Rasika Dance Ensemble will host Sampradaya-Rediscovering traditions, a Bharathanatyam presentation in the city under the initiative of Kiran Subramanyam on December 3. The show challenges the traditional concept within the Bharathanatyam idiom. On the eve of the show, Kiran Subramanyam interacted with City Express about this initiative, and shed some light on eccentric dance movements included in the show.
Expressing his opinion about challenging the traditional concept, he said that constant change and new adaptations are required to stand the test of time. He explains, “Bharatanatyam is a complex art form. It is heavy in its content. This is an initiative to bring the classical art form to common man, without diluting the traditional format. In Sampradaya we are bringing in four different types of dance movements. Arambham gives a glimpse of what the art of Bharathanatyam is all about. This performance has a scientific base which includes physics when the dancers explore the space and also mathematics while concentrating on Laya (beats).”
Explaining about the other movements included in the show he added, “The second division being the group choreography is a lyrical piece which is loaded with expressions and emotions. It was challenging to choreograph this piece, as this is mostly performed as a solo item. Expressions have to be justified, though we bring in a group of people to dance for it.”
Shivapadam, which is the third division of the programme is inclusive of many permutations and combinations and intricate steps. Kiran said that Shiva is considered to be a cosmic dancer and hence there is an endeavour to bring forth a celestial experience to the audience. He also explained that this form of dance is juxtaposed to Abhinaya.
He further explained that Thani Avarthanam is not usually included in the classical dance, and is more familiar in Carnatic classical music. He said, “We have tried to incorporate it into the dance performances. Each dance group comprising four to five dancers, would represent one instrument. They try to create the question and answers with their movements, at the end of which the harmonious movements are created.”
“This is a kind of revolution that I am trying to bring about. The focus is to reach the youth. They are the ones who carry it forward. There should be newer approach. We are trying to explore within the boundaries set in the ancient times,” he opined.
When asked about the contemporary art form taking over the classical dance forms, he concluded, “There are many youngsters who are dedicating their time and attention to classical dance forms. Today we are giving them an opportunity to question and think unlike before.”
