Program

The recital begins with a Kavuthuvam, a composition with alternating rhythmic phrases (sollukattu) and lyrics in praise of a deity. This piece is in praise of Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe. It describes Lord Vishnu’s majestic appearance as well as the Dasaavathaaram: the ten avataars or incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Following the Kavuthuvam is the invocatory Alarippu. The Alarippu depicts Nritta or pure abstract dance, where the dancer bows to the Gods, Guru, and the audience.

Raagam: Naatai

Taalam: Chaturasra Ekam, Khanda Chaapu

Composer: Gangai Muthu Nattuvanaar

The poet describes how Krishna’s lips, face, eyes, smile, hands, feet, and graceful walk are incredibly sweet or nectar-like. All the animals like deer and peacocks are entranced by his music, running to come listen to Krishna play his flute. Not just the animals, but also the gopis or maidens are mesmerized by his music and leave their homes to listen to his beautiful playing. With the gopis, Krishna goes on to dance the Ras—the dance of love—in a circle with dandyas or sticks.

O lord of sweetness, everything about you is sweet.

Raagam: Raagamaalika

Taalam: Taalamaalika

Composer: Shri Vallabhaachaarya

The Varnam is the most elaborate piece of an arangetram as it combines both pure interpretive dance along with alternative lyrics and jatis or rhythmic patterns. This Varnam is in praise of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god.

On Ganesh Chaturthi, Ganesha’s image is carried in a large procession and immersed in the ocean. If one sings in Ganesha’s praise, all worldly worries will be removed and we will obtain happiness instead.

Next, the dance depicts the legend of the Saint Avvaiyar. Beautiful and intelligent, she is pursued by many aristocratic suitors.  She pleaded with Lord Ganesha to be rid of her beauty. Ganesha blesses her, turning her physical form into that of an old woman, and she goes on to become a renowned poet.

The next story shows Ganesha being brought to life from the dirt of the goddess Parvati. While guarding Parvati’s door, Lord Shiva unknowingly beheads him for preventing him from entering. However, he is brought back to life with the head of an elephant.

In the final story, Ganesha and Muruga race around the world to win a delicious fruit from their father, Shiva. To Ganesha, Shiva and Parvati as father and mother of the universe symbolize the whole world.  Using this analogy, Ganesha wins the contest over his brother Muruga.

Lord Ganesha, shower your blessings upon those who seek refuge at your feet.

Raagam: Naatakurinji

Taalam: Adi

Composer: T.V. Gopaalakrishnan (20th century)

In this padam, the heroine discusses with her friend their rival who has suddenly found favor with her lover Lord Muruga. The heroine is jealous of her rival but hides her jealousy by complaining about her behavior.

The heroine tells her friend, “She speaks incessantly, but it is not her fault as she knows no better; begone my friend.”

The heroine continues, “Gone are those days when she came to me begging for some clothes and jewelry; Now she wears expensive sarees and lives in a many-storied grand mansion which has soft, feather mattresses and pillows to sleep on.”

Is it her fault that she goes around talking so much?

Raagam: Sowraashtram

Taalam: Adi

Composer: Subbaraama Aiyyar

The piece begins with a sloka or hymn describing the fierce qualities and numerous accomplishments of Shakti, the Goddess of Power. This is followed by a song that describes the dual qualities of the Goddess: while she’s as beautiful as a delicate lotus flower, she is also a fierce warrior. She rides to battle seated on a tiger and vanquishes the demon Mahishaasura with ease. 

Raagam: Gowda Malhaar

Taalam: Rupakam

Composer: Harikesanallur Muthaiya Bhaagavatar

Gummana Kareyedire depicts Krishna as a young child begging his mother, Yashoda, not to call the Gummana, or monster, on him. He desperately pleads with his mother, telling her all the mischievous things he will stop doing like pranking the local gopis, talking back to his older brother, or eating mud. Finally, Yashoda gives in to Krishna, knowing that he is Lord Vishnu, and tells the imaginary Gummana to leave.

Raagam: Amritavarshini

Taalam: Adi

Composer: Saint Purandara Daasa

The Thillana is a joyous finale in a dance recital. Precise, rhythmic patterns and sculpturesque poses are presented with grace and fluidity. The lyrics of this Thillana describe how the beautiful music of the kuntalavarali raagam is unparalleled. Embellished with the sublime music from Krishna’s flute, it brings delight to all.

Raagam: Kuntalavarali

Taalam: Adi

Composer: Dr. M Balamuralikrishna