Veterans gather for a memorable recital
VINU VASUDEVAN
|
Some of the living legends of Kathakali got together to stage `Santhanagopalam.'
|
OF HOPE AND PIETY: A scene from `Santhanagopalam.'
A star-studded `Santhanagopalam' was staged at Melputhur Auditorium in Guruvayur recently. Living legends in Kathakali such as Kalamandalam Ramankutty Nair, Kalamandalam Padmanabhan Nair, Kottakkal Sreeraman, Kalamandalam Gopi, Kalamandalam Appukuttipothuval, Kalamandalam Kesavan and Kalamandalam Sankaran Enbranthiri made it an unforgettable experience for the audience. The performance was a kind of offering to Lord Guruvayoorappan.
`Santhanagopalam' an attakatha written by Mandavappally Ettirarissa Menon was part of the Bhagavatham. The story depicts the sorrow and devotion of a Brahmin who had lost eight of his children. Ramankutty Nair, the senior-most of the team, donned the role of Arjuna. Although the octogenerian looked a little weak, probably because this role is not among his master pieces, it never reflected on his performance.
Padmanabhan Nair, the last disciple and son of Pattikkamthodi Ravunni Menon, efficiently handled the role of `Brahmana,' which is one of his best. The contribution of the late Padmasree Vazhenkada Kunju Nair towards the structuring of this character (Brahmana) played an important role in the depiction of this play. Padmanabhan Nair portrayed this character in keeping with the techniques of Kunju Nair and his guru. It was a rare chance for Kathakali viewers to see his performance once more. The purity of `Kalluvaichitta' was the highlight of his portrayal.
Kottakkal Sivaraman's portrayal of `Brahmana patni' (wife of the Brahmana) stood out for many aspects. Inspite of the limitations of the character, Sivaraman excelled in his role.
The role of Krishna was enacted by Kalamandalam Gopi. Right from the first scene, he captured the hearts of the audience.
In the percussion section, Kalamandalam Appukutty Pothuval marvellously played on the madhalam. Kalamandalam Kesvan accompanied on the chenda. The melodious voice of Sankaran Embranthiri enriched the recital.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Entertainment
Bangalore
Chennai and Tamil Nadu
Delhi
Hyderabad
Thiruvananthapuram
