Premier: IDIA Festival, Palo Alto, California | 2023
Ambika Pallavi (Soundarya Lahari)
This performance piece draws inspiration from two slokas found within the revered text, Soundarya Lahari, which extols the virtues of Goddess Ambika, also known as the Divine Mother, as penned by the esteemed social reformer and philosopher, Adi Sankara. Within this composition, the omnipotent divine mother is celebrated for her inherent virtues, evoking unfettered devotion and reverence from her worshippers, whose hearts are uplifted by her divine presence.
Originally choreographed and performed by the distinguished Dr. Anita R Ratnam, Ambika Pallavi is set to the melodious ragam Thilang and Adi talam. The original music composition is attributed to OS ARUN, with music re-arrangement by Sudha Raghuraman. This performance piece stands as a testament to the timeless beauty and spiritual resonance of Indian classical dance.
I DANCE hence I AM Festival
Aug 19, 2023, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM PDT
Cubberly Theater, 4000 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Video
Credit: Anubhava SJ
Credits:
ORIGINAL WORK | 1993:
Choreography: Dr. Anita R Ratnam
Vocal & music composition: OS Arun
RECREATION | 2023:
Movement mosaic: Dr. Anita R Ratnam
Mentor: Dr. Anita R Ratnam
Dancer: Kassiyet
Producer: Kassiyet
Arranger: Dr. Anita R Ratnam, Kassiyet
Music re-arrangement & vocal: Sudha Raghuraman
Nattuvangam: Sudha Raghuraman
Flute: G Raghuraman
Mridangam: Chandershekar
Kanjira: Chandershekar
Studio recording: New Delhi, India
Journey
INSPIRATION | 1993
This piece showcases original choreography presented by Dr. Ratnam in 1993. It stands as a testament to her artistic vision and creative prowess.
Music development | 2023
New Delhi, India
The music was recorded and re-arranged at a studio in New Delhi, India, under the direction of Dr. Anita R Ratnam from Chennai, with oversight provided by Kassiyet, based in California.
Movement mosaic| 2023
Chennai, India - San Jose, USA
Anita Ratnam meticulously crafted and guided Kassiyet in developing the movement vocabulary for this piece. Her expertise and mentorship plays a pivotal role in shaping the artistic expression of Kassiyet's performances.
Behind the scene
Cubberly Theater, Palo Alto, USA
