Krishna BhAratham: A lesson in humility

My conversation with the Choreographer of Krishna BhAratham turned out to be quite the spiritual experience. 

Having approached him to discuss his experience with working with SIFAS and our dancers, the conversation instead took on an inspiring twist where he shared values he had learnt in his own life. I was beginning to understand why the performers were in such awe of him. He spoke little of himself and his achievements. Instead, his work and his subtle influence on those around him spoke volumes. He was indeed a unique presence in our Arts Festival atmosphere. Even I felt some regret that I had not been more involved with this project.

Having heard from some of the performers in prior articles, we have today, extracts of an interview with the Choreographer himself, a presence we affectionately address as Sheejith Sir. Having spoken to him and observed the rehearsal, it becomes obvious that this will be a production you will regret missing. Unlike most dance performances which tend to focus mainly on the dance and music (obviously), this production seems to be a subtle attempt at social reform utilizing the age old medium of the Bhagavad Gita verses.

Krishna BhAratham

8 pm, 8 April 2012 at the Esplanade.

For more details or tickets, do contact SIFAS at 6299 5929.

You may also wish to contact us at sifasalumni@gmail.com

Now, a little more from the man himself..

I learnt from Kalakshetra that an artiste should be humble; the better to learn and also to give

I tell my students to be like a sponge of good things; all aesthetic values included. What you learn, how you stand, mannerisms etc

In dealing with culture and tradition, we try to portray good things through the art. Show good things about your life, not vulgar.

You must also be approachable, then only will you become a complete artiste.

Even while working in a group, I tell the students that working in a group is always more difficult yet rewarding. In fact, I often make them stand together and hold hands before commencing.

Parasparam is very important to me. Even in relation to trees. In observing the child ( I believe he was referring to the dancers) their faces bloom a different way when we melt their hearts. (wow!)

Sometimes you forget why you are an artist. What is your duty as an artist? And it’s a journey. Just need to remind you not to hurt anyone. That will remain in your dance.