Sakhi – a fresh approach to the imperative friend

The Sakhi or friend is an intrinsic part of Indian Mythology and in turn Indian Dance. Numerous presentations have regaled the role of the Sakhi. But a fresh approach was explored by young classical dancers Tanya Saxena, Era Dogra and Pavitra Bhat in a presentation “सखे! त्वम् मम मित्रम् – o Sakhi you are my friend!” at Sangeet Shyamala, New Delhi on August 10.

New lyrics, new music compositions, new choreographies, exploring the innermost thoughts and feelings of the Sakhi was the uniqueness of this presentation.

While the first two segments by Tanya and Pavitra Bhat, were in the Bharata Natyam style the concluding segment was presented in the Kathak style by Era Dogra. Identical sentiments for the Sakhi as those in Bharata Natyam are visible even in the popular classical form of North India.

Era Dogra painted the canvas of a beautiful relationship- friendship. A bond that starts between two people with a single thread of acquaintance, but goes deep on the passage of time like an endless ocean whose water reflects purity and sanity just like a true friend.

The compositions were written by Kathak duos Abhimanyu and Vidha Lal. The music was composed by Guru Smt. Geetanjali Lal and the dance choreography was by Guru Smt. Geetanjali Lal and Vidha Lal.

The music ensemble included Pavithra Chari – vocal, Zakir Hussain Warsi – Tabla, Salman Khan – Pakhawaj, Flute – Rajat Prasanna, Padhant – Vidha Lal, Nattuvangam- Akshaya R.

You may like to know more: Sakhi – in praise of the friend