A delightful dance performance

Srinivasa Kuchipudi Art Academy presented the Rangapravesham of Sanjana Siripurapu, a young and talented student of Padma Shri Dr Sobha Naidu during the weekend at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. Needless to say, the student of the renowned guru was groomed to high levels of professionalism. Sanjana is a X class student at Chaitanya. Inducted into Kuchipudi at the age of five she has been a part of group ensembles and performed at prestigious venues of Konark dance festival, SICA, TANA etc.

She also takes keen interest in Carnatic music, painting and literature. She started with 'Pranavakaram' an invocatory item to Lord Ganesha in Arabhi. Her statuesque poses delighted the audience.' Koluviunnade' was in Lathangi. The stances of the artiste depicting Shiva as Nataraja were magnificent. She was like a chiselled sculpture in her effortless poses holding the audience's interest throughout.'

Alokhaye Sri Bala Krishnam ' in Ragamalika, a Tarangam by saint Narayana Tirtha was the essential hallmark item of the Kuchipudi repertoire involving complex Jatis executed while balancing on the rim of a brass plate. The expressive abhinaya of the artiste showing the pranks of young Krishna was marvellous to behold. Beautiful dancing Krishna is lovingly described. An excerpt from Bhamakalapam in Arabhi and Mohanam was included. This featured the letter writing scene of the proud Satyabhama who sends an entreating letter to her estranged Lord containing her ardent pleas for reunion.

Melodious lyrics herald forthcoming auspicious events which lift the gloom of Satyabhama. The shades of delightful feelings were delicately expressed.' Mangambudi Hanumantha ' in Dharmavati was specially choreographed by her guru for the occassion. It was elegantly performed by Sanjana. Hanuman and his devoted services to Lord Rama and his valour in battle featured. Hanuman who had the capacity to grow to immense stature and slay the asura Mahiravana.' Vanipondu' in Kanada Raagam was the usual Nayika based item to round of the main body of the program. This was a Javali by Dharmapuri depicting the heroine's rejection of her beloved.

A brisk Thillana in Kadanakuthuhalam was energetically presented by the artiste as the event concluded. The superb orchestra with Nattuvangam by Dr Sobha Naidu and Raghunandan, Vocal by Sudha and the other senior artistes were outstanding adding lustre. Sirivennala Sitaramasastry and KV Ramanachari graced the function. It is hoped that Sanjana will continue in her dancing career to greater heights and accomplishments.

-Anna rao