Rabindra Nrityadhara in focus

To enable art lovers to better understand classical dance, Bengal Foundation arranged the fifth episode of their regular series of lecture and demonstration programmes at the Daily Star-Bengal Arts Precinct in The Daily Star centre on May 17.

Celebrated dancer-choreographer Sharmila Banerjee presented the programme on the dance genre Rabindra Nrityadhara with live performances by Nrityanandan artistes – Sonia Rashid, Afsana Islam, Sudeshna Swayamprabha, Mehraj Haque Tushar, Ladly Mohan Mitra, Ira Bala, Krishna Roy, Falguni Sen, Ahalya Shankor Das, Anika Teheseen Surovi, Rikhia Afra, Sushmita Lopa, Suparna Lima, Rasel Ahmed, Saiful Islam Evan, Shafiqul Islam and Amir Hamza Pritom.

The featured performances were based on the Tagore songs “Bojro Manik Diye Gantha”, “Amar Onge Onge Ke”, “Ketechhe Ekela”, “Ebela Daak Porechhe” and “Neelo Anjan Ghono Punjo Chhayaye”.

A group presentation. Photo: Ridwan Adid Rupon

Sharmila Banerjee speaks at the event. Photo: Ridwan Adid Rupon

Artistes in group, duet and solo presentations also displayed parts from the dance dramas – Shyama, Chitrangada and Falguni. They also showcased classical dance styles – Mohiniattam, Kathakali and Sinhalese candy dance and Java ballet dance at the event.  

Sudeshna Swayamprabha and Mehraj Haque Tushar stood out in their performances -- in a solo by the former, and a duet. 

In her presentation, Sharmila Banerjee underscored the historical aspect, evolution and establishment of Tagorean Dance, its connection with traditional folk, classical dance genres and European dance styles and Tagore's preferences of simplicity in both movements and costumes.      

The presentation also included narrations on the roots, evolution and historical development of Rabindra Nrityadhara along with audio visual presentations.