REVOLUTIONARY NEW REPERTOIRE IN BHARATANAATYAM

"Natyanjali - full of vigor and vitality...a very novel invocatory presentation. It was their Varnam (duet) that set them apart as accomplished artistes, the swara patterns themselves substituting for sahitya, a rarely thought of but very welcome innovation... It was Shanta and Dhananjayan's duet rendering of thillana in Kuntalavarali that was a delightful fantasy of rhythmic pattern inspiring each other in competitive ‘laya-avartanam'…a very entertaining innovatory dance recital enjoyed by all." - Times of India, Ahmedabad, Dec 13, 1978

"Their repertoire differed from other Bharata Natyam artistes in content and presentation. With their strong urge for ‘fresh fields and pastures new', they have undertaken fresh researches in choreography, new themes and new ideas." - Indian Express Sunday Standard, Mumbai, May 8, 1977

"The duo's renditions of the opening Natyanjali, the vibrant Kuntalavarali Thillana and the delightful mini-ballet comprising excerpts from the Geeta Govinda...Here indeed was Kalakshetra technique shown at its sparkling best." - Times of India, Mumbai May 1, 1977 (Swami Haridas Sangeeta Sammelan)

"Excellent recital by dance couple….Balamuralikrishna's Kuntalavarali Thillana performed by the duo was a real treat. Speed, tempo and intricate patterns emerged in an arresting manner" - Evening News of India, Mumbai, Apr 30, 1977

"The Thillana in Kuntalavarali composed by Dr. Balamuralikrishna was typical of the great artiste with enchanting variations, and the Dhananjayans executed this very well". - HS, Indian Express, 1976

"An ambitious attempt and remarkable achievement. Some of its good qualities should be emulated by all dancers. He changed his costumes in less than 2 minutes flat. Nrityanjali - a taxing number to perform and a sprightly one to see. The varnam in Atana was a joy to listen and behold. The choreography, an exquisitely faceted jewel. Anandanadamidum of Sivan, Varugalamo of Gopalakrishna Bharati, Yaro of Arunachala Kavi, an ashtapadi of Jeyadeva and a thillana of Balamuralikrishna in Kuntalavarali were evidences of high choreographic and interpretive skills and excellent taste." - VAK Ranga Rao, Indian Express, Nov 30, 1974

Revolutionary new repertoire in Bharatanaatyam - Details