Guru Vidha Lal’s grace captivates city at Bhavan’s Kaladarshan

 

 

 

The serene stage of Bhavan’s Bhagwandas Purohit Auditorium, Civil Lines, transformed into a realm of divine rhythm and expression as Bhavan’s Kalasrjan presented ‘Kaladarshan’ - an evening of Kathak by the distinguished Guru Vidha Lal from New Delhi. The programme, part of the ongoing ‘Kaladarshan’ Series organised by Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Nagpur Kendra, and Kalasrjan (Academy of Indian Music, Dance and Fine Arts), celebrated the grandeur of classical Indian dance with unmatched grace. Guru Vidha Lal, a disciple of the eminent Kathak exponent and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Geetanjali Lal of the Jaipur Gharana, enchanted the audience through a sequence of spellbinding performances that seamlessly intertwined technique with emotion.

 

 

 

The evening commenced with ‘Hari Hara’, where Vidha Lal embodied the unity of Vishnu and Shiva, showcasing the profound versatility of Kathak’s abhinaya and footwork. ‘Suryashtkam’ followed, illuminating the stage with spiritual radiance dedicated to the Sun God. ‘Saviyaah’ - a lyrical conversation between Radha and Krishna, evoked the eternal essence of love and devotion. The rhythmic splendour of ‘Vilambit Lay’ and ‘Dhrut Laya’ displayed her command over tempo and precision, while ‘Mor Pakha’, inspired by the peacock feather adorning Krishna’s crown, concluded the performance with vibrant elegance. Each movement, turn, and expression carried the fragrance of classical purity, accompanied by music that enhanced the immersive experience.

 

Following the performance, Guru Vidha Lal was felicitated with a shawl, shreefal, and a memento as a mark of honour by Prof Q H Jeevaji Executive Committee Member Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Nagpur Kendra; Malini Menon, Member, Core Committee, and Dr Vinay Nangia Chairman, Suraj Eye Institute, who expressed admiration for her dedication to preserving and promoting Kathak’s rich legacy. Principal Srimathy Madkholkar proposed a vote of thanks, extending heartfelt gratitude to the artist and organisers for an evening steeped in cultural splendour.