A Bharatanatyam performance by the students of Abhyasa Academy of Classical dance founded by Guru Lavanya, disciple of Guru K.J. Sarasa, took place on the occasion of the Abhyasa Nritya Vardhini award function, Coimbatore.
Her students – Lakshmisree, Sreelekha Ayyappan, Sowmya Hariharan, Nanditha Varadarajan, Ramnivedha and Niveditha Subramaniam gave a unique dance recital at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, here.
The programme opened with a Nrithyanjali in Gowla invoking the blessings of K.J. Sarasa followed by a varnam ‘Amma Anandadayini’ (Bowli) in praise of the deity as the embodiment of the pranava mantra marked by rhythmic movements of the artists.
Their detailed portrayal of Ambal as Creator, Protector and Destroyer showcasing their artistry to create vivid and aesthetic images was a visual treat.
Imaginative abhinaya
Swati Tirunal’s composition, ‘Bhavayami Raghuramam’ in Ragamalika depicting the story of the epic, the Ramayana, was a typical picture of a wide palette of emotions with highly imaginative abhinaya of the dancers.
Their palpable energy brought about by vigorous adavus and steady araimandi stance drew wide acclaim.
Their expressions were quick to convey the essence of the characters in Rama’s life.
Lavanya’s nattuvangam was supported by a skilful orchestra that included Kaushik Chamapkeshan (vocal), Satish Kumar (violin), Vasanthakumar (flute) and Parthasarathy (mridangam). A lilting tillana in Maand was a grand finale.
On the occasion, the Abhyasa Nritya Vardhini award for the year 2012 was conferred on Smitha, a Bharatanatyam dancer, Carnatic vocalist and television artist, by Dr. P.R. Krishnakumar of Arya Vaidya Pharmacy, Coimbatore.
