or the first time in 38 years, dancers will be performing in front of Utsava Murthis during Brahmotsavams at Birla Mandir, Hyderabad. The breakthrough has been possible thanks to Natya Swara convener, G Anna Rao. “Classical dance programmes are being organised at temples, but for the first time the temple authorities sought dance to be part of a celestial event,” he says.
Kuchipudi danseuse Naroju Snehalatha, who readily agreed to perform, says: “Performing during Navaratri gives great pleasure and on a special occasion, dancing before the deity is even more special.”
Bharathanatyam dancer Kiranmayee Madupu considers performing during Dasara an honour as the festival is all about celebrations of the victory of good over evil. Hima Bindu Kanoj, a doctorate in dance from University of Hyderabad, says: “Navaratris are so auspicious and getting an opportunity to perform is a service to the Lord.”
For Smitha Madhav, Dasara is special. “During childhood, it was about Bommala Koluvu, visiting people's homes and singing songs, while nowadays, it is concerts, it’s an exhilarating time. Performing before the deity gives goose bumps,” she shares. Kuchipudi exponent Sindhuja says: “The vibes during Navaratri are high and performance at this time is something to be cherished. God is omnipresent! I have performed in front of the Utsava Murthis at the Yadagirigutta Brahmotsavams too.”
Kiranmayee points out that the concept of temples patronising classical dances is a sustainable model. “Devotees visit temples - enjoy dance while artistes educate them on culture through their art.” Delving into Natyashastra, Snehalatha says: “In dance, we have two divisions i.e. Margi (classical) and Desi (folk or regional). Margi leads to salvation and means to reach God, while Desi is pure entertainment. Performing here means connecting with the Lord and it’s a golden opportunity.”
Hima Bindu, who has performed at Rangbagh Temple states that it is motivating to see temple managements encouraging artistes. “When we trace our roots we see that temples have always promoted culture. And in this modern age too, temple is a prominent place for us to remember our culture.” Echoing similar sentiments, Smitha says: “It is a tad bit ironic, but I am glad that these performances are happening nonetheless. I earnestly hope that the temple dances are restored to the pride of place that they held at one time.”
According to Sindhuja, “Open spaces give a sense of being close to Nature and its boundless energy just seeps into you! On the other hand, auditoriums are what we are accustomed to and technically are advantageous for specific presentations.” She agrees that the mood created by live music is radiant. Agreeing with the others, Smitha says: “The magic that one feels when one can catch a quick glimpse of the moon, in the midst of a padam or a javali is simply exquisite. Dancing in this lovely weather is even special.” Depending on the duration of the concert, Smitha picks her orchestra.
Snehalatha has no qualms about where she is performing, “But generally open areas are huge in space and audiences would be surrounded in all the directions and here the artiste has to make sure that his/her performance reaches everyone.” The Kuchipudi dancer prefers live music as it gives an artiste to explore herself on the stage.
The Muvva founder too is not particular about the place of performance, but seeks good and appreciative audience. “Dance is a flow of energy, and when that energy gets a boost in the divine premises, it becomes even more heavenly. Also, dance would reach a more number of people through temples and many others may be encouraged to learn it. ”
The Natya Swara convener is hopeful that other temples in Hyderabad will also include classical dance recital in the seva to the Lord. Anna Rao says: “During the recitals at temples, there is always a dedicated audience who enjoy the ambience of watching this great classical art form in the place where it was originally performed. If it is made part of the temple ritual, it will put in place a permanent support structure for artistes.”
Schedule
October 15 : 6.30 p.m.: Kuchipudi performance by Snehalatha
October 16 : 6.30 p.m.: Bharatanaytam by Smitha Madhav
October 17 : 6.30 p.m.: Kuchipudi by Sindhuja
October 18 : 6.30 p.m.: Kuchipudi by Hima Bindu Kanoj
October 21 : 6.30 p.m.: Bharatanaytam by Kiranmayee Madupu
