Palkhi 2013

In the Hindu month of Ashad (June-July) every year lakhs of devotees from all over Maharashtra join the traditional Palkhi (Palanquin) of Sant Dyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram from Alandi and Dehu respectively.  The devotees known as 'Warkaris' cover a distance of nearly 250kms to reach the famous temple of Lord Vitthoba in Pandharpur. Chanting, singing and dancing all along the road the sight of people engrossed in devotion is  a treat to the eye. This tradition was started by son of Sant Tukaram nearly 300 years ago and continues till date. Historians also believe that pilgrim to Pandharpur in the month of Ashad dated back to as early as 11-12th century.

click on the photos to enlarge (slideshow)

Bharatnatyam by Bragha Bessell

Bharatnatyam is a classical dance form of India having its roots in the state of Tamil Nadu.  Its a very interesting mixture of elaborate gestures (Mridu Angaharas), sentiments (Rasas), emotions (Bhavas), actions (Kriyas) and costume (Sringara).

I have always been fascinated by the classical dance forms of India and never miss a chance to see one. Allow me to take you to one such beautiful performance by Smt Bragha Bessell of Chennai. 

Smt Bragha Bessell is senior disciple of  Padma Shri Adyar K Lakshman and Smt Kalanidhi Narayanan. She is recipient of several awards and has performed at many venues both in India and abroad. She specializes in the 'Abhinaya' or acting part of Bharatnatyam and has earned several accolades for her style.  

Here is a small glimpse of a two hour performance she gave at the Pune University last week. 

Hope you like the pictures.