Bhubaneswar, June 28: A unique Odissi composition by danseuse Ileana Citaristi enthralled the audience at Rabindra Mandap here yesterday.

Enacted by the students of Ileana's dance institute Art Vision, the dance-drama Maana Bhanjana portrayed the tale of love between Radha and Krishna.

The recital narrates an episode where Radha, fed up with Krishna's flirtatious ways with the other gopis, gets upset. A witty Krishna, however, mollifies her. A group of 10 dancers, including Citaristi and her young disciple Saswat Joshi, were seen enacting the various characters.

The 50-minute recital was based on a script by Babaji Vaishnav Charan and the founder of Odia cinema Mohan Sundar Deb Goswami.

Saswat as the clever and lovable Krishna was impressive. For Saswat, the feeling of performing with his teacher was special.

"There were moments in the composition where Ileana madam was teasing me as a friend and we were talking to each other. I always cherish those moments of sharing the stage with her," he said.

With their graceful movements and rhythmic twirls, the dancers showcased impressive synchronisation with each other. The various ways that Krishna employs to win over Radha were full of naughtiness. A few sweet instances during the recital include the several disguises that Krishna undergoes to win back Radha's love.

The harmonious music to the recital composed by Laxmikant Palit added to the charm of the choreography. The cultural evening was organised by the state culture department and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.The audience was impressed by the show. "There were a lot of variations in the movements. The dancers were very expressive. I enjoyed the performances," said Aparna Biswal, who was in the audience.