Promoting awareness on classical dance
According to Zinnat Barkatullah, director, Department of Production, BSA, "Prior to 'Partition', Bangladesh, India and Pakistan shared a common culture. However, after 1947, the classical dance forms almost became exclusively Indian. Hence to reincarnate the classical dance form in our country we have been sending many of our students to prestigious dance schools in India to learn the art. Today will be a display of their finesse."
True to her words, one by one the performers came on to a simple yet elegantly decorated stage, dazzling the audience with their vibrant choice of costumes and an array of graceful performances. They were selected from all over Bangladesh, not to mention the dancers exclusively trained in India. The numbers of spectators gradually picked up to a full house. With the auditorium resonating in classical beats and taals, the dancers presented splendid soul appetising solos.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. There were four main dance forms, namely Odissi, Manipuri, Bharatnatyam and Kathak. The performers were Proma Obonti, Warda Rihab, Bebi Rozario, Sabbir Ahmed Khan, Sudeshna Swayamprabha, Shumaiya Chowdhury, Salma Begum, Shampreeti Rezwana Rahman, Bidhan Chandra, Rokeya Begum, Sarita Haidar, Mehraj Haque, Samina Hossain, Orno Komolika, Tahmina Islam, Trina Das, Sabrina Safi and Tabassum Ahmed.
In the words of Bharatnatyam dancer Rokeya Begum, "It is for the first time in Bangladesh that a government initiative has been taken to showcase exclusive classical dance. While there are many private organisations doing the same, an effort by the government should boost the art." Adds 17- year-old Kathak dancer Mehraj, "The number of classical dance enthusiasts in our country is limited. Such programmes will generate interest and appreciation for the art among the masses."