Sanskrit is one of the most ancient languages across the world. In fact, many popular languages, have originated from Sanskrit.
While these languages are being conserved and nurtured, Sanskrit, on the contrary, has lost its value in it its own homeland.
However, the language’s association with classical dances is still intact.
Noted Bharatanatyam dancer Geeta Chandran demonstrated this ancient
relationship between Sanskrit and her dance form with a special presentation, at an event organised by Sanskrit Academy on the occasion of Sanskrit Day recently.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, Sanskrit Academy, Dr Dharmendra Kumar said, “When we approached Geetaji, she was really enthusiastic about the idea. Not only did she agree but also ensured that she will present something relaClassic Geeta Chandran demonstrated the relationship between Sanskrit and Bharatanatyam.ted to Sanskrit only.”
Geeta picked six Sanskrit poets of ancient and modern era as a tribute to the language and demonstrated its long-standing relation with classical dance forms.
“Sanskrit is the mother of many languages. Other countries have conserved their languages but we don’t respect our own language. Such events should be held in universities and colleges as that will help in keeping the language alive especially among the younger generation,” he said.
Based on the work of Sanskrit poets, Geeta, known for her pristine classical approach to dance, began the hour-long performance with Adi Shankaracharya’s Shiva Maha Panchakshara shlok which describes Lord Shiva’s attributes. The dancer’s choreography was based on her study of Indian paintings and sculpture.
She then performed on Damodara Gupta’s verse from Kuttinimattam which describes the arrival of Kamadeva and his love interlude with Rati. This was followed by her classical moves on Jaidev’s Geet Govind verse Lalita lavanga lata parishilana where coming of spring is described.
After Kalidasa’s Ritusamhara varsha ritu, Geeta, a Padamashri recipient showcased a love story that has ended and how the protagonists carry on with their lives, her dance moves on cantos from Amaru Shatakam.
The performance came to an end with Maitreem bhajata by Swami Chandrasekhara Saraswati that seeks global peace and well-being. This Sanskrit verse was specially composed for the late M S Subbulakshmi to perform at the UN General Assembly.
The event Natyakaudimi at Hindi Bhawan auditorium was attended by a large number of students of Hindi and Sanskrit along with Bharatanatyam lovers.