Endearing interpretations
RUPA SRIKANTH
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Heroes of Hindu mythology came alive as Kalavardhini students presented three plays.
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WHOLESOME PRESENTATION: Students of Kalavardhini.
Dressed in the finery typically associated with mythological characters, the children of Kalavardhini brought to life the heroism of young Prahalada, Rama and Krishna in three separate plays at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. If the spontaneous applause from the audience was anything to go by, the little actors between the ages of 3 and 12 were a big hit. Charming in their manner and endearing in their interpretations, they managed to convey the essence of the Puranas without losing their natural effervescence. It was refreshing to see the children remain children.
Directed by theatre-director Prasanna, the plays incorporated dialogue, music and dance in a wholesome representation of Indian culture. There were many memorable moments in each presentation, like the dramatic entry of Lord Narasimha and Bhakta Prahlada, the amusing Sita Swayamvara and the endearing play of baby Krishna.
As an extension of the Vedic Heritage Teaching Programme, the plays reinforced the children's knowledge of the Puranas, while giving them an opportunity to understand the characters better.
The children, about 58 of them, had just been through a theatre workshop where they were taken through the nuances of theatre and communication. They also learnt to work together in a spirit of fun. This is only a part of what they do at Kalavardhini, centre for the promotion of Indian art, culture and heritage, based in Kotturpuram. Besides the programme for the children, classes for adults are also conducted on yoga, Sanskrit, bhajans and chanting. A home study of the Bhagavad Gita is also facilitated. There is a well-stocked library with books and tapes.
A centre for vedavriddhi has been established, where lectures on philosophy, religion, health and fitness take place regularly. The vision is to establish a unique and enduring venture where students, teachers and families come together to promote and preserve the Hindu way of life.
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