A Muslim couple will dance at the Sivaratri festival at Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple, one of the important temples in the State, on February 14, in a rare show of communal harmony.
B.K. Shafeekudeen and his wife, Shabana Shafeekudeen, will present ‘Sivoham,’ a choreography on Lord Shiva.
A disciple of the Dhananjayans, Shafeekudeen is a postgraduate in Bharatanatyam from Madras University.
He is a recipient of the Special Commendation Award (2013) instituted by the Bharat Kalachar as part of the 27th Margazhi Mahotsav; the Best Up-and-Coming Artiste (All-India Bharatanatya Association, 2009); and Natya Kala Vipanchi (Balamuralikrishna Trust, 2008).
He has performed at major festivals in India, Germany, the U.K. and the U.S.
Shabana, daughter of Kalamandalam Husnabhanu, has a diploma in dance from Bharatidasan University.
Authorities of the Vadakkunnathan temple have been regularly inviting non-Hindus to perform there, proving that art knows no boundaries. Last year, they invited Stephen Devassy to present a fusion music programme at a festival.
B.K. Shafeekudeen and his wife, Shabana, will dance at Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur on February 14.
