Review - Creative grace: Solo Bharatanatyam by Rukmini Vijaykumar

Creative grace: Solo Bharatanatyam by Rukmini Vijaykumar
- Anvi
e-mail: hereisanvi@gmail.com
Photo copyright: Rukmini Vijayakumar

November 24, 2019

London audience was treated to the creative grace of dancer Rukmini Vijayakumar who presented her solo production 'Abhimata' at The Bhavan, London. Abhimata is a production which explores the different layers of shringara-love, through the different stories and characters of our Puranas and mythology. What one took back home the most was the freshness and the creativity in the interpretation of the pieces presented.

Opening with an Ardhanareeshwara stuti, Rukmini established her powerful command over her technique and her strong control on her expressions. The subtle differences shown between the smiles of Shiva and Parvati, their stance, and their energy came across beautifully. The popular varnam, "Innum yen manam" stood out for its endearing depiction of the Gopika, her simplicity, her moments of searching, yearning for Krishna, her innocent enthusiasm and anticipation as she knocks on his door and asks for him. The treatment of the jathis was creative as well, especially the opening one which was completely woven around raindrops.

The next piece was a dialogue between Shiva and Parvati. Parvati is upset that Shiva no longer spends time with her, no longer gets her flowers. The countering by Shiva and their back and forth dialogue made for a delightfully light hearted watch with him imploring her to express the real reason of her anger; and her final complaint, of him being with Ganga always, which was the actual reason of her anger, brought about a canny response from him making the entire episode very relatable.

The next piece was the much loved Tulsidas Ram Bhajan, and here again the interpretation and the choreography left one wanting for more. The entire bhajan showed the journey of Rama's love for Sita, starting with their meeting, their wedding, the exile in the forest, the kidnapping by Ravana, their return to Ayodhya and the Agni Pariksha which he puts her to, after which she returns to the earth's lap. The depiction of Rama's emotions through the various episodes was convincing. His sorrows, anger, and his frustrations carried the same dignity, composure and poise which is associated with Rama's character.

The finale Thillana in Kadana Kuthuhala was one of aplomb. Crisp movements, fresh narratives, and her trademark choreographic style induced much cheer, appreciation and applause by the audience.

Anvi is a Bharatanatyam dancer, visual artist, writer, actress/filmmaker from Bangalore, based in London on an exceptional Talent Endorsement by Arts Council England. She is the founder and director of Mid Light Productions, an independent film company specifically set up to create dance and art films.