Dignified presentation

AMBALAM, A Centre for Bharatanatyam, headed by Indira Kadambi, presented a solo thematic recital, ``Sadasiva Darisana,'' dwelling on compositions in praise of Lord Siva. Indira Kadambi, main artiste, handled the theme through a multi-faceted approach, addressing the Supreme deity. Indira gave a dignified presentation of the chosen items. The opening number, a moving Vachana of Basaveswara, describing the devotee's ultimate surrender at the feet of the Lord, through an offering of the individual's body, comparing it to the sacred temple and its different quarters was especially impressive. This beautiful composition narrated the deep devotional outpourings of the sincere soul, in search of the Supreme. Indira revealed her serious commitment to the art even in this initial number.

Indira had the advantage of the melodious vocal support of her husband, musician T. V. Ramprasad, whose rich voice enhanced the dance narration.

Theme well-presented

At Bharat Kalachar's Yuva Utsav, several young dancers were featured. ``Ramakatha Manjari,'' of Parvati Ravi Ghanatasala was one of the well-attended presentations. Parvati had chosen a couple of apt compositions of Saint Tyagaraja and the major narrative composition of the epic by Maharaja Sri Swati Tirunal, "Bhavayami Raghuramam", linking them all beautifully. Nearly 25 young students of Parvati participated in this thematic presentation, which could reach the public with its popular, skilful approach. Each dancer performed with commitment, especially in Bhavayami Raghuramam. Srividya as Rama and Hemamalini as Hanuman were noteworthy in the group. Radha Badri, main vocalist, gave excellent vocal support with her soulful singing, although on several occasions her voice got drowned by the loud mridangam and other percussive accompaniments.

Among the solo dancers, Anjana Ketty, disciple of Chandrakala, also performed in this series. Anjana has a supple physique and considerable talent but she has to put in hard work to improve her skills. She has a long way to go in understanding the nuances of abhinaya.

Chandrakala conducted the recital with grip, assisted by one of the Padma Seshadri sisters for vocal support. She had to constantly look at the script holding it well above her head.

It was quite depressing to see a young vocalist who has not realised the need to absorb the lyrics and sing by closely watching and following the dancer's movements, to create a better impact. Vishwanathan (mridangam) was the best as an accompanist that evening.

NANDINI RAMANI

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