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Hamsadwani Ramachandran - VP Dhananjayan from New York e-mail: bkalanjali@gmail.com May 30, 2007  Thanks to Narthakionline and Kutcheribuzz who connect us with our homeland. But for the flash news in Narthaki & KutcheriBuzz, I would not have known about this great man's demise on May 24, 2007, all of a sudden. A rude shock to me who admired Mr. Ramachandran for his interest in promoting young talents in music and later on branching off to Bharatanaatyam and other naatya traditions. He had his own way of functioning, undeterred by any comments, he continued to hold the Hamsadwani flag aloft. What I admired in him the most was his pungent speeches with good humour. We could listen to him speaking on many occasions. Of course his passion was Carnatic music and the present generation of excellent musicians owe a great deal to this connoisseur of a patron who will be remembered by all of us artistes for long. We convey our heartfelt sorrow and message of condolence to the bereaved family members. I wish I was in Chennai to pay my tribute and homage on his last journey. All the same, no doubt his soul will rest in peace listening to his favourite MS amma by his side. Bharatanatyam gurus VP Dhananjayan and Shanta Dhananjayan are the directors of Bharata Kalaanjali, Chennai. June 2, 2007 In 2002, Sri Ramachandran along with his team had started to support the idea of offering opportunities to dancers to perform at the Hamsadhwani Sabha / Youth Hostel Stage. We were one of the earlier dance troupes to stage a group production on a humble stage, but to a very warm and inviting community of Indira Nagar in Chennai. We presented 'Sacred Geometry' and it was received with much enthusiasm by the well attended audience. After that year, he gave us opportunities two more years in a row and treated each member of our company (artists from India and USA) with utmost respect and care. Our sincere gratitude and regards to Sri Ramchandran's family. Thank you! Malathi Iyengar is artistic director, Rangoli Foundation, California malathisiyengar@gmail.com / www.rangoli.org |
