Parrot has for long been a favourite subject of artistes, what with its ability to imitate human speech. The beautiful bird has taken myriad forms in paintings, songs, verses, sculptures and dance.
‘Suka Marga,’ senior Bharatanatyam artiste Lakshmi Ramaswamy’s production will capture the bird in all its splendour — the vibrant green feathers, chilli red beak and incessant chatter. The production will be premiered in Chennai on January 26 (10 a.m.) at Narada Gana Sabha. The performance will include a short presentation by Chithra Madhavan on ‘Pärrot in Indian Art, Thought and Literature.’ The production has been choreographed in such a way that the bird makes its presence felt in every piece.
Anjali is based on an anecdote from saint Tulsidas’ life. The piece will focus on the role of the parrot as Tulsidas is eager to meet Lord Rama at Chitrakoot Ghat in Benaras.
As an emissary
‘Tathai Kavutuvam’ will portray the birds fluttering, pecking and gliding in the sky. The padam is about a young woman telling a parrot how she is waiting to be embraced by her soon-to-be-husband. The varnam portrays the goddess, who amidst the many powerful weapons, holds a parrot. It also talks about how the bird is the devotee’s messenger to the goddess.
‘Ramba-Suka Samvadam’ shows celestial dancer Rambha and Suka Maharishi is dispute giving contrasting perspectives of pleasure and philosophy. The production will end with tillana portraying the significance of freedom. Is it inside the cage where food and water are guaranteed or in the world outside? Concept and choreography are by Lakshmi Ramaswamy, music - Rajkumar Bhaarathi, script - Dr. Sankaranarayanan and sound recording is by Sai Shravanam and Periasamy. The group led by Lakshmi, includes her students of Sri Mudhraalaya. The production is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.