Innovation in traditional dance format was the central attraction of the programme presented by Anjika in association with Open Doors and Sanskriti Sagar (G.D. Birla Sabhagar, November 27). The evening opened with Mooladharam, a dance-drama in Bharatnatyam by Rema Shrikant’s group from Vadodara. It was a colourful illustration of kundalini, the energy in the human body mentioned in yogic texts.

The wedding sequence of Ganesha to Riddhi and Siddhi as his consorts was a gorgeous one with colourful umbrellas, masks and other interesting props. Precise group synchronisation and perfect techniques made it a production with a difference. Chintan Patel (in picture) as Ganesha stole the show.

If Mooladharam was a concrete presentation of an abstract theme, Formatica Roopasamhita, featuring Maulik Shah and Ishira Parikh from Ahmedabad, was an abstract treatment, both in form and content. It explored classical and modern forms with maximum utilisation of body language. Akar, laya, gati, rasanispatti were all sketched through rhythms.

The duo invoked the entire canvas of Kathak, but implemented it with contemporary vocabulary. Bold footworks, gentle glides and quick chakkars were treats to watch.