In November 2004, I was invited to present a Bharatanatyam recital, at the opening of Kalanjali, an exhibition of Hyderabad Textiles and Ceremonial Costumes and to conduct workshops on painting and handicrafts. This was due to the efforts of Dr. Surekha Acharya and Ms. Deenaz Coachbuilder, who arranged my programmes. With the blessings of my Guru, Smt. Rajee Narayan, I was able to participate in this event and I wish to share this with you.
The first recital was at Carl & Anderson School, San Bernadino, alongwith an interactive workshop, on the 12th of November. The following day was the second recital, which was scheduled for half an hour only, but was extended to more than an hour, due to an overwhelming response from the audience. This was at the Riverside Municipal Museum and was attended by the Mayor of Riverside.
The workshops on handicrafts and painting were on the 17th & 18th. Both, the Bharatanatyam as well as the Handicrafts were so well received, that I have been invited to participate again in May 2005.
On the 20th of November, I was asked to participate in a dance competition. Adjudged the best dancer, I received the beautiful trophy, shaped like the Oscar’s Award & made me feel so good !
It was good to catch up with the Nritya Geethanjali family in the US. Anupama Rajesh, Asha Krishna & even Niranjan, Subadra Murthy’s son, who was kind enough to take me sight-seeing; and thanks to whom I saw Santa Monica, the beautiful beaches of Malibu. I am greatly indebted to Ms. Farah and Mr. Khushroo Unwala, and later, Mr. Farooqui and Dianne, for hosting me. Thanks to the former, I was able to visit Hollywood; the Kodak Theatre where the Oscars ceremony is held, Hollywood Street, Beverley Hills.
I found the audience of Americans very interested in Indian dance, very appreciative of the recitals and eager to learn more. The interactive sessions were so interesting. I really enjoyed them. Indeed, I am fortunate to have such a Guru, who has taught me so much, that I am able to enjoy such experiences.
- Jatinder Singh Bansal
