Showcasing rhythmic movements

Step by Step

The annual festival of classical events had in the past featured various dance forms and has brought to Bangalore many artistes of international fame. This time, the dazzling stage was embellished with traditional props and witnessed vibrant performances by acclaimed artistes. The hall was jam-packed with music enthusiasts.

Versatile Bharatanatyam dancers Preeti Sunderajan and Sheshadri Iyengar unveiled the evening of classical dance through their performance. Their profound and perfect presentations enthralled the audience. The show began with Nandini Mehta and Murali Mohan coming on to the stage amidst huge applause from the audience. Their team dressed in combinations of green and black offered a vivid performance in Kathak style. It was characterised by rhythmic footwork and spectacular spins. They then moved on to Dhamar, an item of 14 beat taal.

The duo also presented a Marathi thumri Rusali Radha Rusala Madhav, where one saw Radha getting angry seeing Madhava surrounded by Gopikas and she moves away from him. Madhava fails to console her and ends up being angry too. The pair acted out the tiff between Radha and Madhav and Madhav’s efforts to mend their relationship effortlessly. Murali Mohan was extraordinary as Madhav. Nadam concluded the performance with Tarana, a technical item showcasing the prowess of step and movement arrangements.

Kala Krishna, an exponent of the temple dance traditions of Andhra Pradesh, performed Navajanardana Parijatam, a dance form which was initially performed by Devdasis in temples during rituals. He wore the traditional Bharatnatyam attire worn by women artistes to perform Bhama Kalap.

In Bhama Kalap, he performed the role of Satyabhama, excelling in the art of female impersonation.

The second day of the festival witnessed a breath-taking performance by Mantap Prabakar, a renowned promoter of Eka Vyakti Yakshagana. He enacted Chandaprabha and Pootani Moksha.

The audience enjoyed this unique genre which was full of imaginative interpretations. Performances by Kathak artist Uma Dogra and the Odissi dance team from Nrityagrama were also spectacular.

Nadam also utilised this occasion to felicitate some veteran art critics, art historians and scholars for their commendable work in their respective fields. The proceeds of the event were donated to Visthar, to carry out its community-centred programmes.