The rhythmic echoes of classical dance will grace Pune as the ‘Panorama Dance Festival’ unfolds on January 13th and 14th. This two-day celebration, hosted by ‘Artitude,’ marks the illustrious 30-year dance career of the esteemed Guru Smita Mahajan. The festival, a testament to Mahajan’s artistic journey, promises a mesmerizing showcase of her dance drama productions.
The festival is scheduled at the Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre on Ghole Road, featuring four sessions each day from 10 am to 1 pm and 5.30 pm to 8 pm. As a tribute to Guru Smita Mahajan on her 60th birthday, this dance extravaganza is free and open to all on a first-come, first-served basis.
Guru Smita Mahajan stands as a trailblazer in the realm of Bharatnatyam, leaving an indelible mark with over three decades of dedication. A disciple of Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar, Mahajan is not only an accomplished dancer but also a choreographer, composer, musician, and teacher. With more than fifty compositions tailored for Bharatnatyam, she has been a driving force in the promotion of this classical art form.
Highlighted Sessions:
First Day:
- Darasendare Purandaradasa
- Unveiling the life story of the noble saint-poet Purandaradasa through enriching compositions.
- Choreographed and conceptualized by Smita Mahajan.
- Swatantra Yodhini
- A Margam depicting the life sketches of women contributing to India’s freedom struggle.
- Collaboration with Srujan Nad Production, featuring Mahajan’s lyrics and music.
- Meghdoot
- A captivating presentation based on the Marathi translation of Kalidasa’s popular poem.
- Concept, choreography, and writing by Smita Mahajan.
- Shakuntal
- A Marathi Margam unfolding the story of Abhijnanshakuntalam, based on Kalidasa’s renowned play.
- Collaboration with Alka Lajmi Production, featuring Mahajan’s music and choreography.
Second Day:
- Margam Unmesh
- A newly written and composed BharataNatyam Margam, conceptualized and choreographed by Smita Mahajan.
- Devi
- A depiction of various aspects of womanhood through the story of Devi Parvati.
- Conceptualized, choreographed, and written by Smita Mahajan.
- Nrityageetai
- A presentation depicting stability, courage, and inner inspiration based on illustrations from Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta.
- Collaboration with Kala Prangan Production, featuring Mahajan’s music.
Grand Finale: More than 25 artists, including 13 students of Guru Smita Mahajan, along with performers from Vashi, Thane, and Nashik, will showcase their love for classical dance in the concluding performance.
