It was endearing to see an Assamese girl, Babita Phukan Handique, master the techniques of a South Indian dance form Kuchipudi, as she shone brightly during her first solo recital, at the Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi.
Babita is the senior disciple of Guru Meenu Thakur, who has devoted her life to Kuchipudi dance. Babita brought in immense energy and immaculate expressions into her dance. Beginning her recital with the Ganesh Stuti, which was penned by noted Sanskrit scholar Dr Jeet Ram Bhatt, Babita excelled in the traditional Kuchipudi items like Jatiswaram, Javali and Tarangam.
The musical accompaniment was mesmerizing as the Nattuvangam of Guru Meenu Thakur matched the brilliant work on the Mridangam by Tanjavur Kesavan and the Violin melody of Chembai Srinivas.
Vocalist T.J. Rupa and Veena player Shyamala Bhaskar were flawless. The programme was graced by Commando Surender Singh, MLA and Member NDMC. He appreciated the efforts of Guru Meenu Thakur and encouraged the young dancer Babita. Dr Subramaniam, former Director General of Police and eminent Gurus Vanashree Rao and Nalini-Kamalini, were Guests of honour.