The auspicious season of Vishu was chosen by ABHAI (Association of Bharatanatyam Artistes of India), Mumbai chapter, in collaboration with Fine Arts Academy, Mumbai, to host the first of a series of lecture demonstrations (on Rhythm Patterns) to build a connect between theory and practice. “It was an attempt to create an interdisciplinary awareness and demonstrate how our diverse classical art forms have several themes of confluence and comparisons,” said Dr. Jayashree Rajagopalan, convener of ABHAI. Legendary Manipuri exponent Darshana Jhaveri led a team of dancers, who showcased the classical elements of Manipuri. Guru Brojen Singha, Latasana Devi and Purbita Mukherjee demonstrated several characteristics of Manipuri through short presentations, highlighting the rhythm patterns. Comparison of these patterns with the tala structure of Thiruppugazh was coherently brought out by vocalistGayatri Sundaresan. Saint Arunagirinathar’s ancestral roots in Bengal probably influenced the cadence in his musical cantos. It was curious to see how the Suladi and Chapu talas could be identified with the Manipuri talas. “The affinity of the Sankeertan tradition of Bengal in Manipuri format to Thiruppugazh verses was a revelation,” said Suman Badami, dance exponent from Powai. Guru Darshana Jhaveri pointed out that Padma Subrahmanyam found it interesting to note that the Vardamana talas mentioned in the Natya Shastra, though not much in vogue presently, was used in Manipuri music. A question-answer session was an educative experience for dance teachers, students and other attendees. Ganesh Kumar, chairman, Board of Trustees, Fine Arts Society, Chembur, who had initiated the session, expressed the need to have more such collaborative series. “Manipuri has made its entry into FAS through this event. Hosting such innovative sessions benefit the artistes and art lovers,” he added.

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