Powerhouse of talent, grace
I was always fascinated by the Indian classical dance forms and the rich cultural repertoire. As a newcomer to the world of dance, I was curious to know and wanted to learn more about the Indian classical forms. I was always fascinated by the discipline, mudra, abhinaya and most importantly, the larger than life stories the dancers conveyed through their expressions. But unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to do so. In Germany, I had access only to classical western dance especially ballroom dancing. So I took up the art to satisfy my creative instincts.
I kept my Indian classical dance interest aside and gave my heart and soul to ballroom dancing. For many years I learnt the art and even represented Germany for international dance championship and seminars. At the back of mind I always admired the Indian classical dancers. I would take out time to specially go and watch the performances of Indian legendary dancers like Sitara Devi, Pandit Birju Maharaj, Kumudini Lakh-ia and the so graceful and dynamic Dr Sonal Mansingh, whenever they would visit Germany or its neighbouring countries.
But some dancers truly remain legendary, who are an institution in their own right. The person I am talking about today is Padma Vibhu-shan Dr Sonal Mansingh. She is not only a guru to many, but a source of an inspiration. She is an accomplished Odissi dancer having learnt Bhara-tnatyam and Kuchipudi as well.
I remember seeing her perform many a time. Her beauty and aura are divine and when she starts to move, she simply takes your breath away. I always wished to meet her and it did come true last week.
I had to call her regarding some work, and I was extremely nervous like a student going for an examination. She is a legend, someone who has made dance history and I am almost nowhere close to her achievements. Her body of work boasts of an experience more than double my age. Inevitably, I was tensed and extremely stressed as to how she would react to a western dancer. I took a deep breath and gathered all my courage and asked for her, but when I heard her dynamic and vibrant voice I almost froze. Her reply made me realise that she is a true star indeed. She recognised me and complimented for my column in this newspaper.
And with that she put me at ease and I wasn’t nervous anymore. She is undeniably one dancer who does not compare Western and Indian dances on different levels. Few words of encouragement from her made me feel like a privileged soul. I am writing this specially to thank Dr Sonal Mansingh for reading my column and to all the other avid readers for their love and appreciation. It is extremely overwhelming
Sonaljimentioned about how we should do a show together and I was more than ecstatic. I truly hope I’ll be able to perform next to legend like her.
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