A different game show

A POPULAR Tamil song runs thus when translated - you are beauty personified - everything about you is engaging and so on. One is tempted to sing this for the recently launched Bharatanatyam programme ``Thakka-dhimi-tha'' being telecast on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m on Jaya TV.

The setting is apt for the classical show - diyas all over the set, a majestic Nataraja statue in the background, floral kolam patterns, the beautiful Bhanupriya (a dancer herself) as anchor and established dancers as judges. The title music, accompanied by Bhanupriya's abhinaya and graceful poses, is impressive.

The well-conceived 30-minute programme is a treat for classical dance lovers.

The first segment is called ``Attami'' and is the classical round. The participants have to introduce themselves and talk about the piece they have chosen to perform.

The second round ``Thatti metti'' is a different one. Each episode has a guest performer, who performs excerpts from popular dance pieces and the participants are required to identify the same. But many of them fail to identify the pieces. This provides a natural touch to the programme. In most of the music game shows, the contestants always seem to identify even rare and difficult ragas.

At the end of the second round, the "Thaka dhimi tha" participants are also asked questions based on the dances performed.

The third round - the creative one is the best. The participants choose a theme and choreograph a piece. For instance, in the first episode, a contestant danced to the Colonial Cousins' rendering of ``Krishna nee begane baro", while another appealed to the forces of nature for peace.

Finally a suggestion - the judges should also be requested to perform their favourite piece, which will be an added attraction.

THARA MOHAN RAO

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Features
Previous : Fusion notes
Next     : The will to work a change