Padak, the country’s second-highest ranking civilian award, in the field of dance now attached to her name, Arthy Ahmed’s work is being recognised for both her performances and her broader vision of inclusivity within classical practice.

"Ghonoghota," a monsoon-themed dance production by the Arthy Ahmed Dance Academy, featured adult beginners from diverse backgrounds, performing Rabindranath Tagore’s works. The event celebrated participation over perfection, highlighting the joy of starting anew at any age.

The forty dancers are the second batch of Arthy Ahmed’s adult beginners dance course and workshops. Now, after undergoing the three-month long course and five workshops, they are opting to stage a grand dance recital titled “Riturongo”.