‘Ram-Shyam’: Uma Sharma’s Kathak celebration of Ram and Krishna

Padma Bhushan Kathak dancer Dr Uma Sharma and her disciples will present Ram-Shyam, a special Janmashtami programme exploring the worlds of Lord Ram and Krishna through Kathak, abhinaya and Brij-Raas, on September 4 at the India International Centre in New Delhi.

Now in its 22nd consecutive year, the annual presentation will bring together selected episodes from Sharma’s dance ballets Ramayan and Maharaas Leela. The programme will feature Krishna’s Govardhan Leela, Makhan Chori Leela and Kaliya Mardan Leela, along with an excerpt from Ramayan titled Panchvati Varnan.

The evening will also include a screening of Shri-Radha, a short film produced by Sharma, followed by a Thumri-abhinaya performance by the dancer. The presentation will explore the contrasting expressions of Ram and Krishna, with Ram representing maryada and dharma, and Krishna symbolising divine play, love and wisdom.

The programme is part of the larger Krishna Legend presentation and continues Sharma’s annual Janmashtami tradition. Her disciples will join her in bringing together classical dance, devotional expression, music and narrative to portray episodes from the two traditions.

Music for the presentation is by the late Pt Jwala Prasad, while the dance choreography is by Dr Uma Sharma. Smt Rashmi Malik, Chairperson of the Spic Macay Foundation, will be the chief guest.

When: September 4; 6.30 pm

Where: C.D. Deshmukh Auditorium, India International Centre, Max Mueller Marg, New Delhi