Bharatanatyam exponent Alarmel Valli was recently conferred the Bharata Kala Ratna title by the Governor of West Bengal M.K. Narayanan at the Trinity Arts Festival. The festival held at the Kumararani Meena Muthiah College of Arts & Science, Adyar, encourages aspiring musicians and dancers from overseas to showcase their talent.
Narayanan described Alarmel Valli as a phenomenon who continually explored the complex layers of meaning in poems and lyrics giving them a visual and melodic dimension. “Her artistic rendering while remaining within the framework of classical Indian dance is contemporary in its interpretation and scope.” Former judge of the Supreme Court S. Natarajan praised Valli for bringing out the beauty of Sangam literature in her dance.
N. Ravi, Director, Kasturi & Sons, said that Valli was known for her perfection and beauty in dance. He quoted from the famous dance critic, Subbudu’s commentary that Bharatanatyam should be renamed “Valli Natyam”.
Murali Raghavan, convenor of the festival, welcomed the gathering. R. Muthukumar, chairman of the festival, proposed a vote of thanks.
