CHENNAI: Certain tales need to be told over and over again for posterity — be it historical, legendary or mythological.
One such tale is that of Rukmini Kalyanam — the romantic mythological legend of how Lord Krishna comes to the rescue of Vidarba princess Rukmini, when Rukmi, her brother arranges for her marriage with Shisupala.
On her wedding day, Rukmini willingly participates in a daring abduction and marries Lord Krishna against her brother’s wishes.
The ballet, which was organised on the last day of the Saptaha of the week-long Srimad Bhagavatamahotsavam at Krishnaswami Kalyana Mandapam was vibrant in every sense.
Coinciding with the last day of the holy month of Margazhi, the ballet was co-ordinated by Ambika Buch, a retired senior professor from Kalakshetra and her dance company, Aradhana Dance Troupe.
The scene started off with Lord Krishna surrounded by His devotees, the gopikas, who sing the glory of the Lord.
He learns of Rukmini’s devotion and love for Him, even though He is already acquainted with the fact. Rukmini is then introduced through a veil (yavanika) in typical Kuchipudi tradition.
Preparations are on for her wedding with Shisupala and she seeks the help of an old Brahmin priest to convey her love for the Lord to him.
On the day of the wedding, Rukmini is shown waiting and yearning for Lord Krishna to come to her rescue.
And so does she get abducted and a duel follows between Lord Krishna and Rukmi. Rukmini saves her brother from death at Krishna’s hands.
Eventually, Rukimini ties the knot with Lord Krishna and proceeds to the kingdom of Dwaraka.
The verses for the ballet were chosen from Narayaneeyam and Srimad Bhagvatam, set to music by Bhagavatulu Seetharama Sharma.
Madhusudhanan as Krishna and Varsha as Rukmini put up a stellar performance along with the rest of the troupe.