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 Remembering Guru B Bhanumathi - Kavya Kasinathan e-mail: kavyakasinathanv@yahoo.co.in Photos: VB Suresh October 11, 2023 Guru B Bhanumathi is a legendary dancer and Guru who has been a role model and inspired several dancers of the art fraternity. Archana and Chetana, the twin duo who have had the fortune of learning under her able guidance presented a befitting tribute to her through their captivating performance at Seva Sadan on September 20th in a one of its kind program hosted by Ananya - 'A Tribute to Guru B Bhanumathi'. Their neat and devotional presentation showcased the beauty of traditional jathis and their graceful adavus that brimmed with energy, joy and expressive eye movements was a treat to watch.  Beginning with a traditional Pushpanjali choreographed by Guru Savithri Jagannatha Rao, they invoked the divine presence and blessings of Vigna Vinayaka with the popular Vakratunda chant. A crisp and captivating presentation of the popular Lalgudi G Jayaraman composition "Devar munivar thozhum" varnam followed the energetic Pushpanjali. The refreshing duet choreography with skillful portrayal of mirror effects and movements added charm to the presentation. The varnam also brought out the joy of rhythmic vibrancy with each Thattumettu, Muktayam and Arathis being delivered with umpteen amount of mathematical precision. The creative Krishna-Gopika poses, tableaus depicting different leelas of Krishna and the Dasavatara were noteworthy. Archana then presented a padam depicting an undaunted Nayika who bravely exclaims her abundant love for her beloved irrespective of the jealous rumours she hears from others. She says "Yaarukaagilum bhayama summa sollattum" (I am not scared of anyone, let them keep talking)! Archana's subtle abhinaya and mature depiction of this strong Nayika brought out her proficiency.  This was followed by a moving depiction of a love stricken Radha by Chetana. "Sakhi hey" was her chosen Ashtapadi, to which she did full justice with her expressive eyes and skilful abhinaya. The episode of Kalinga Narthanam which was masterfully weaved into a short jathi in a Purandara Dasa Devaranama describing the joyous dance of Krishna added vibrancy to the presentation. Culminating with the Guru Ashtakam, their performance was a true testimony of the passion, knowledge and humility passed down to everyone by Guru B. Bhanumati. Their sincere, dedicated and devotional performance provided a surreal conclusion to the evening leaving each rasika soaked in the bliss of witnessing an enchanting performance.  Kavya Kasinathan is a Bharatanatyam dancer and a passionate writer. She has completed her Masters in English Literature and Dance and is currently a freelance writer. |
