On 27 September 2024, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi in association with Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University presented Praatigya. Held at the University New Building Theatre, this series of lecture-demonstrations aimed to provide a platform for experience-sharing by stalwarts in the field of Indian arts. With the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, backing the initiative, Praatigya brought together eminent personalities in Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and folk theatre - Prof Sudharani Raghupathy, Prof. Prameela Gurumurthyand Dr. P.K. Sambandan respectively.

The event commenced with a group rendition of the Kamalamba Kalyani navavarnam followed by the inauguration. During the formal inauguration, Dr. S. Sowmya, Vice Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University, welcomed the gathering and honoured the speakers and eminent scholar and writer Nandini Ramani, and a committee member of the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

The session began with a presentation by Bharatantyam dancer and guru Sudharani Raghupathy, tracing the evolution of Bharatanatyam from the Tanjore Quartet period. Reflecting on her early days under the guidance of her guru, Kittappa Pillai, she recalled the rigorous training that shaped her mastery over the art form. Sudharani also demonstrated the art of abhinaya through excerpts from Tattai mozhial oru penn, Tiruvachakam, and Swati Tirunal’s Chaliye Kunjanamo, showcasing her nuanced expression and storytelling. Lekha, a student of Priya Murle, also demonstrated a variety of items, including Todayamangalam, Tisra Alarippu interspersed with a Tiruppugazh, and a Varuna Sandhi Kauthuvam, amongst others.

The second presenter, Prof. Prameela Gurumurthy provided an overview of the history of Carnatic music, beginning with its ancient roots in texts like the Silappadikaram and progressing through the Saiva Pann Tirumurai. She traced the journey of music state-wise and composer-wise, touching upon Harikatha stalwarts, Dasar padams, Arunachala Kavi’s katha prasangams, and the music of Tukaram and the Carnatic Trinity. Dr. Prameela also demonstrated musical snippets, offering a taste of the compositions associated with each era and composer.

The final segment of the event featured a vibrant lecture-demonstration by Dr. P.K. Sambandan, who brought the traditional street theatre form of Therukoothu to life. His lecture explored various aspects of this folk art, such as the themes, which are predominantly drawn from Indian mythologies and epics like the Mahabharata, Ramayana and other social topics. Dr. Sambandan discussed the makeup and ornamentation involved in the performances, explaining the differences in the portrayal of men and women. With his robust voice, dynamic movements, and theatrical flair, he enthralled the audience, leaving a lasting impression of Therukoothu’s vibrant energy.

While the event lasted almost half a day, and provided enriching content for the students of the Music College, there was a shared sentiment that the stalwarts could have spent more time sharing their personal journeys and experiences. The event, Praatigya, was positioned as a space for experience-sharing by these luminaries, but this aspect could have been explored further. More in-depth discussions about their artistic journeys could have added a personal touch to an already insightful program. Praatigya is a wonderful initiative by the Sangeet Natak Akademi and has the potential to foster deeper engagement between upcoming artists and the veterans of the field, paving the way for meaningful mentorship and guidance. 

To watch the full event click here