Rendering a classic style

Dr Ananda Shankar needs no introduction and a performance of her student is definitely a treat to watch. A Bharatanatyam recital featuring Harshitha Kaja was conducted on Saturday at Shilparamam. Having done her Arangetram in 2013, training in the exacting kalakshetra style she has steadily matured as an extremely strong, energetic,

graceful and sensitive dancer imbibing the clear angashuddam and split second tala precision, precise footwork and nuanced abhinaya that are the hallmarks of her guru. She is presently studying in Class XII and is the proud recipient of the national scholarship awarded by Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT).

The performance commenced with a pushpanjali indicating offering of flowers to the Lord, paying the dancer's respects to the guru, the orchestra and audience. It was followed by Ganesha Vandana. Clarity of line and meticulous rendering of footwork marked this item. Jayadeva composed “Dashavataram” in ‘Geeta Govinda’.

The 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu are described following the prelude, a prayer to Lord Krishna. In Ragamalika, intricate Jathi patterns set to Swara notations and Sanchari Abhinaya for the Sanskrit sloka passages set to various ragas together portrayed the rasas and brought out the mood of divine bhakti.

A keertanam in latangi evoked the sentiment of wonder or "Adbutha". Even Parvathi watches Shiva's dance, which is accompanied by an ensemble lead by Brahma, the creator. To watch his dance is to attain salvation. Crystal clear recorded music containing stellar vocal by Venu Madhav pleased the audience.