Ram Aagman stands as a testament to Shovana Narayan's unparalleled artistry and her unwavering commitment to preserving India's cultural heritage. Gyaneshwar Dayal witnessed the performance
Renowned classical dancer Shovana Narayan, a Padmashree awardee celebrated for her mesmerising performances, once again captivated audiences with her scintillating dance production “Ram Aagman.” Held on the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Navratri, this spectacle, presented at the Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi, was a testament to Narayan’s dedication to preserving and promoting Indian classical dance forms.
‘Ram Aagman,’ choreographed and directed by Narayan herself along with Lalita Narayan, delved into the timeless tale of Lord Ram, from his birth to Sita’s disappearance into the earth. With a team of 19 skilled dancers from her repertory ASAVARI, Narayan masterfully brought to life lesser-known incidents from Ram’s life, offering a fresh perspective on the epic narrative. The event was graced by esteemed personalities such as Sangita Saxena, Meenakshi Lekhi, Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, and Dr Sandhya Purecha, among others. Their presence underscored the significance of Narayan’s contribution to the cultural landscape of India.
‘Ram Aagman’ was not just a dance performance; it was a rich tapestry of cultural exploration. Through insightful talks by Lady Kishwar Desai and Dr. Alka Pande, the production seamlessly integrated cultural geography and visual arts, shedding light on the influence of Sri Ram’s journey in Punjab and the profound symbolism present in hand-held paintings depicting his darshan.
Narayan’s choreography skillfully portrayed the myriad emotions stirred by Lord Ram’s arrival, from the joyous anticipation of his devotees to the impact on his family and subjects. Her commitment to social messaging was evident as she unearthed new dimensions of the Ram Katha, resonating with audiences on both intellectual and emotional levels.
One of the distinctive elements of “Ram Aagman” was its homage to Goddess Durga, emphasizing the celebration of divine femininity and her pivotal role in the universe. Narayan’s reverence for tradition, coupled with her innovative approach, breathed new life into this timeless tale, making it relevant for contemporary audiences.
The success of ‘Ram Aagman’ owes much to the collective efforts of the talented team behind the scenes. From the soul-stirring music composed by Pt. Jwala Prasad, Pt. Madho Prasad, and Dinesh Parihar to the meticulous lighting by Milind Srivastava, every aspect contributed to the immersive experience.
Narayan’s dedication to her art form is evident in every aspect of “Ram Aagman.” Through her evocative choreography and profound storytelling, she continues to inspire audiences and keep the rich heritage of Indian classical dance alive. As she eloquently puts it, “The absence or the presence of ‘Ramatva’ became evident through various emotions portrayed, offering food for thought to the audiences.”
‘Ram Aagman’ stands as a testament to Shovana Narayan’s unparalleled artistry and her unwavering commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage. With each graceful movement, she not only honours the legacy of Lord Ram but also enriches the cultural tapestry of our nation.
