Tamrapatra Live, a captivating classical dance performance, enchanted audiences in Hyderabad by combining the timeless poetry of Annamacharya with classical dance. The event, presented by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and Shankarananda Kalakshetra in collaboration with the Department of Culture, Government of Telangana, featured performances by five of India’s top classical dancers: Ananda Shankar Jayant, Anupama Kylash, Deepika Reddy, Gopika Varma, and Vaibhav Arekar.
The evening began with a tribute to Saint Annamacharya, setting a reverent mood for the performances that followed. Vaibhav Arekar delivered a moving depiction of Krishna bidding farewell to Radha as he left Brindavan for Mathura, capturing the poignant emotions of their parting. Gopika Varma, through the graceful art of Mohiniattam, vividly portrayed Radha’s deep love and longing for Krishna.
Deepika Reddy’s Kuchipudi performance then highlighted the divine equality between Alamelumanga and Sri Venkateswara, themes central to Annamacharya’s poetry. Her performance included insightful commentary, noting Annamacharya’s pioneering feminist views that acknowledged the equal divinity of both figures.
Anupama Kylash took on the role of Alamelumanga, skillfully conveying the Goddess’s longing through her expressive abhinaya. Her nuanced portrayal brought to life the divine love described in the sankeerthana. The evening reached its crescendo with Ananda Shankar Jayant’s vibrant Bharatanatyam performance, which celebrated the union of Alamelumanga and Venkateswara with dynamic energy and expression.
The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, reflecting their deep appreciation for the evening’s rare and beautifully executed performances. Dr. Mammidi Harikrishna, Director of Culture for the Government of Telangana, praised the dancers and the innovative concept behind Tamrapatra Live, noting its success in bringing the classical arts and Annamacharya’s poetry to life.