Rama Vaidyanathan’s new work ‘Maalyada’ to be staged in Chennai

The Tamil month of Margazhi may have drawn to a close, but artistes’ bond with Andal continues to flourish. Bharatanatyam exponent Rama Vaidyanathan now presents ‘Maalyada’ (Andal’s sacred garland), a unique dance production. While most works inspired by Andal draw directly from her poetry, ‘Maalyada’ takes cue from a book by bureaucrat-author Jeysundhar D.

The book offers a fascinating comparison between the Tiruppavai and the Bhagavatam, delving into Andal’s inner world — how, as a 12-year-old, she visualised the Bhagavatam and interpreted it through her verses. Rama explains that the production explores the navavidha bhakti (nine forms of devotion) Andal espouses, weaving together verses in both Tamil and Sanskrit.

The work features verses in Tamil and Sanskrit
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“When I was handed a copy of the book and asked if it could be translated into dance, I knew it would be a huge challenge. But as I began working, I was eager to give expression to the words and the stunning illustrations by the inimitable Keshav through movement and music,” says Rama.

The production features four of Rama’s disciples, with one portraying Andal herself. Commissioned by HCL Concerts, the work is enriched by music composed by the talented singer Sudha Raghuraman. ‘Maalyada’ premieres in Chennai on January 16 at Narada Gana Sabha, before traveling to Hyderabad on January 18 and Bengaluru on January 26.