Our Bureau
Edison, NJ
For many young artists, a debut performance marks the culmination of years of training. For Hasini Rangaswamy, it is also an opportunity to celebrate cultural heritage and support a meaningful cause.
On June 27, 2026, Hasini, a rising junior at John P. Stevens High School, will present her Bharatanatyam Rangapravesha, the traditional solo debut performance in Indian classical dance, at the Union County Performing Arts Center in New Jersey. Alongside the performance, she will host a Chitrakala Pradarshana, a solo exhibition showcasing her collection of traditional Thanjavur paintings.
A first-generation artist in her family, Hasini began learning Bharatanatyam at the age of six and has spent years honing her skills through disciplined training and participation in numerous dance productions. She has also successfully completed the Junior Diploma Dance Examination conducted by the Kalagangotri Foundation in affiliation with Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
Beyond dance, Hasini has developed expertise in the intricate art of Thanjavur painting, a centuries-old South Indian tradition known for its detailed relief work and gold embellishments. She learned the technique during a summer visit to India and has since created works that reflect Indian heritage, devotion, and classical artistry.
What sets Hasini’s artistic journey apart is her commitment to community service. She plans to sell paintings from her exhibition and donate all proceeds to initiatives supporting children’s mental health.
Outside the arts, Hasini volunteers at RWJBarnabas Health, assisting patients and healthcare staff, and contributes her time to local preschools and community gardens. An honor roll student and active member of her school’s HOSA club, she aspires to pursue a career in healthcare.
Through her dedication to the arts and service, Hasini hopes to inspire others while making a positive impact in her community.
