Graceful moves to popular songs

In today’s age, it’s difficult to find time to look within oneself and find inner peace. But this is exactly what Nrityanidhi, a dance troupe, did at the Alliance Francaise recently.

Called Dhwani, the sufi kathak recital saw many talented dancers present an array of performances and took the audience on a journey to find inner peace and beauty.

As the curtains went up, the dancers embraced the stage with Chaap Tilak. Gradually the performance unfurled and transported the audience to a world of popular folk and sufi songs accompanied by graceful swirls and intricately choreographed movements of the dancers.

As songs like Iktaara, Piya O Re Piya, Jiya Dhadak Dhadak, Saiyaan, Laal Meri Pat and Kun faya Kun filled the auditorium, the dancers showcased a completely different interpretation to each one of them.

“Many youngsters think of classical dance forms like bharatanatyam or kathak as boring. But this recital was very lively and different and the fact that they danced to familiar numbers made it more enjoyable,” says Rachana, a member of the audience.

Interestingly, many in the audience had not seen something like this before. They found the recital very refreshing.

“The group was very talented and really took one on a journey of love, beauty and peace. After each piece, I actually craved for more,” says Dhruva, who had also come to watch the programme.

Shruthi, who had come with her friends, says that the recital had a calming effect on her.
 “All the dancers were very graceful. I liked the performances to O Re Piya and Sajda a lot,” she adds. Even the choreography was well appreciated, especially to the iktaara.

“Every time I listen to this song, I remember the film ‘Wake Up Sid’ but I could
never imagine it as a kathak recital. It was really good to see the group give their own interpretation to the song,” says Dhruva.  

The evening concluded with Rangrez and Jagaad with the audience giving a standing ovation to the team.