A rare Bharata Natyam spectacle due

A collection of Bharata Natyam dances under the guidance of a visiting master will go on stage at the Telstra Clear Pacific Events Centre in Manukau City on July 24.

Titled, Margam (‘Path’ or ‘Course’), the show will comprise dances tutored or fine-tuned by Adayar Lakshman and showcase primarily the students of Narthana Aalayam, (School of Indian Dances) one of the foremost institutions dedicated to this traditional form of Indian art and culture.

School Principal Kalaichchelvi Uthayakumaran said participants and spectators should consider themselves lucky that a show under the craftsmanship of a great dancer is being held in Auckland.

She said Bharata Natyam enthusiasts consider the visit of Mr Lakshman as an event.

“He has carved a niche for himself in the art, and has worked with almost all popular dancers, including those who made it big in the film industry.

“The 77-year-old master is an alumnus of Kalakshetra, with expertise in Bharata Natyam, Mridhangam and Nattuvangam. The late Rukmanidevi Arundale, founder of the institution identified the talent in then young student and groomed him to become one of the greatest artistes of the contemporary era,” she said.

Tickets for the event, priced at $10 (discount of 10% for those purchasing five or more tickets) are available with Ms Uthayakumaran.