Brilliant show of talent
RAJASREE WARRIER
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Sheeja Sivadas' Kuchipudi recital skilfully interpreted the sahitya.
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INNOVATIVE INTERPRETATION: Sheeja Sivadas strikes a pose. PHOTO: S. MAHINSHA
Sheeja Sivadas' Kuchipudi recital at Vyloppilli Samskriti Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram showcased the choreographic brilliance of Padmabhushan Dr. Vempatti Chinna Satyam, the unquestionable master of Kuchipudi. A teacher and performer of Malayala Kala Gramam, New Mahe, Sheeja began with an invocation to Lord Ganesha.
`Gaja vadana' in raga Hamsadwani, set to Adi tala, is a composition of Purandaradasa. `Vrindavana nilaye radhe' in raga Ritigaula describes Radha, Krishna's beloved. In order to convey the implied meaning of the sahitya, it is said that an artiste has to rise above mere technicalities and regulations imposed by the art form. Sheeja's effort to interpret the sahitya was quite laudable.
This was followed by `Bhamakalapam,' considered a masterpiece that encompasses Dr. Chinna Satyam's creative brilliance. Here the nayika, Bhama, is seen in conversation with her confidante and friend Madhavi. The piece characterised a fine blend of graceful charis and striking poses. Since the heroine enters the stage in the nadai (walking posture), the `misra nadai' in which the item was set, proved to be apt. The item has been composed in such a way that there is no need for an additional introduction about the nayika. The movements speak volumes about the character of the impulsive Satyabhama.
While presenting this enthralling piece, Sheeja's experience as a troupe member of Dr. Chinna Satyam's dance-drama presentations, during her training period in Chennai, came to the fore.
Ashtapadi, the next item, provided ample scope for mukhabhinaya. This again had its share of stylised nritta or pure dance. `Sanchararadhara sudha madhuradhwani' seeks to present Radha, who is `virahotkhanditha' (plunged in deep sorrow on account of her separation from Krishna).
Strung on a garland of ragas, the piece stood out for its skilful presentation. The `Sivashtakam' was the last item. One could get glimpses of both the Tandava and lasya aspects of Siva's cosmic dance through the choreography.
Sheeja was accompanied on nattuvangam by Vikas. The entire team was from Kalagramam. Bindu Suresh provided vocal support. Payyanur Rajan and V.V. Rajiv accompanied on the mridangam and the violin respectively.
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