Dance lovers in Delhi were fortunate enough to partake of rare moments from the Bharatanatyam performance by legendary dancer Vyjayanthimala Bali a couple of days ago at Kamani Auditorium that was organised by the Pandit Chaturlal Memorial Society. Saritha Saraswathy Balan was present
Even at this age, she still blushes like a teenager while on stage donning the role of an ardent devotee to the lord. Her eyes twinkle, as she meets her lover. Her ecstasy when she steps in tune with the devotional song is felt even by one seated on the last row in the auditorium. Her face radiates happiness, with each expressive feature partaking of her sinuous movements.
Vyjayanthimala -the doe-eyed performer- sprang a pleasant surprise on art lovers with her elegantly vibrant moves, never missing a beat and in perfect tandem with the accompanying youthful vocals of the highly talented Girija Shankar. When she bowed in reverence before the Almighty, it was nothing short of a perfect offering of utmost devotion to the Creator. The applauding audience latched on to the amazing grace that the octogenarian dancer exuded with charming ease.
The danseuse then went on to speak a few words: “My wonderful and respectful Delhi audience, It is not me who does this, but an invisible power who leads me along with every move. I am humbled by the admiration and appreciation bestowed on me wherever I have the fortune to perform.” Shruti Chatur lal, the grand-daughter of tabla maestro Pandit Chaturlal who played the perfect host of the event aptly described the danseuse as “a pure artist with absolutely no ego whatsoever. Art alone matters to her.”
Vyjayanthimala was later presented with the Pandit Chaturlal Excellence Award instituted by the Pandit Chaturlal Memorial Society. This was in the presence of none other than Pandit Birju Maharaj-leading Kathak exponent. “Her eyes speak her heart, her mudras speak her voice in the most proficient way and her smile does the rest. I have been fortunate enough to be around so many legends but she has a special place among them. So down to earth, so delicate, it seems goddess herself has come and resided in her”, Shruti says about the artist’.
This year is particularly important for the Society as it marks the 90th birth anniversary of the tabla wizard, as well as the completion of a quarter of a century by the Society in its sustained endeavour in the country’s cultural scenario to promote Indian classical art at all levels.
The event also witnessed ‘Amar Jyoti’ Concert which was a musical tribute in honour of the unknown and unacknowledged soldiers who have long fought to uphold the glory and integrity of our nation. The concert is part of a series that was launched with the screening of a short documentary film on Pandit Chatur lal. The documentary named ‘Journey of Pandit Chatur lal’ has narratives about the maestros who have performed in the Society’s annual event for the past 25 years including Ustad Bismillah Khan, Ustad Vilayat Khan, Ustad Alla Rakha, to name a few.. This was followed by a music ensemble ‘Taal Junction’ dedicated by Pranshu Chatur lal –grandson of the late tabla artist.
The musical concert also featured a ‘Jugalbandi’ by sarod maestros Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, ably accompanied by Pranhsu Chatur lal on the tabla.