Subhaashitam: Parables from India

Synopsis

"Subhaashitam." It is Sanskrit for "good words", words of wisdom, words that make us think, words that educate, inspire, and convey universal human values. Indian classical dance has always linked movement to words. As a temple dance form, Bharatanatyam has traditionally used lyrics that are religious or devotional in nature. Yet Bharatanatyam's expressive gestural language can be used to illuminate all kinds of stories and ideas, inspiring choreographers today to find or commission lyrics from non-traditional and non-religious sources. This work uses both conventional and non-conventional "Subhaashitam" to explore the arena of human values.

PART ONE: A short suite of three dances that highlights the traditional use of lyrics in Bharatanatyam. (40 minutes)

Prasanna Vadana Stuti: A dance of invocation to Lord Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles using three well-known Sanskrit prayers. (Language: Sanskrit)

"Yarenna Sonnalum": An expressive dance with lyrics by the poet-saint, Oothukaadu Venkatasubbaiyer, that stress the importance of simplicity and purity of heart in spiritual life. (Language: Tamil)

Tillana: A vigorous dance highlighting the beautiful movements and intricate footwork patterns of Bharatanatyam. The lyrics consist of a famous Sanskrit verse that articulates the path to aesthetic enjoyment and the appreciation of beauty in the world around us. (Language: Sanskrit)

PART TWO: PARABLES FROM INDIA - This original dance-drama uses five stories from ancient Indian literature to focus on universal human values. (85 minutes)

True Friendship: These verses from the Thirukkural state that the source of true friendship is not merely a smile on the face, but rather feelings of sincerity, compassion and love which arise from deep within one's soul. (Language: Tamil)

Never Rush to Judgment: This well-known story from the Panchatantra tells the tragic and moving tale of a woman who kills her own beloved pet mongoose because of a hasty and incorrect judgment based on wrong understanding and preconceived prejudice. (Language: Tamil)

The Power of Honesty: This wonderful Jataka Tale, full of wisdom and humor, tells the story of a wise king, a good-natured thief who wants to change his ways, and a greedy chief minister who loses all. By taking a vow of honesty, and upholding it in the face of difficulty, the thief's life is transformed forever. (Language: Tamil)

Respect for Elders: This poignant story from the Jataka collection, tells how a young boy teaches his selfish father an important lesson in how to respect and care for elders. (Language: Tamil)

Strength in Unity: This traditional Indian folk tale features a simple and wise farmer who uses a bundle of sticks to teach his bickering sons the important lesson that in unity there is great strength. (Language: Telugu)