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 'Neelotsavam' celebrates Guru Neela Ramgopal - Srivatsa Shandilya e-mail: vatsaphoto@gmail.com Photos: Srivatsa Shandilya June 13, 2024 The grand valedictory function of the year-long celebration, 'Neelotsavam,' honored the esteemed Guru Neela Ramgopal. This festival, held as a tribute on her birth anniversary, featured a series of musical performances by her disciples over the past year and culminated in a mesmerizing display of classical dance - the only dance program in the series. This unique event was a fitting homage to her legendary contributions to Indian classical arts. Acclaimed dancer duo Veena and Dhanya, who have been dedicated to learning and performing classical arts for over three decades, took center stage at the event. Known for their impeccable abhinaya and adherence to classical techniques, the sisters showcased their extensive training in Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, and Carnatic music. They are disciples of celebrated Gurus, including Narmada and Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam for Bharatanatyam, Guru Kalamandalam Kshemavathy for Mohiniyattam, Neela Ramgopal for Carnatic music, and Manju Bhargavee for Kuchipudi. The evening commenced with a Ganesha Stuthi, a composition by Swarnavenkatesha Dikshitar, followed by the Navavidha Bhakthi, vividly depicted by Veena and Dhanya. This performance, based on their own concept and understanding of Navavidha Bhakthi, was developed during their musical journey under Guru Neela Ramgopal. Through classical dance, they brought to life the nine forms of devotion as described in Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 7, through the lens of Prahlada's story, showcasing the rigorous training they received from Neela Ramgopal.  Karthikeyan as young Prahlada The performance continued with a Kirtanam, celebrating the divine name of Sriman Narayana through the story of Poonthanam, a devoted bhakta of Guruvayoorappan. This was followed by Smaranam, reflecting on Narayana with a rendition of Purandaradasa's "Hari smarane mado" in ragam Atana, portraying Bhakta Prahlada's unwavering devotion. Next was Pada-sevanam, symbolizing the service to the Lord's feet, with Muthuswamy Dikshitar's composition in Jyothiswaroopini. Archanam, the act of offering worship, featured the tale of Manjula's devotion to Guruvayoorappan, beautifully conveyed through expressive dance. The evening also showcased Thyagaraja's evergreen composition "Tulasidala" in raga Mayamalavagowla and Annamayya's "Vande Vasudevam" in Sree ragam, with Gajendra Moksham depicted in a poignant performance. Dasyam, or servitude to the divine, brought to life Kanakadasa's longing to see Udupi Krishna with "Vasa Udupili," from the kriti "Baaro Krishnayya." Sakhyam, the friendship with the divine, was illustrated through the story of Kuchela's blessings from Krishna, performed to Mysore Vasudevacharya's "Ninne nammithinayya" in Simhendra Madhyama. The climax of the recital was Atmanivedanam, the total surrender, exemplified through the story of Tulaka Nachiyar or Biwi Nachiyar during the Mughal invasion of Srirangam, ending with the devotional Thiruppavai.  Veena and Dhanya Veena and Dhanya's 90-minute non-stop performance, alongside their disciples, was a captivating blend of Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam. Their dedication to their Guru Neela Ramgopal shone through every gesture and expression, creating a memorable and heartfelt tribute. The program was further enriched by the talented musical ensemble, including nattuvangam by Ashwin Nair, soulful singing by Nandakumar Unnikrishnan, mridangam by Janardhan Rao, flute by Mahesha S, rhythm pad by Karthik Vythadri, and lighting by Nagraj TM. A special highlight of the evening was the participation of four-year-old Karthikeyan, who played the role of Bhakta Prahlada. Despite losing his earring during the performance, his unwavering focus and spirited portrayal earned him applause from the audience. 'Neelotsavam' was a fitting culmination to a year of celebrations, drawing a packed house of art connoisseurs and disciples of Guru Neela Ramgopal, and showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian classical arts with devotion and excellence.  Srivatsa Shandilya is a photojournalist and director of International Arts & Cultural Foundation, Bengaluru. |
