Reviews
G Narendra @ The Music Academy

G.
Narendra, with the agility and energy of a youthful performer, captivated the
audience with his compelling storytelling. His
performance for the Dasavataram varnam, Paarkadal Alaimele in
ragamalika, composed by Udumalai Narayana Kavi and set to music by G.
Ramanathan, was a portrayal of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
The
narrative began with the Matsya Avatar, where Maha Vishnu incarnates as a fish
to retrieve the stolen Vedas from the demon Somukha. Narendra vividly captured
the ferocity of the battle and the triumph of good over evil. The Koorma Avatar,
with the depiction of the Mandara mountain sinking during the churning of the
milky ocean, as Vishnu supported the mountain on his shell. The Varaha episode
saw a powerful portrayal of Maha Vishnu lifting Bhu Devi with his tusks to
defeat the demon Hiranyaksha.
During the Narasimha Avataram, one could visualise the lion, Narasimha, break through the pillars and walking on the stage at the Music Academy searching to devour the evil minds. Narendra's execution of intricate jatis was precise. During the Bali Avatar the pairing of swaras with sollu kattu felt inconsistent in some sections.
The
Rama-Ravana yudha was monotonous although the demise of Ravana was good where
lighting effects amplified the drama. The Balarama avatar was uniquely depicted,
and the portrayal of Sree Krishna, particularly during the Raas, stood
out for its vibrant energy and apt ragam selection. While the Vishwaroopam
segment lacked impact, the portrayal of the Kali Yuga, with its elements of
misery, cunningness, and maya, was deeply evocative. The arrival of Kalki on
horseback to restore balance provided a fitting conclusion.
The
second item, Thottu Thottu Pesavaran in Behag ragam, composed by
Periyasaami Tooran, depicted a gopi's playful protest mixed with smoldering
desire in Gokulam. Narendra's nuanced portrayal captured the gopi’s
simultaneous annoyance and joy at Krishna's teasing antics. His adherence to
traditional aesthetics combined with crisp jatis created a delightful
experience for the audience.
Narendra’s
performance was a testament to his storytelling finesse leaving the audience
spellbound.