A special programme featuring 1000 dancers will be presented at the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur on September 25, by Brhannatyanjali, Thanjavur, and ABHAI (Association of Bharatanatyam Artistes of India). This year marks 1000 years since the Big Temple was completed. The aim of this event is to create an awareness among dancers about the connection between the temple and the dancers in those times. The event is open to ABHAI members and disciples of gurus who are ABHAI members.
The minimum age must be 12 years and the applicants must have performed the salangai pooja. Dance gurus must inform ABHAI about the number of students they will be sending for this event. Individual dancers not attached to a guru can also participate. The guru concerned will be given a DVD with the specific items – on Vinayaka and Karur Devar's verses on the Thanjavur Peria Kovil. Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, president ABHAI, is composing the music and choreographing the items.
All the participating dancers must follow the same choreography to ensure uniformity in presentation.
Those interested can donate Rs. 100 to ABHAI and participate in the Brhan-Natya Yagna. The last date for registration is August 15. Outstation participants can send a DD in favour of ABHAI. Queries may be sent to: abhaichennai@gmail.com or contact ABHAI office at 044-24994751 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
