AF lecture
‘What is Bharata Natyam?’, a lecture by Nirmala John and a dance
performance by her pupils will be held at of “Nirmanjali School of
Dancing at Alliance Française de Colombo No. 11, Barnes Place, Colombo
7, on November 26 at 6.30 pm.
 |
|
Nirmala
John |
Nirmala John holds a B.A. and M.A. of the Barathithason varsity of
India. There was a time in Sri Lanka’s cultural history when each ethnic
/linguistic group practised its own unique art form in isolation,
jealously guarding its techniques, without any support from other
groups; language may have been one reason, religion another.
However no man can remain in an island forever nor for that matter
any culture! We see how this isolation of groups is slowly eroding,
contributing to greater understanding, especially in the field of
Bharatha Natyam. The pupils at the “Nirmalanjali School of Dance” for
example, represent every linguistic and religious group in Sri Lanka as
well as foreigners.
On completion of their course, most students stage their debut
(Arangetrams) at well publicized and patronized functions with invitees
from all communities in attendance. Since Bharatanatyam originated as a
Hindu Temple Ritual as a dance in honour and praise of Hindu Gods, the
symbolism and nuances is sometimes lost on the audience, especially
those from non-Hindu or non-Tamil backgrounds.
John has pioneered a unique culture of bridging this gap between
different groups through innovative choreography, without deviating from
the conservative Bharatha Natyam dance forms.
In recognition and as part of the policy of the Alliance Française de
Colombo to promote other cultures, of this ability/ the Alliance
Française de Colombo has invited John to educate its Members and their
guests in this respect..
|
