Ramayanam retold

CHENNAI: The Thanjavur Sisters -- Anusha and Sowmya -- delivered an interesting presentation of Bharathanatyam. They managed to capture the audience’s attention, when they performed for the Brahma Gana Sabha at the Petachi Auditorium, establishing themselves as ‘Bharathanatyam duo’ of considerable merit. It was indeed a sight to see their depiction of ‘Ramayanam’ through composition (Bhavayami Raghuramam) of Swati Thirunal, with soft blossoming forth of music and dance, ending in a ‘crescendo’. The various postures in Ramayanam, depicted through colourful ragas of Saveri, Natakurinji, Danyasi, Mohanam, Mukhari, Poorvikalyani and Madhyamavathi, captured the story of Rama and was a treat to watch. The inherent talent expressed was revealed by the duo when they brought out the message of ‘Swati Thirunal’ in ‘Ramayana’, with innate spontaneity, coupled with well trained footwork and Bava.Vishamakara Kannan was taken next.  It was a delightful composition of Oothukadu Venkatakavi in Raga Senchurutti. It depicted the playful Krishna at his best. The Thillana in Raga Hindolam with scintillating rhythmic cadences, and their creative elaboration, working up effects through rhythmic variations, was exemplary.The presentation with aesthetic sensitivity and the blending of the tune, won them all credits. A special mention for Nattuvangam and choreography by Guru Sivakumar and vocal support of Sashidaran, in the company of Karthikeyan (Mridangam), Vijayaraghavan (violin), Sruti Sagar (Flute).[email protected]