Japanese artist Hiromi Maruhashi says that Mohiniyam is a complete art form

Hiromi Maruhashi | Photo Credit: Athira M

Hiromi Maruhashi has light on his face because we sit to talk about Mohinitam. The classical dance form of Kerala has been an integral part of his life for more than three decades. Every year she comes to the state to brush her lessons, learn new presentations and teaches interested dancers back home.

He is fully prepared to return home after a 10-day intensive workshop under Dansuz Nina Prasad. Hiromi recalls that this was his discovery to learn traditional dance forms that took him to Mohiniyam. “I was in contemporary dance and to read about the dance forms of Kerala. I started learning Nangiyarakathu from Margi Sati. But I could not stage it in Japan because it was not possible to buy it Mizavu (Copper drums are used as a collision equipment). Sati teacher suggested that I learn Mohaniyam and introduce me to Kalamandalam Lilamma, ”Hiromi says.

Hiromi Maruhashi | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Although she joined Kerala Kalamandalam, she was out after a few months and took a personal lesson from Lilamma teacher. “After the death of Lilamma teacher, I took a lesson from various teachers every time when I came to Kerala. During the epidemic, I traveled to the state every year for Mohinitam lessons. I realized that all teachers are not dedicated to dance form. For some it is like running a business.”

Hiromi believes that Nina’s workshop has been a different experience. “We were taken through the basics of Mohinitam. It was fresh and I felt like a beginning. We learned various songs and gained many educational knowledge.”

She considers Mohinistam “fully with art. I like movement, expressions, stories …”.

Hiromi Maruhashi | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

In addition to teaching Mohinist, Hiromi takes yoga classes in Japan and works with the government on various health programs for senior citizens. “This includes exercise and diet. There are sessions to improve their intellectual development as well.”

Hiromi has also worked in Malayalam Chal, Nautam (2005). “This was caused by a saint teacher. Her husband was electrocked during the shooting and was destroyed. I was one of those who had exercised him to face the camera again. She agreed to the condition that I take him to the place. So I came down from Japan for it. I finally got a small role.”

Talking about his proficiency in speaking, reading and writing to Malayalam, Hiromi says that he started learning Malayalam while studying Nangiyarakathu. “Once I started coming here every year, it improved. I am also called to the immigration office in Japan for translation work. The police have also sought my help.”

His association with Kerala has been so deep that he has learned to cook most of the state’s traditional cuisine. He has also written a book in Japanese on his effort with Kerala and Indian art and culture.