From  ‘Arupadai Veedu’
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Several students pass out of an institution but some take efforts to share what they have imbibed. S. Premnath is one such. After graduating from Kalakshetra, he went on to establish a dance institution in North Chennai. He named it Rukmini Devi Natyakshetra. Every year, he organises a tribute festival titled ‘Kala Sadhana’ at Kalakshetra as an offering to its founder.

The 2025 edition, held recently, began with the feet of six dancers seen below a thiraiseelai (curtain), held by two other dancers. It was a graceful introduction to the six Karthigai pengal, who are intrinsic to the story of the birth of Muruga. This aesthetically conceived sequence formed a prelude to the presentation of ‘Arupadai Veedu’.

Beginning with the episode where Ganesha and Muruga fight over a mango, the other sequences focussed on the temples that form the Arupadai Veedu. Aesthetically choreographed, the section dedicated to the temples had dancers portraying their distinct features through well-designed movement patterns and aptly-conceived sancharis.

Students of Rukmini Devi Natyakshetra performing at Kala Sadhana -2025
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The story of Soorapadman was the highlight here. From the vibrant dancing of the demonesses in the court and the entry of Soorapadman to the ensuing battle between him and Muruga, the sequences were developed as an engrossing costume drama. An imaginative element was three apsaras witnessing the battle from behind a transparent curtain. It was a nice way to use the stage space.

The musical score was a fine blend of Carnatic ragas, chosen according to the scene. Vocalist Hariprasanth’s bhava-rich voice added to the appeal of the production. M. Srikrishna on the mridangam, M.V. Srinivas on the violin, Bhagyalakshmi on the flute, Shyam on the tambura and Gunasekar on the conch offered amazing support. S. Premnath wielded the cymbals .

The production, with well-coordinated costumes, sets, lighting and music, and dance composition was a heartfelt tribute to Rukmini Devi.