Of graceful moves, yogic connection

Mythili Prakash. Telegraph picture

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 10: Mythili Prakash’s Bharatnatyam has the power to keep her spectators mesmerised for hours. Now, the young danseuse is set to enchant dance enthusiasts in the capital at the Sixth Devdasi National Dance Festival to be held at Rabindra Mandap from October 12. She will also be felicitated with the Devdasi National Award, 2011 on the concluding day of the festival.

“This is my first performance in Orissa and I feel extremely honoured to receive this award,” said Mythili.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Mythili is deeply influenced by her danseuse mother, Viji Prakash. Trained in the Thanjavur style of Bharatnatyam and a devotee of the traditional repertoire of the classical dance form, Mythili is not very enthusiastic about giving a modern touch to this art form.

“Even though I have a background in modern dance, I am not keen at infusing modern steps into Bharatnatyam. I do not think I will do justice to this divine art by incorporating unconventional movements or themes,” she says.

The danseuse, who is currently residing in Chennai, is also receiving training from renowned dancer Malavika Sarukkai.

“I can easily relate to Bharatnatyam. Be it the postures or the vocal, there is an instant appeal that draws me closer to this art. I feel a yogic connection whenever I perform Bharatnatyam on stage,” said Mythili.

Her solo repertoires, Surya, which pays homage to the fire energy, and Prithika, based on a romantic verse of poet Rumi, have received worldwide appreciation.

It was at the age of eight when she first charmed the viewers with her performance. From then on, there was no looking back. Mythili has travelled worldwide and enticed viewers with her graceful moves. Be it the US, Canada, Middle East or India, her performances have always been appreciated.

The danseuse who believes in being an all-rounder has also trained herself in Carnatic vocal music as well as Nattuvangam. Despite holding a Bachelor’ degree in mass communication from University of California, dance has always been her first love.