‘Jalasrote katha koy’, a production on the art of elocution by Shankhamala at Rabindra Sadan on July 27, chose to unfold the process of Calcutta’s evolution down the ages. Director Sumantra Sengupta’s concept upholds the undying voice of humanity. And the stories are woven around its inevitable presence while etching out the history. There is a certain timelessness about it all — portrayed through a smart, tightknit juxtaposition of events and places. The chorus, working along the lines of the omniscient chorus of ancient Greek tragedies, instills the recurring voice of conscience, raising pertinent questions. Experimental and vivacious in approach, effectively mixing vivid thespian elements, Sengupta’s team achieves magic heights of cohesive recitation. Alongside the portrayal of an agonised human existence, a tribute to the parallel stream of joy and hope would have certainly added to the production’s aesthetics.
Mohua Mitra
Paucity of stage for their talented students has forced gurus of classical music to form choir-groups. Veteran Dipali Nag’s Saptasur can claim to be the first of its kind but not the only one as announced at the Sandre Hall on July 24. Beginning with an innovative sargam and taal composition, the choir, led by Dipali Nag, moved on to Chaturang and intertwined khayals in two varieties of Malhar. Putul Dutta’s bhajan was emotive. The eloquent viraha in Rupak and chirpiness of double Kaharwa set the paradoxical mood of a Kajri followed by a catchy qawwali of Nazrul. The evening began with dance in contemporary and Kathak styles presented by the students of Calcutta School of Music.
Meena Banerjee
It is refreshing to come across someone like Anusuya Banerjee, whose Bharatnatyam performance at Padatik Little Theatre on July 24 kept the audience enthralled. The programme was jointly organised by Padatik and Anamika Kala Sangam. The one-and-half-hour presentation proved that classical dance has its own charm and intrinsic merit. Anusuya presented a thematic item, Namami Krishna Sundaram, depicting various roles of lord Krishna with the ease of a seasoned dancer. Intensive training and dedicated approach were reflected in her precise movements. However, the fine artistry would have been enhanced with a better aharya (make-up and dress sense) and visual appearance. Sukumar Kutty’s vocal support added life to the entire presentation.
Sharmila Basu Thakur
