Kala Sadhana, Annual Performance in Memory of Rukmini Devi

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 organies a tribute festivals titled ‘Kala Sadhana’ at Kalakshetra as an offering to its founder.

The 2025 Edition, Held Recently, Began With the Feet of Six Dancers Seen Bell A thiraiseelai (Curtain), help by two other dancers. It was a graceful introduction to the six kartigai pengalWho are Intrinsic to the Story of the Birth of Muruga. This ahasthetically conceived sequence will be formed a prelude to the presentation of ‘Arupadai veedu’.

Beginning with the episode where Ganesha and Muruga Fight over a mango, the other sequences focused 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-confused 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 between Him and Muruga, the sequences were developed as an engrossing as an engine. 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, chown according to the scene. Vocalist Hariprasanth’s Bhava-Rich Voice Added to the appeal of the production. M. Srikrishna on the Mridangam, MV Srinivas on the Violyn, 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.