Rama Vaidyanathan performing at the inaugural evening of the 2025 Dance Festival of the Music Academy. Photo Courtesy: SR Raghunathan
The Sangeet Academy’s dance festival began with a performance by Rama Vaidyanathan, who chose compositions that had the feel of Bharatanatyam Margam.
verses of tirumular Thirumandiram Swarupa, it was the first work that focused on the principles of Indian philosophy, especially the immanence of the Supreme. He chose cyclical movements to depict the uninterrupted flow of life, which included flora and fauna. Music was by Sridhar Vasudevan.
A rare Ata Taala Varnam composed by Shyama Shastri in Anandabhairavi was the centerpiece of the evening, the jathis for which were composed by mridangist Sumod Sridharan. This varnam, addressed to Varadarajaswami of Kanchipuram, follows the familiar theme of a heroine pleading with her friend to bring her lord. Without revealing his name, she gives clues to her friend to identify him. This was the most interesting aspect of this piece, where there was a touch of humor in the depiction of Ram’s clues. But one would have expected a comprehensive treatment of ideas from the senior dancer. However, the exquisite choreography of the Garuda Sevai ritual must be mentioned.
In Abhang, Ram came into his own. , Photo Courtesy: SR Raghunathan
The judge of the evening was Janabai Abhang. Rama did complete justice to the song which talks about the unconditional love of a woman who challenges social norms. “I will remove my veil, sing and dance in public,” she says. I am a prostitute and you are my girlfriend.” With undercurrents of sensuality, Ram’s acting was full of nuances that enriched his portrayal. The devotion and power of women was danced vigorously. Karthik Hebbar, who composed the music of Abhang in Raga Jog, sang with great emotion. His voice blended beautifully with the visual language.
The evening ended on a joyous note with ‘Rasa Vilasalola Keertanam’ composed in Raga Kamboji by Swathi Tirunal. The violin support was provided by Vishwesh Swaminadhan, the lighting was by Murugan and the costumes were by Mohanpriyan of Apsaras Dance Company.
published – January 15, 2025 05:05 PM IST
