Significant Milestone
In a significant contribution to Indian classical dance literature, the three-volume work Margam Unmesh has been included in the prestigious Saraswati Mahal Library, Thanjavur.
The first time in nearly 300 years — since the Maratha Bhosale rulers — that a significant treasure of 100+ Marathi and Hindi Bharatanatyam compositions has been formally documented.
The Work
Written in Marathi and Hindi — a contemporary expansion of the traditional dance repertoire.
100+ original compositions including Stuti, Mallari, Koutuvams, Jatiswarams, Shabdams, Varnams, Padams, Tillanas, and Mangalams.
Composed in Carnatic music across varied Ragas and Talas — bridging South Indian rhythm with North Indian linguistic nuances.
Explores traditional mythology and innovative contemporary themes, with human emotions applicable to modern life.
Highlights
Raga Chakravakam, Rupaka Tala — a poignant depiction of Sita's emotional state during captivity in the Ashokvana.
Longing for a glimpse of Krishna from three perspectives — Yashoda, Radha, and Meera — linked by the refrain: लागलासे एक छंद, गो वद गो वद.
A lyrical tribute to Music, illustrating how the art form leads to the highest spiritual levels, independent of Sahitya.
Two varieties of Nayika in separate Padams using the same tune and Tala — subtle phrasing changes differentiate character.
Raga Kalyani, Tishra Gati Adi Tala — an ode to the dancer's eyes, interweaving Jatis with melodic Sahitya.
A prayer for divine forgiveness for any technical shortcomings, guidance toward rectification, and aesthetic bliss for the rasika.
Includes Devanagari text with English meanings. Audio recordings of the first 51 compositions are available for scholars and dancers.