Nestled in the Visakha valley wedged between verdant hillocks, the sprawling premises of Kuchipudi Kalakshetra of maestro Vempati Chinna Satyam reverberated to cadenced jingling of ankle bells as budding talents came alive as part of World Dance Day celebrations. Serene and scenic environs, inspiring and conducive ambience at Kalakshetra makes it pleasant for both performers and viewers alike and this session was no different. With a pervasive feel of festivity spreading all around, the talents of promise were at their evocative best lending an impression that they were in their comfort zone under expert guidance. A measure optimum self-confidence writ large on their beaming faces. The Kalakshetra, in association with Visakha Art and Dance Association (VADA), conducted a marathon session of dance competitions a day before both in Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam and budding talents from Andhra and Telangana regions actively took part in it. The winners in the contest performed in this event. In juniors’ category M. Vaishnvai, S. Subhanvitha won first and second prizes respectively. The duo also won prizes in Bharatanatyam category in the same order, while Sai Pujitha (Kuchipudi) and Bedatroyee Das (Bharatanatyam) got third prizes. In the seniors segment, Warangal-based Katragadda Himamsi, R. Gayatri and G. Kironmayi stood first, second and third respectively.
Each of these artistes in making presented a piece in the performance. It opened with Himamsi dancing an invocatory paying obeisance to Lord Ganesha. The composition for this was of Purandaradasa. This doe-eyed young dancer lent a charming expression to the descriptive nature of the composition in detail. Divine attributes of Lord Ganesha stood well-expressed in apt sancharis and her foot work was good. She ably portrayed various aspects of the composition. Ananda Tandavamaade was another number that drew wide applause. The ecstatic facet of Lord Shiva performing cosmic dance and the attendant details were well-presented. Jayamu Jayamu and a vivacious Tillana were other notables in this session.
