It was a blissful evening at the Victoria Edward Hall as a troupe of young dancers of Nrithya Darshan Dance Academy, Chennai, moved their nimble feet to the classical Tamil numbers of poet Kannadasan.
Tamil literary cultural festival sponsored by Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram and Tamil Nadu Rural Arts Development saw songs like Maraindirundu Paarkum Marmam Enna from Thillana Mohanambal danced to perfection by Monika, T.R.Mahalingam's Senthamizh Thenmozhiyal from Maalaiyitta Mangai and Kannadasan's favourite Pullanguzhal Kodutha Moongilgale hit the air and mesmerize the audience who had gathered there.
I.Uttrasree of Velammal Matriculation School, Chennai, captivated the audience with her breathtaking snake dance performance.
Educational institutions can merely produce engineers, scientists and doctors, but only arts and literature could nurture humans. Art and literature are very important for the culture and the promotion of its language, said U. Sagayam, District Collector, Madurai.
Tamil language promoted humanity and brotherhood 2,000 years ago when Kaniyan Poongunranar sang “Yaadhum Oorae Yavarum Kelir” which transcended geographical boundaries to promote multiculturalism. Sangams were established to promote Tamil language and now at this juncture it becomes important to promote folk arts to support and nurture Tamil language, he concluded.
Mayor, V. V. Rajan Chellappa in his address appreciated Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram for promoting village and folk arts among the masses. The cultural festival was held in Madurai after being conducted in Srirangam and Nagercoil.
Kumari Sachu, member secretary, Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram, said that concerted efforts would be taken for improving the livelihood of indigenous artistes. T. Thavamani and M. A. Jaffar's Karagattam and Tamil Nadu Nataka Nadigar Sangam's “Valli Thirumanam” were performed on stage.
Music director, Deva, president, Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram welcomed the gathering and T. Somasundaram, director, Tamil Nadu Rural Arts Development Centre proposed a vote of thanks.
