Passion and precision

Odissi doyenne in her first ever Melbourne performance

BC however after experiencing a peak in between the 12 and 16th centuries AD, it was revived again in the early 1950s. Odissi Indian classical dance is an artistically beautiful way to unfold the untold tales of ancient times. Traditional Odissi dancers find inspiration in myths that transcend ordinary human life. Madhavi’s choreography presented both richly narrative and purely technical aspects of the dance form through mellifluous gestures and strong footwork.

Weaving a story through rhythm and movement, the dancers captivated the audience with their characterisations. A pining Radha, a playful Krishna or a cupid spring was enacted with limpid gestural clarity.

The show, titled Arpan (‘offering’), was held over two days and the program included various items of the Odissi repertoire. The beautifully choreographed dances by Madhavi had the poetry of sculptural lines, lucidity and spiritual resonance.

On both days the recital kicked off with a slower paced and reverential piece, Mangalacharan, suitably setting the invocative tone for an auspicious beginning.

Solos and duos by Madhavi and her disciples Sam Goraya and Shalakha Rai dominated the second half of the show Shalakha who has been learning Odissi since she was 9 years old, displayed sculptural muscularity with a tranquillity that contrasted with the springy exuberance of her feet.

Sam Goraya, who was instrumental in bringing his guru Madhavi Mudgal to Australia, matched Shalakha with vigour and versatility.

Their performance was a fantastic showcase of what expert dancers can achieve with just a minute change in facial expression or a subtle shift in posture.

Sam who is a dedicated and passionate Odissi dancer always wanted Australians to experience the virtuosity of Madhavi’s art. Along with his partner Zlatko Varenina he coordinated her visit and performances in Adelaide, Melbourne and New Zealand.

According to Sam, the proceeds from the shows will be utilised to help underprivileged artists in India and encourage artistic exchange between local and Indian artists.

According to special guest Srini Srinivasan, former Victorian Multicultural Commissioner, the collaboration between acclaimed Indian Odissi dancer and Australian artists not only promotes multiculturalism, it fosters harmony through dance.

VMC Commissioner Sam Almaliki and Labor Party member for St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman were among those present to support the talented artists.

The final piece of this special event was based on Moksha, the ultimate aim of human endeavour to merge with the absolute. It ended with a benedictory chant from the Vedas. Towards the end, the continuous applause from the mesmerised audience was well deserved.

Preeti Jabbal