PARIKRAMA

(Manesh Maharaj)

Kala Darshan - Institute of classical music and dance will be staging Parikrama - a Kathak dance recital by Shri Manesh Maharaj and his disciples on April 2 in Chatsworth.

“Kala Darshan was established in 1999 with the aim to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of classical music and dance in South Africa,” explains Shri Manesh Maharaj. “We have endeavoured to create a platform for aspiring students and upcoming artists to showcase their talents. Since its inception and through our programmes, we have assisted numerous religious and non-governmental organizations raise funds for their respective projects.

“Some of these organizations,” continues Manesh, “include The Ramakrishna Centre of S.A, The Shri Vishnu Temple Society, The Chinmaya Mission of S.A, The Aryan Benevolent Homes, Winithie Sabha, The Saraswathi Cultural Society, Dudlu Project for underprivileged woman, The Isipingo Temple Society, Lakshmi Mandir and The Arena Park Temple Society.

Originating in the temples of Northern India and later flourishing in the courtrooms of the Mughal and Rajput kings, Kathak is distinguished by intricate footwork, rapid pirouettes and evocative expression. It constitutes one of the seven major classical dance styles of India.

Parikrama is a medium of worship where the pilgrim circumambulates clockwise around a sacred image, object or temple. The pilgrim reaches a state of transcendental bliss at the completion of thework.

Using Kathak as a medium, Parikrama takes the audience on a spiritual pilgrimage from the temple in Chidambaram where Lord Shiva performed His Ananda Tandavam to the beautiful forests of Vrindavan, where Lord Krishna performed His Maharaasleela with the Gopis. The production promises to captivate and enthral a diverse audience with its rich music score, exquisite costumes and vibrant choreography.

Parikrama has one performance on April 2 at 19h00 at the Rajput Hall, unit 6 Chatsworth. Tickets R40 available at the door. Part of the proceeds from this performance will be donated to various religious organizations. Further information on 082 422 6865.