KUCHIPUDI and Bharatanatyam exponent Kalaimamani Sailaja has only recently returned from Latin America, where she performed classical dance as part of a cultural tour organised by the Government of India’s ICCR. A winner of many awards and titles, this young disciple of the renowned K J Sarasa is also known for her thematic presentations. She is currently pursuing her doctorate on “Tradition, Transition, Tranformation in Culture” at the Annamalai University.
A Kuchipudi DVD of hers, titled ‘A Dance in Divinity’, was released on December 13 by Odissi danseuse Sonal Mansingh at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. The proceeds of its sales will go towards helping under privileged children.
The artiste, who runs the famous Saila Sudha School of Dance in Chennai, spoke to Narayana Vishwanath.Excerpts:
On the DVD content:
As an artiste with deep passion and commitment towards this art form, I have attempted to bring the beauty and divinity of Kuchipudi through the various items — all soaked in devotion, and explaining the nuances of bhava, raga and tala.
In my opinion, the inculcation of the bhakti element in my presentation brings in the tranquility.
On the current dance scenario:
We have to preserve the beauty of the art form. I whole-heartedly welcome newness in presentation, but novelty for the sake of popularity is not my motto.
On contemporary presentations:
They should be an aesthetic mix of trend and tradition. Today’s advent of individualism should exploit the propensity of making the presentation more tasteful, without compromising on quality and purity. The art form should be stopped from becoming a “manufactured product”.
On transformation of arts:
Contemporary art forms are certainly undergoing an evolution, if the conclusion two national seminars we conducted at the Saila Sudha is anything to go by.
Indian dance’s exposure abroad:
Yes, we get good response is foreign countries. During my recent trips to Japan and Russia, I found the audiences most responsive.
Believe me, pure-dance pieces overwhelm them!
Dance and social causes:
My academy continues to nurture talents in a conducive environment, inculcating artistic sensitivity and selfless service. Through this academy, I desire to go beyond, with empathy towards down-trodden children and work with dedication and human touch.
The motto:
It’s to share the light of knowledge through performing arts and discover their quintessence and magnificent manifestations.
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