CHICAGO: The ‘Bharatam Dance Showcase 2014’ at Oswego East High School Auditorium on March 22 gave a dazzling display of Bharatanatyam by over 120 dancers from beginners to those of high professional calibre. The show was witnessed by an audience of over 900.
The emcee for the evening, Ranjani Rajan, welcomed the audience and introduced each piece. In her introductory remarks, Vanitha Veeravalli reiterated that art of Bharatanatyam is a rich continuum and living tradition of India. It was apparent from the performances that this art is alive and thriving in the US.
This was a testimony to Guru Vanitha, who has trained these dancers imparting the cherished art with care and diligence. Her commitment to the art of Bharatnatyam is a testimony that for her, dance is a way of life.
The program began with Nrittanjali, a dance offering with pure classical dance elements by Annu Mutholam and Sutikshna Veeravalli, both Bharatamanis, graduates of Bharatam. Next, dancers in different age groups rendered different compositions, with each item progressing in order of difficulty and skill level.
Starting from Aarambham, by young learners, the performance showcased Alarippu, Kavuttuvam, Jatiswaram and Shabdam in a progression of movement and complexity which set the stage for more traditional story lines that drew their inspiration from Hindu mythology.
Avahanam, a fast piece set to catchy and sprightly instrumental music was performed by a group of inspired moms, who take Bharatnatyam lessons from Vanitha, following their daughter’s footsteps. Varnam, central piece of a Margam, was performed by senior dancers in praise of Devi. In Adinaye Kanna performers beautifully portrayed Krishna dancing by riverfront in a moonlit night.
Two Bharatmanis (Bharatam graduates) Sathvika Ashokkumar and Annu Mutholam presented solos in the program, reminding audiences of the training and disciplined growth they had undergone.
While each presentation evoked a positive response from the audience, some of the most memorable moments included Guru Vanitha herself. She appeared on the stage, joining her daughters Sutikshna and Satvika in presenting a Kavadi Chindu, a form of folk music that richly delineated aspirational human qualities. It was indeed worthy of attendance at the event just by itself.
Thillana, based on the story of Lord Krishna subduing giant snake Kaliya, was a great confluence of energy and rhythm, and this was lapped up by audience with thunderous applause. The dance outfits and colors, meticulously chosen to match the moods of the songs, were a treat to watch.
It is heartening to note that great knowledge from our rich traditions is transmitted to students in Chicagoland through Bharatam.
Asian Media USA
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