Prepare to be captivated by the divine interplay of art, spirituality, and cultural heritage at Whispers of the River and the Tree, an extraordinary Bharatanatyam production premiering on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Prestige Centre for Performing Arts, Bengaluru. This majestic performance not only celebrates the sacred legacy of the Sri Venugopalakrishnaswamy Temple but also contributes to a greater cause—supporting the rejuvenation of the Cauvery River and the restoration of this historic temple at Paschimavahini.
A Celebration of Art and Devotion
With a cast of over 100 distinguished artists, this grand production is a harmonious fusion of classical Bharatanatyam, original choreography, and soulful compositions. Directed by the renowned Bharatanatyam maestros Poornima K. Gururaja and Badari Divya Bhushan, the performance bridges timeless tradition with contemporary artistry, creating an unforgettable cultural experience.
A Narrative Rooted in Spirituality
Set against the backdrop of a serene ancient temple, a flowing river, and a sacred tree, the production tells a profound story of love, loss, devotion, and rediscovery. The narrative unfolds through vivid imagery, showcasing life’s most poignant moments—a bride and groom’s arranged union, the heartbreak of loss, acts of selfless sacrifice, the excitement of uncovering hidden treasures, and nature’s eternal wisdom. The performance culminates in a breathtaking finale, promising to leave the audience inspired and spiritually uplifted.
Inspired by a Sacred Legacy
The story draws inspiration from the Sri Venugopalakrishnaswamy Temple, located by the banks of the Cauvery River at Paschimavahini, Srirangapatna, near Mysore. This temple holds immense spiritual and historical significance. According to its sthala purana (legend) from 1810 C.E., a devout Kodugu Sreenivasa Iyengar discovered the idol of Sri Venugopalakrishnaswamy under an Aswatha tree, guided by a divine vision. The temple continues to be a cherished pilgrimage destination, especially during Tula Sankramana (mid-October to mid-November), when devotees gather to pay homage.
Visionaries Behind the Production
This remarkable production is the brainchild of Roopa P. Doraswamy, Founder of GoBrahma Productions, a Bharatanatyam enthusiast, and a corporate lawyer with a passion for creating impactful artistic endeavors. Speaking about the event, she shared:
“Whispers of the River and the Tree is a tribute to the sacred legacy of the Sri Venugopalakrishnaswamy Temple. Crafted with reverence, this production unites the beauty of Bharatanatyam with the spiritual richness of our heritage. My heartfelt gratitude to Kalasindhu Academy, Bhushans’ Academy, and the Sri Venugopalakrishnaswamy Seva Samithi for their collaboration and dedication.”
The production is further brought to life by:
- Poornima K. Gururaja, Artistic Director of Kalasindhu Academy, a celebrated choreographer and recipient of the Natya Kala Koushal and Kempegowda Awards.
- Badari Divya Bhushan, Artistic Director of Bhushans’ Academy, a globally acclaimed Bharatanatyam performer, composer, and costume designer.
These visionaries, alongside the Sri Venugopalakrishnaswamy Seva Samithi, have come together to present a spellbinding celebration of Indian culture, spirituality, and the enduring bond between art and nature.
Join the Celebration
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a masterpiece that blends heritage, spirituality, and cause into a breathtaking artistic experience.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Venue: Prestige Centre for Performing Arts, Bengaluru
Be part of this soulful journey and contribute to preserving the cultural and spiritual legacy of Paschimavahini. Mark your calendars now!