An impressive Ashtavadhanam by renowned Garikipati Narasimharao was remarkable for its scholarly sparkle. Hosted by Simple and Realistic Ideas (SARI) Foundation at Vysakhi Jalavudyanavanam Visakhapatnam, the session earned accolades from the learned for its taut presentation. Avadhanam -- concentration of mind-- is a Vedic cerebral work. Whatever its form in the hoary Vedic times, on Telugu literary scene it evolved into a distinct genre. Thanks to the exceptional poetic prowess and redoubtable erudition of the literary immortals like Kopparapu Sodara Kavulu, Tirupathi Venkata Kavulu, Venkata Ramakrishna Kavulu and in contemporary times Madugula Nagaphani Sarma and Kadimella, avadhanam exuded an exotic poetic fragrance in such ample measure that it almost acquired a dimension of fine art. Toeing the line of those greats the avadhani Garikapati Narasimharao performed this literary feat with panache.
Known for his witty one-liners and sarcasm, he lived up to his reputation as a redoubtable and quick-witted scholar on several counts. His presence of mind in responding to loaded queries and an ability to strike an instant rapport with the audience made it a thoroughly enjoyable session for all those present there. He excelled in all aspects of this cerebral exercise leaving an indelible mark on the minds of audience.
The focus of avadhanam generally is on the dharana the retentive and recitative aspects of the mind of the avadhani rather than on its poetic facet; poetic spark in avadhanam or in aasuvu –a verse extempore-- is more an exception than a rule. This avadhanam is an exception on that count. His exceptional retentive and recapitulative skills came into full play much to the delight of the audience as he recited all those verses composed in the course of the session. His ingenuity came to fore in his poetic responses to an array of demanding posers by the Pruschakas,
BV Bangarraju (Samsya), PV Krishnayya (Dattapadi), Rambhatla Parvateeswara Sarma (Nishiddakshari), Kannepalli Varalakshmi (Vyastakshari), P Haripriya (Varnana), R Venkatraya Sarma (Asuvu), Suhasini Anand (Puranam) and Nanduri Prabhakar (Aprasthuta Prasangam) took part and DV Surya Rao coordinated it.
