Neythal - the Continental Shelf by
Lavanya Raghuraman
A
response to "Neythal- the Continental Shelf" - a thematic
Bharatanatyam solo performance
by Lavanya
Raghuraman (disciple of the Dhananjayans)
at
Esplanade Theatre Studio, Singapore on 19Feb, 2011
Padma Bhushan Dhananjayans, |
I am delighted to write to you both
in conveying my happiness after watching Lavanya Raghuraman's “Neithal”
at Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre on 19th Feb 11. You’re the mentors and
creators of this young and upcoming talent, my sincere appreciation of
your efforts and contribution to the revered art of Bharathanatyam.
“Neithal” is yet another innovative
concept and it was presented with charm, elegance and substance.
It was a showcase of the coastal culture, rising tides wrestling with the
rocks, coastal life springing with joy and enchanting evenings. It was
poetry in motion, poetry from Silapathikaram, Kalithokai, Ashtapathi, and
folk from a foreign land.
The folk item presented by Lavanya
was a gripping piece indeed, and it was thoroughly entertaining.
I noted some reverence to the presentation of this item which seldom prevails
on folk.
Witnessing the numerous "arangetrams"
in London, question often raised in conversation is the future of Indian
art outside India. But Lavanya’s presentation seals the doubts and sets
the direction and gives us the confidence that Bharathanatyam and the allied
Indian arts will flourish beyond borders. Indian art will become richer
in the years to follow and it will expand to encompass wider cultures and
literature, still retaining the traditional values and discipline. (Lavanya's
adoption of poetry from Africa is yet another pleasant trend to note).
I convey my sincere tribute to you
both, the artist and her team for presenting this performance. “Neithal”
is one of the landmark performances I have watched.
Dhananjayans, you both are indeed
contributing in shaping the values and richness of the wider world and
the effects are indeed far reaching beyond artistic values.
Wishing you all the best for your
noble pursuit,
Suppiah Thayakaran
Singapore
27/2/11
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