An evening of music and dance

Classical dance, rock, film songs, Katha Prasangam and a comedy skit – an assortment of items formed the Kerala Kala Samithi's 41st anniversary celebration at Kala Keralam, Visakhapatnam. The session opened with a group singing Easter songs that set the tone. Next came a group dance by the disciples of Ashna Sasidharan that captivated the audience. In a perfect blend of expression and foot work the team executed simple but charming floor designs dancing Kannan kani kannan' a number in praise of Lord Krishna. Childhood pranks of Lord Krishna and rasa leela of Radha and Krishna in Brindavan formed the theme and the budding artistes danced well, much to the delight of dance lovers. Sreeya, Keerthi, Vandana, Jyotsna, Sharon, Kiron and Roshan displayed remarkable talent.

Guru Ashna Sasidharan's presentation of classical numbers in different genres such as Bharatnatyam, Mohiniattam and Kuchipudi wowed the audience. The mythological episode of Sita Swayavaram found charming expression in a wide range of Sanchari bhavas. The majestic gait of Lord Rama and his prowess in breaking the bow of Lord Siva, blushing Sita garlanding Rama – details of the episode were delineated in Bharatanatyam with panache. Ashna's expressions sparkled in the presentation of a number that dealt with the depiction of varied nuances particularly pangs of estrangement of Vipralabdha Nayaki. In the third one, she explored the chemistry between a Nayaki and her Lord in which the Nayaki gets lost in a self-forgetful mood praising the charms of her Lord. Ashna's grip over footwork and expression came to fore in every frame.

A folk number extolling the charms of rural life with all its flora and fauna and sweet-nothings shared between a rustic young couple mesmerised. A rock number wowed the audience for its swift and swirling movements.

Katha Prasangam by Fazina K evoked good response. She narrated how a person born in a family of modest means strives hard to make it to the top in life. Surmounting heavy odds and untold misery in a society fraught with all sorts of divisions, he scales remarkable height of success. However, the powers that be hatch a plot for his downfallhim. The tragic tale, narrated in all its poignancy, struck a chord. Film songs, fusion dance, magic show and other items delighted the audience.