Gopalakrishna Bharathi’s “Nandanar Charitiram” was presented as a unique Geetha Nrityam presentation by Sangam Festival and Cleveland Aradhana in New Jersey on the 25th April 2009.
Bala Devi Chandrashekar danced to a highly accomplished musical ensemble from India.
The music and dance merged flawlessly. Gopalakrishna Bharathi’s lyrics, carefully composed music and research by veterans such as Suguna Varadhachari, supported by an excellent ensemble including Kunnakudi Balmuralikrishna, K Gayathri, Madrimangalam Swaminathan on the mridangam, flutist N. Thyagarajan, Ranjani Arun on the violin, Jaya Sekar on the veena and Bhairav Chandrashekar on the mridangam.
The Opera commenced with Vanakkam Kaapu, Kali Virutham, followed with an invocation to Lord Ganesha in the song Gananatha Charanam. Nandanar selling his wares was brought out in the song Varirukudhu.
Bala Devi’s depiction of Nandanar going about his business in the village was realistic and enjoyable. In the song Sivalokanadhanai the earnest desire of Nandanar to go to Thirupangoor was portrayed wonderfully. The highlight of the drama was brought out in Vazhimaraikudhu/Satre vilagi irum pillai . The rasikas present could perceive and feel in Bala’s dance, Nandanar’s ecstasy on seeing the Lord at Thirupangoor . . .
Madrimagalam Swaminathan’s rhythmic support and Kunnakudi Balamuralikrishna’s jathi rendition reinforced the overall laya harmony of the wonderful Geetha Nrityam concert. Bala’s sancharis describing the beauty and culture of the town of Thirupangoor and Chidamabram and Nandanar’s awe of the temple were portrayed in a realistic form.
The music was presented in various musical forms such as irusollaalankaram, dandakam, themangu, kadga, and anandakalipu. The presentation weaved a clever dramatic structure that showcased carefully researched literature, music and nrityam.
