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 Mohiniattam by Keiko Okano - Srivatsa Shandilya e-mail: vatsaphoto@gmail.com Photo: Srivatsa Shandilya December 21, 2023 National Gallery of Modern Art, Bengaluru (Ministry of Culture, Government of India) and Indian Council For Cultural Relations, Zonal Office (South), Bengaluru (Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India) in collaboration with Lotus and Chrysanthemum Trust, Bengaluru, who are the promoter of Indian and Japanese art and culture to the Bengaluru audience presented a mesmerizing performance of Mohiniattam by the Japanese dancer Keiko Okano. Disciple of Mohiniattam Guru Nirmala Panikar from Kerala, Okano has dedicated 13 years to mastering this intricate art form.  The performance, graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Tsutomu Nakane, the Consul General of Japan in Bangalore, was a unique and culturally significant event. Keiko Okano's stage presence was captivating as she commenced her performance with a Ganapati Stuti, followed by a Devi Stuti. Her ability to showcase the nuances of Indian classical dance was brilliant. She delved into a Padam based on poet Kalidasa's Kumarasambhavam. In this unique presentation, her mastery over abhinaya and flawless movements in Mohiniattam were commendable. The program concluded with a Chandana Desi Mohiniattam presentation, ending with a Mangalam, leaving the rasikas thoroughly enchanted. The audience, appreciating the evening of pure classical dance, especially admired Keiko Okano, a foreign national excelling in an Indian classical dance form highlighting her dedication to learning and presenting it with finesse. However, while the performance managed to captivate the audience, one potential drawback was the lack of narration or descriptions of the story in Japanese language, which could have enhanced the understanding of the Japanese audience regarding the Indian mythological stories depicted through the performance. It might have provided a more comprehensive experience for all attendees, bridging the cultural gap even further. Nonetheless, Keiko Okano's presentation was commendable, highlighting the universality and beauty of Indian classical dance forms.  Srivatsa Shandilya is a photojournalist and director of International Arts & Cultural Foundation, Bengaluru. |
