The amalgamation of dance traditions of Kathak and the ritual arts of Vajrayana Buddhism come together in a unique presentation titled Shunyata, the principle concept of nothingness in Buddhism. Striving to essay the philosophy of Shakyamuni Gautam Buddha, the dance and music production by the Grammy Award winners—the Buddhist monks of the Sherabling Monastic Seat, and Kathak danseur Shovana Narayan—is a four-part presentation which takes you through the experiences of King Ashoka after the war of Kalinga and those of the Buddha as passed down in legends about his life, including the stories of Kisa and the mustard seeds, along with Sujata and the bowl of milk pudding. “The programme has been set to a mix of Hindustani classical music and traditional Tibetan Buddhist music, thus representing the coming together of both music and dance traditions of Kathak and Vajrayana Buddhism. The compositions have been done by the much-acclaimed Sangeet Natak Academy Awardee, Pandit Jwala Prasad,” says Guru Vajradhara, the leader of the group.
In the present context of wars and violence, the guru believes that man seems to be desperately looking for peace of mind. However, it is eluding him. It is in this scenario that ancient Buddhist and Hindu philosophies need to be re-visited, re-understood, imbibed and remembered, reiterates Vajradhara. In it, he says, lies a world of knowledge that is waiting to be understood in its totality. “The 12th Tai Stupa gave his blessings to the concept of this programme. After long discussions, we collaborated with Shovana. Her interest in the project gave all of us monks the propulsion to make the idea a reality. The final results will be for all to see and enjoy, and I am positive the effort will be appreciated,” he says in the calmest manner of being.
Date September 30
Time Kamani Auditorium, 1 Copernicus Marg
Venue 7 pm
Entry Free for all.