Margi Tradition of Natya Shastra

Lecture & Performance
Bala Devi Chandrashekar
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Bala Devi Chandrashekar will give a lecture and presentation outlining the classical Indian dance forms, and trace the connection between the literary and current practices in classical styles, based on the technique laid out in both Natya shastra and allied texts. She will also outline the classical approach to architecture, Iconography and temple ritual - the focus will be on Natyashastra and temple architecture, here the stage or "Ranga" along with core components of Natya and Nritya will be outlined.

Bala Devi will discuss on how ancient aesthetics has guided the twin art of dance and iconography; here the laws of symmetry and proportion will be highlighted as the base for performing arts and iconography. Comparison will be drawn between natyashastra and shilpashastra with respect to iconography and postures in dance. She will then give a synopsis of the 108 karanas or temple sculptures. Under the temple ritual component the actual concert or stage performance and purvaranga( rituals performed before aperformance) will be discussed.

This presentation will be followed by a performance - snippet from her latest production - "Brihadesewara - form to formless, through the eyes of a Devaradiyal".