Keep Smiling!

One of the best things about Delhi is that it is abuzz with a variety of programmes. There is something for everyone all the time. Every morning when I get the newspaper I am used to glancing over the long list of programmes that happen here daily and most often sigh about my situation. There is hardly any time left in between preparation and test series. Also, say, in case I go to some program I would not be able to enjoy it properly because I can sense someone pointing a finger at me. So, in short, I have missed out on almost all the major programmes that have happened in Delhi over the last two years (and for good reason) with the exception of the International Book Fair in 2010. However, yesterday was an exception. I read about a Kathak performance by Pandit Birju Maharaj and the students from his Kalashram at ICCR. It was a snap decision and I decided to be there. Couple of friends from my previous hostel also joined me.

The programme, Kavi Guru Pranam, was organised to commemorate Rabindranath Tagore’s 150th birth centenary. So, the programme featured Kathak dance choreography based on poems and songs written by Tagore. The evening started with a beautiful group choreography titled ‘Ashtanayika’. Then there was a performance by Mamta Maharaj, daughter of Birju Maharaj, in which she portrayed a portion of Tagore’s poetry where Gandhari asks the King and society to punish her sons since they have committed wrong. The easiness with which she played different characters was fascinating. Read the rest of this entry »