Batu Nrutya - performed at IIC on Dec 29, 2019

This is a unique pure dance composition that reflects the early Tantrism of Odisha, which is still seen in Bhairav worship. It is presented as an offering to Shiva in his form as Bhairav. In this quintessential item of the Odissi repertoire, the dancer is initiated into Nritta – or pure dance patterns, showcasing the tribhanga or the triple fold bend and chauka, the symmetrical square posture. In Battu, the dancer strikes a series of sculpturesque poses - many, holding the instruments of the veena, flute, mardala and cymbals - others, showcasing the darpana (mirror) and the mood, alasa (a seductive languidness). All these statuesque poses evoke the images of the beautiful sculptures and carvings of the Konark Sun Temple. Battu is in rag Mohana set to Ekatali. Choreography by: Padma Vibhushan Kelucharan Mohapatra Taught to my: Vishwanath Mangaraj Accompanied by: Guru Prafulla Mangaraj on Mardala, Sri Vishwanath Mangaraj on Manjira, Sri Sukant Nayak - Vocals and Sri Dhiraj Pandey on the Flute