An Arangetram is the first formal dance presentation of a student to the audience portryaing the great tradition of passing on the knowledge from the Guru to the student. To attain this level, a student has to master several aspects of Bharatanatyam which takes years of dedicated training. However, this performance is only a stepping-stone in the study of this art form. After an arangetram, the student continues to pursue the next level in their study of dance. On the day of the Arangetram, the student offers their knowledge of this art form at the feet of her Guru; and to Lord Shiva, the lord of dance. On this auspicious day, the artist ascends the stage with high hopes to display her talent while growing closer to God.

An arangetram is performed once the students finishes at least one 'Margam', a traditional series of dances prescribed in the dance study curriculum. 'Margam' includes pieces like Pushpanjai, Alarippu, Jathiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padam, Kirthanams, Ashtapadi, Thillana and Mangalam.