Neo Desi Karanas - Classical Dance Book Launch

In 2004 the Central Government of India awarded a fellowship for research in “Desi Karanas” to Bharata Nrityasala’s  Director. Late Smt. Sundari Santhanam. As this research neared completion, it kindled a further interest in the subject in her and she determined to identify, interpret and document the vast treasures of Natyashastra hidden in Karnataka’s temples like Badami, Ihole, Pattadakal etc. Sundari made several trips to many of these temples to intensify her research with particular focus on “Desi Karanas”.

Sundari completed the task of creating/ reconstructing 108 “Desi Karanas” despite her failing health. Bharata Nrityasala has compiled her entire research work and decided to publish this as a book. Even though the seed for this project was sown in  2009, the year Sundari passed away, they could only complete the same now. This book, a dream of Sundari’s will be a treasure of information on Karnataka’s contribution to Bharatanatyam.

This illustrated book for practicing dancers and research students also serves as a record of Sundari’s contribution to the field of dance. To celebrate the occasion of releasing this book, a program has been arranged in Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam will grace the occasion and launch the book.

Venue: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Race Course Road, Bangalore
Date: March 16th
Time: 6.30 pm
Chief Guest: Padma Vibhushan, Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam
Guest of Honour: Shatavadhani Dr. R. Ganesh

There will be a demonstration  of the Desi Karanas by senior students of Sundari who had the opportunity to learn the Karanas  and its application from Sundari herself.