Arangetram is the debut on-stage performance of a former disciple of Indian classical dance and music after a minimum of 7-10 years of training.  In Tamil and Malayalam languages, Arangu means stage and Ettam means rising or climbing. Hence, the word Arangetram means ascending the stage by a dancer. After this ceremony only, the dancer becomes eligible to move forward and pass on the art form to other aspiring learners of the art.