Bharatanatyam Artist Shilpa Delivers Powerful Performance at Pracheen Kala Kendra
Young Bharatanatyam danseuse Shilpa, a graded artist of Doordarshan, presented a powerful and captivating rendition at the 316th Monthly Baithak Programme of Pracheen Kala Kendra. Representing the new generation of Indian classical dance, she skillfully blends both tradition and innovation in her performances, showcasing a deep understanding of the art form.
Artistic Background and Training
Working as a Program Officer at the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Shilpa has honed her craft under the guidance of esteemed gurus. She learned from Guru Muniswami and Guru Shubharani Bholar, whose teachings have shaped her into a versatile and expressive performer. This foundation allows her to bring authenticity and creativity to the stage.
Performance Highlights
The program began with Ganesha Kauthavam, composed in Raga Nattai and Tala Adi. This piece invoked the presence of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity. Through rhythmic syllables and beautiful expressions, Shilpa portrayed the Lord's majestic form, narrating His divine qualities and seeking blessings to remove all internal and external obstacles. Her performance sanctified the space, setting a spiritual tone for the evening.
Following this, she presented Tishra Alarippu, a traditional Bharatanatyam sequence adorned with Tala Tishra. This pure dance performance has no narrative, focusing instead on the rhythm and beat that form the base of classical dance. Shilpa's precise movements and timing highlighted the technical brilliance of this piece.
Next, Shilpa performed Shiva Shabdam, based on Raga Kambhoji and Tala Mishra chapu. She won the audience's hearts with her soulful performance, which utilized Abhinaya Ang to interpret the heart-touching Kannada lyrics of "Shankara Parameswara." This piece depicted the deep bond between a devotee and God through three different stories: Ravana, the devotee Kannapa, and a Shiva devotee. Her masterful storytelling brought emotional depth to the performance.
She then moved on to Javali, based on Raga Kapi and Tala Aadi (Deshadadi). This piece portrayed a Khandita nayaika, a heroine enraged after discovering her lover's infidelity. Hurt by deceit and reflecting on his relationship with another woman, she decides to leave him, choosing self-respect over compromise. Shilpa's expressive performance captured the character's anger and resolution, leaving a strong impression on the audience.
Concluding the program, Shilpa performed Devarnama, composed by poet Purandara Dasa and set to Raga Poorvikalyani and Tala Aadi. This presentation featured a composition based on the tender, playful, and emotional relationship between a mother and her child, depicting the beautiful, loving expressions of Lord Krishna and Mother Yashoda. Her nuanced portrayal added a heartwarming finale to the evening.
Recognition and Honors
At the end of the program, the Kendra’s Secretary, Sajal Koser, honored Shilpa with a memento and an uttariya, recognizing her exceptional contribution to the event. This gesture underscored the appreciation for her artistry and dedication to preserving and innovating within Indian classical dance traditions.
Shilpa's performance at Pracheen Kala Kendra not only showcased her technical prowess but also her ability to connect with audiences through emotive storytelling. As a representative of the new generation, she continues to inspire with her commitment to blending tradition and innovation in Bharatanatyam.
