JOIN USThe jugalbandi of Carnatic music and kathakali sangeetham was an unusual treat for those present at Seva Sadan Auditorium in Malleswaram recently.
The show organised by the International Centre For Performing Arts (ICPA) had artistes presenting popular Malayalam compositions.
The artistes, who rendered the Carnatic music sequence, included MK Sankaran Nampoothiri on the vocals, Mathur Srinidhi on the violin and Bangalore Rajakesari on the mridangam.
The Kathakalippadam was performed by Kottakkal Madhu and Kalamandalam Babu Nampoothiri.
They were supported by Kalamandalam Krishnadas on the chenda and Kalamandalam Raj Narayanan on the ‘maddalam’.
Rendering Vathapi Ganapathim in Hamsadwani raga, Enthro Mahanobhavalo in Sriragam raga, Shivashiva in Pantuvarali raga and Nagumoni Aadheri among others, the performers left the audience mesmerised. Raj Narayanan, who performs in the City at least once a year said, “We want to keep the tradition of our music going. Music-lovers are sure to love the offerings this evenings.”
“It’s always a pleasure performing here,” added Sankaran Nampoorthiri. Thrilled with the response, Reshmi Nair Ghosh, the founder-director of ICPA said, “It was a pleasant surprise to see so many interested people.There were many who came from far away just for this. We were a bit apprehensive about how the show would go on because it was a weekday.”
“But we are overwhelmed to know that there are so many people interested in knowing more about these art forms,” she added.
However, the challenges have been many for the organisation.
“Since we are a growing group of art enthusiasts and struggling to bring quality programmes here, there were budget constraints. Getting a hall can be difficult and there are those who don’t take us seriously. Even so, we are looking forward to associating with art centres, social forums and art connoisseurs in showcasing the talents,” she added.
The audience had people from different backgrounds. “We don’t get to hear this kind of music often, which is why I made it a point to come here as soon as I heard about it. The artistes are so talented. I really wish that we had more such performances,” said Priya S, a member of the audience.
“I’m so glad that these art forms are being encouraged. There are so many of those from Kerala here and it is a nice chance to hear such music. I am sure even other Bangaloreans would have liked it as well,” said Rakesh, another member of the audience.