The Bhopalites experienced colourful performances from West Bengal here on Sunday at Antarang Hall, Bharat Bhavan under the West Bengal Mahotsav 2014. A poets’ meet was held as a part of the fest. Under the poets meet the poets like Ikram Ali, Anuradha Mahapatra, Sutpa Sengupta, Mandrakanta Sen and Shovan Bhatachharya recited the Bengali poems.
later in the evening, a Chhau Dance performance was presented followed with a splendid Kathak performance leaving the audience enthralled. The Chhau dance by Bengal’s Tarapada Rajak along with his troupe added much charm in the fest. The themes for chhau dance include local legends, folklore and episodes from the two epics Ramayana and Mahabharata and other abstract themes. The protagonists are both classical and mythical, like the lord Shiva, goddess Durga, Kartik, Ganesh, Kirat, Ranana, Mahishasur and others.
Highly decorated masks of various characters are worn by the dancers. These masks conceal the facial expressions of the artists but it helps them to portray the character. Expressions of various emotions through movement of the limbs make the dance as lively like a dance drama. The Chhau dance of Purulia district is one of the most vibrant and colourful art forms. Emerging from martial practice, the Purulia Chhau is a vigorous form of dance drama. A distinctive feature of the dance is the acrobatic use of body and the intricately crafted masks worn by the dancers.
The accompanying musical instruments include the dhol, dhamsa and shehnai. The elaborate masks, costumes and rhythmic drum beats left a lasting impact on the audience. The programme was followed with the Kathak performance by Sohini Debnath. A renowned Kathak performer Sohini has been known for the innovations and perfection she brings in the classical Kathak.
Her excellent command of rhythm, as well as her natural flair for profound expression, marked her performance. Sohini’s exuberance made her Kathak a pleasure to watch, and this quality is largely present in her group also.
Noted for her effortless pirouettes, amazing footwork and wonderful expressions, the dancer won hearts of the audience in Bhopal with her delightful performance. Facial expressions were incorporated with the musical sequences. The dance was kept simple yet innovative. The elegant costume and simple look of the performers was another reason of attraction of the show.