Posted by Harish Krishnaswamy (71.80.169.48) on October 13, 2006 at 23:09:58:

In Reply to: Wondering about Ramaa Bharadvaj's Review posted by Dancer on October 13, 2006 at 20:03:59:

As a fellow audience member, the recently posted review by Rama Bharadwaj did not go down too well with me.

I do not agree with the "Polish jokes in Poland" comment on several levels. Firstly, the American society is not the ONLY society that looks down upon pedophilia and wanton adultery that one must fear to tread on such subject matter - the Indian society does as well. In fact, I feel that comment, more than any Bharatanatyam performance, perpetuates the myth that these acts are considered acceptable in India.

Such an objection would never be raised in India because there is a tacit understanding that these pieces are merely depictions of mythology and do not represent the views and opinions of the artistes. Further, Indian mythology is not alone in its weak depiction of women and difficult subject matter - Greek mythology is rife with stories of macho heros sowing their oats and having their way. A society that understands that storylines of Greek mythology do not reflect the sensibilities of modern Greek society should have no problem wrapping their heads around a similar conclusion vis-a-vis India. Even if there is a problem a post-performance Q&A session was held just for that purpose!

With regards to the comment that the performance may not have been family entertainment, I believe the brochure was extremely upfront about the nature of the content. If family fun is what you desire, catch the latest animated flick at the local multiplex and allow artistes to perform sans unreasonable censorship! Also beware: the TV shows that do the rounds of the local television channels are probably doing far more damage to your children, not only because they are as explicit, but also because they are actually meant to be representations of modern society.

A final point - a review from a senior dancer would be of great help to youngsters trying to make it in the field if it actually commented on their technical skills. A reviewer is ofcourse entitled to his/her opinion on the subject matter, but I believe the dancers would have also appreciated feedback.

   
   



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