'Tantu' enthralls Classic Dance Lovers
5 Feb 2017 3:03 PM GMT
The national capital witnessed a grand Odissi dance saga 'Tantu' by Madhur Gupta at CP Deshmukh Auditorium, India International Centre. The legendary dance couples, Raja and Radha Reddy (Padma Bhushan) were the chief guests of the delightfully traditional dance eve. The spectacular event was attended by Guru Sharon Lowen, Padma Shri Guru Madhavi Mudgal, Dr Kamalini Dutt and many more such eminent faces.
Dancer and writer, Madhur Gupta's resounding performance made a subtle impression on the minds of the audience who were enjoying the show with full attention and curiosity. Whereas, Madhur Gupta did full justice – bringing together three generations of artistic sensibilities.
Showered in sweat and jubilation, Madhur Gupta said, "I feel proud to perform before Raja and Radha Reddy, their and my Gurus' sheer presence was motivating me throughout the recital, and I am thankful to Guru Sharon Lowen and Guru Madhavi Mudgal for transforming my dreams into reality. 'Tantu' wouldn't have been possible without their firm support."
Speaking on the occasion Guru Sharon Lowen said, "Today I am feeling very proud to see the efforts and hard work of my disciple Madhur
Gupta. He will go far."
Raja and Radha Reddy, chief guests of the event also appreciated the efforts of Madhur Gupta.
Some of the most creative performances of 'Tantu' were:
- Manikya Veena (Mangalacharan), Choreography (1965) – The dancer enters the stage and offers a traditional invocation to Mother earth for her support followed by a song in praise of the Goddess of learning and music, Saraswati in her form as Matanga. Holding a bejeweled Veena, four armed, the moon in her hair, lotus eyed, bearing weapons, with the graceful gait of the elephant. This song is followed by the threefold salutation to God, the teacher and the distinguished audience.
- Rajanigandha (Pallavi) Choreography (2016) - Pallavi is a lyrical elaboration of rhythmic, melodic and movement themes. It is considered the most graceful and lyrical form of "pure" or abstract dance in the Odissi repertoire. Like the tender shoots of a tree sprouting and branching, the movement theme is elaborated with rhythmic and melodic variations. Rajanigandha literally means one that is 'fragrant at night'.
- Akin to the sweet smelling flower which blossoms at night and spreads its intoxicating smell slowly; this Pallavi set in a night time raga Odiya Kedar opens up with gradual movements, developing and steadily overpowering the senses with intricate patterns created in music and space.
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