Meera Bai’s spiritual journey showcased

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, September 2

A scintillating classical and contemporary dance performance by Kanhari Pinge (daughter) and Pallavi Pinge (mother) groups marked the first day of the ongoing 55th annual Shree Ganeshotsava celebrations at Maharashtra Bhawan here this evening.

The celebrations, organised by the Maharashtra Mandal, would conclude on September 8, said Sane, president of the mandal.

Today’s showcase of kathak and contemporary classical dance forms witnessed an impressive gathering. A team of Pallavi and Kanhari comprising 13 dancers — Sarika Kadam, Shreya Mahadeokar, Trishna Vatkar, Madhuri Shinde, Snehal Kawle, Divya, Savitri, Khushi, Yakshika, Aarna and Sakshi — began with a mesmerising classical dance ballet celebrating the eternal poetry of saint Meera Bai, who pioneered the Bhakti movement in India with some technical and lyrical compositions. Starting with ‘Ganesha stuti’ in ‘shlokas’, the troupe then moved on to dance ballet on the eternal composition of Meera Bai.

The entire theme and presentation was conceptualised and choreographed by Pallavi, a renowned kathak dancer and teacher, and founder and director of Kalakunj.

The evening captured facets of Meera Bai’s life along with her spiritual journey while at the same time showcasing the technical aspect of kathak. The performance was an impressive amalgamation of thought-provoking narrations, stunning visuals and costumes followed by magnificent choreography.