SAMASRAVA: An Ode to Classical Heritage beautifully celebrated Indian classical dance, showcasing its enduring relevance and emotional depth through dynamic performances, says Sakshi Priya
Indian classical dance is a beautiful and spiritual form of expression that connects the artist to the divine. SAMASRAVA: An Ode to Classical Heritage was a stunning tribute to this tradition, offering a rich, immersive experience for the audience at Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre. The performances were not only visually captivating but emotionally resonant, bringing out the timeless relevance of these art forms in today’s world.
The evening opened with Arunima Ghosh’s Odissi performance, which immediately captured the audience’s attention. Her graceful movements and deep emotional connection to the piece were evident throughout. In Yahi Madhava, she portrayed Radha’s inner turmoil and vulnerability with such sensitivity that it left a lasting impact. The subtlety of her facial expressions and the fluidity of her movements beautifully conveyed Radha’s frustration and sorrow, giving the audience a glimpse into the emotional complexity of the character.
Vinod Kevin Bachan’s performance, Devi Mahamaya: The Rise of the Divine Shakti, was a powerful display of strength and grace. Bachan’s portrayal of Durga embodied the goddess’s divine energy and formidable presence. Each movement exuded confidence, reflecting the unstoppable force of the feminine divine. The intensity of his performance reminded the audience of the spiritual power that classical dance can convey and how it can bring mythological stories to life in a way that resonates deeply.
Arohi Munshi’s Bharatnatyam pieces also made a strong impression. In Shringara Lahiri, she captured the essence of the goddess through fluid movements and expressions that spoke to the beauty and rhythm of the divine. Her portrayal of Yashoda calling out to Krishna in Krishna ni begane baro was equally deep. The tenderness in her gestures and expressions beautifully conveyed the maternal love of Yashoda, drawing the audience into the emotional world of the character.
Diksha Rawat’s Kathak performance concluded the evening, bringing the rhythm and dynamism of the art form to the forefront. Her Taal Ashtamangal was a brilliant demonstration of her technical skill, with intricate footwork and rhythmic precision that left the audience in wonder. Her second piece, a traditional Banaras Gharana thumri, was emotionally charged as she portrayed Radha’s plea to Krishna. The intensity of her abhinaya and the complexity of the rhythm made this performance a fitting finale to the evening.
What made SAMASRAVA special was the variety of classical dance forms, each showcasing its unique style, yet all communicating the same emotional and spiritual depth. The dancers not only demonstrated their technical brilliance but also their ability to tell compelling stories through movement, emotion and expression. The evening was a celebration of the enduring relevance of Indian classical dance, a reminder that these ancient art forms continue to evoke deep emotions and speak to the human experience in ways that resonate today.
This event was a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of classical dance and its ability to connect audiences with the divine, the emotional and the eternal. SAMASRAVA reaffirmed the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage while making it accessible to contemporary audiences. The performances were a beautiful reflection of the grace and spiritual power of classical dance, leaving the audience with a sense of wonder and appreciation for these timeless art forms.
Photo: Pankaj Kumar
