Marked by vivacious footwork and expressional élan, ‘Thak Dinna Dinn’ a Kuchipudi dance performance by Moscow-based Padma Ragini in tandem with her Russian disciple Losho kovo Marina and Pasumarthi Mrutyunjaya Sarma bore out a spectacle of kinetic splendour in style at Kalabharati, Visakhapatnam.
The trio collectively and individually came out at their best offering a visual treat of high order to the rasikas. The expansive of Kuchipudi idiom was put to use in its varied dimensions translating chosen themes into a feast of visual charms. Be it demanding aspects of rigorous natya or that of lithe lasya, the artistes excelled in its artistic presentation. The session commenced with Natesakoutwam, an invocatory in praise of Lord Nataraja. The descriptive piece underscoring the grace and grandeur of Lord Nataraja and His cosmic dance in all its dazzling spirit was presented in a captivating manner that set the tone for the rest. Jagadananda karaka Every phrase was taken care of well in bringing out its devotional and spiritual import, which enhanced its emotional appeal. The trio danced the chosen pieces for the joy of dancing with no effort to impress. Rather they left it to their talent to speak.
Another number that wowed the viewers was Marakatha Manimaya Chela of Utkkad U Venkata Subbiah that dealt with lustre and radiance of Lord Krishna. The beauty of Rasa leela and exotic and exhilarating presence of the Lord on the banks of Yamuna – all have found alluring depiction that held the audience in thrall.
In the solo presentations, with masterly control over complex template of footwork and fluid ease in transformation from one mood to other in a jiffy, Mrutyunjaya Sarma portrayed Dasavataras in his commendable presentation of Narayanate Namo of Annamayya. Losho kovo Marina displayed remarkable grasp of the emotional contours of different moods in depiction of invincible nature of Goddess Kamakshi for ‘Kamakshi Sthuthi’. While Padma Ragini danced ‘Ananda Tandavam’ with verve highlighting the myriad facets of Lord Siva’s cosmic dance in ecstasy. Her choreography weaving intricate floor designs stood out for its exceptional precision. Visakha Arts and Dance Association (VADA) hosted the event.
