Merry Krish-mas!

Some gods are human enough to move us at the right places. Just days before Janmashtami, Ballet Krishna introduces you to an unknown side of the beloved deity

Some gods are human enough to move us at the right places. Just days before Janmashtami, Ballet Krishna introduces you to an unknown side of the beloved deity

Talk of lovable lords, and the first name that comes to mind is that of Krishna. The tricks, tantrums and mischief of the Maakhan Chor stand unsurpassed and admired centuries after mythology first chronicled them.

It's no wonder then, that art, drama and dance have always seeked inspiration from his splendid stories, and presented piety with much panache.

Just ahead of Janmashtami comes yet another promising performance, and this one, you can't miss.u00a0

Chori to chhori

Presented by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra, the two-part theatrical work has been choreographed by Shashidharan Nair. "The first half portrays his youthful antics, like makhan chori, the Govardhan incident, Radha-Krishna Milan, Kansa Vadh, Dwarka Gaman, Sudama Charitra and Kaliya Raas. Here, a new dimension is added to the status of women, where Krishna himself elevates the status of Radha from 'a beloved' to 'divine consort'," says Shobha Deepak Singh, director. Renderings from 12th century poet Jaidev add to the beauty.

Creative odes like Geet Govind, Chaurashtrakam, and Radhika Ashtakam are also playing ally.

What you didn't know

The second part of the act relies on a specially commissioned script of lesser-known incidents from the Mahabharata. Here, you can witness Rajsuyya Yagna, Draupadi Vastra Haran, Krishna's peace message of Geeta and Bhishma Vadh, among others. "The script deals with incidents that open up a plethora of topics for discussion those that are universal and timeless," signs off Shobha.

Krishna
When: August 11-15
Where: Kamani Auditorium, Copernicus Marg
Timings: 6 pm-7pm
Tickets: Rs 1,000, 500, 300, 200, 100
Available at: Kendra and Kamani Auditorium
Ring: 43503333, 23386428/29