With Father’s Day fast approaching, the Sanskruti Centre for Cultural Excellence is set to host a truly unique and evocative event at the Nehru Centre next week. Designed as a heartfelt tribute to fathers, forefathers, and father figures across generations, the event promises to blend tradition, performance, and storytelling in a powerful homage to those who have shaped our cultural and spiritual heritage.
Titled 'Pitru Vandana' – meaning “homage to the fathers” – the event is the brainchild of Ragasudha Vinjamuri, an award-winning Indian classical dancer and cultural curator.
Speaking to iGlobal, Vinjamuri shared her vision: “We’ve selected key figures from history who have made significant contributions to our society, heritage, and the cultural arts. From ancient sages to legendary scholars, we want to spotlight their impact in a way that resonates with today’s audiences.”
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The curation process was both thoughtful and intricate. Vinjamuri explains: “Take Bharatanatyam, for example. It’s a dance form we revere today, but it exists because of Bharat Muni, who codified its principles in the 'Natya Shastra'. Without his contributions, this classical art form might never have survived. Similarly, from mythological figures like Radha’s father – often overlooked despite his place in stories we know so well – to historical personalities whose legacies continue to shape our understanding of science, music, and spirituality, we’re weaving them all into this tapestry of remembrance.”
The showcase will feature a vibrant line-up of dance and theatrical performances spanning classical styles such as Bharatanatyam, Mohiniattam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Karagattam, along with energetic folk dances. Each performance will narrate stories of iconic father figures rooted in Indian heritage.
Performers including Manju Sunil, Sanvika Kommineni, Harsha Rani, Soundarya Gokulnath, Debabrata Pal, Lakshmi Pillai, and Vinjamuri herself will bring these tales to life, along with vocals from Anjana Vasa and a mono act by Sushil Rapatwar.
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Some of the remarkable personalities being honoured include Dhanvantari, regarded as the father of Ayurveda; Annamacharya, the Telugu saint-poet and musician; and Aryabhatta, the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer credited with the concept of zero.
With a mission to reignite appreciation for the wisdom and legacy of these father figures, 'Pitru Vandana' offers audiences a rare opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and connect with the roots of Indian culture in a deeply meaningful way.
*Info: Pitru Vandana