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 Tritiya Prakriti - A personal reflection - Shantha Rao e-mail: shantha@annapurnadance.com June 11, 2023 On Saturday 22nd May 2023, I went to Kala Sangam Arts Centre in Bradford to see 'Tritiya Prakriti,' an R&D project focusing on gender issues presented by the young talented dancer Santosh Menon (Kshetra Dance Company). It was based on the ancient stories from the Hindu mythology. The first story was from 'The Churning of the Ocean' showing the power seeking demons battling for the immortal nectar. This heart-warming old story was very nostalgic and evoked many memories. The story has a poignant or brilliant reference to gender fluidity as it narrates the transformation of one of the trinities Vishnu into a bewitching female called 'Mohini.' Mohini is a very special character and how she distributes the nectar of immortality makes a fascinating story. When growing up in India, I never thought about it in any depth but today I found its relevance amazing. The opening dance of 'Apsaras' - the celestial nymphs - and bringing the Goddess Lakshmi on to the stage as well as with dancers going round Lakshmi holding pearl necklace was very beautiful to watch. The other intriguing story was chosen from the epic Mahabharata. It was about the hero, warrior Arjuna and his transformation into a dance teacher who was a transgender woman called 'Brihannala.' Dancer Santosh Menon's dance as Brihannala was very moving. Dressed meticulously, Santosh performed his dance with such grace and poise and was a joy to watch.   Santosh Menon as Brihannala Photo credit: Wojcich Kolpak One of the most fascinating features of the production was its costumes. It is an innovative way of paying tribute to Rukmini Devi Arundale, the legendary dancer and the founder of Kalakshetra dance institution in India. Rukmini Devi is credited with giving Bharatanatyam costumes a unique graceful touch. It was an innovative contribution to the dance form. To see Mohini's costume totally inspired by an original design by Rukmini Devi, was a real treat. Not only Mohini's costumes, all other costumes also reflected strong influence by authentic designs of Rukmini Devi. I was transported to Chennai and felt as if I was sitting in the lovely Kalakshetra auditorium watching their dance dramas in the warm twilights of India. There was a fragrance of fresh jasmine in the auditorium imported specially from India. To experience that in a faraway land in Bradford was a real luxury. Rich Carnatic music with mridangam, cymbals and verses composed in Sanskrit language also instilled in me a sense of security that our precious heritage is safe with productions like these. It was heartening to see young dancers from the Yorkshire region were given an opportunity to perform in the curtain raiser. This was greatly appreciated by the local community who had come to support the event. The dance movements of young Bharatanatyam dancers taking part in the production had high level of perfection. Arjun Rakesh's performance in the role of an Asura was riveting while Cameron Joseph was a brilliant choice for Mohini.  Arjun Rakesh and Cameron Joseph Photo credit: Shantha Rao Kudos to Kshetra Dance Company and choreographer Santosh Menon's remarkable attention to details. Santosh Menon has truly succeeded in achieving the goal of his research and development. He should be proud of his production that celebrates the grand heritage of Kalakshetra where he had his own training.  Shantha Rao is the Artistic Director, Annapurna Indian dance, Halifax, UK. She has produced a highly individual style of accessible and enjoyable education work in schools and colleges which is now an inspiration for many young dancers. |
