Navatman Drive East Is Back!
Transformation Through Dance: The Journey of Dr. Narthaki Natraj
Artists: Narthaki Natraj
Dates & Time
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Showing 1: 7:00 PM EST - 8:00 PM EST Friday, August 25, 2024 Showing 2: 5:00 PM EST - 6.00 PM EST Navatman, 38 W 32nd St #300 New York 10001 Why we are excited
National award winner Padmashri Narthaki Nataraj joins the line up this year, sharing her story through the medium of bharatanatyam. A tribute to the lineages of dancers past, she is an embodiment of the Tanjore quartet tradition and her guru Kittapa Pillai
Why You Shouldn't Miss This Performance: As the first transgender woman to be awarded India's fourth-highest civilian award, she is unparalleled in her ability to tell stories through nayika bhava - a traditional concept of storytelling in Sanskrit theater and drama. A Journey of Tradition Witness the seamless blend of rare Tamil padams, Devarams, and Thiruvasarams that breathe life into the ancient art form. Her mastery in Nayika Bhava—portraying the heroine's emotions—reveals an unparalleled depth of expression and improvisational prowess. Rare compositions and jathis: Rare jathis and swara patterns embue her work, and her improvisational skills and Tamil poetic prowess add a unique dimension to her performances, making each one a distinct artistic creation. Meet The Artist
Disciple
Narthaki Natraj, is a leading Bharatanatyam Exponent, born in the temple town of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, India. She is the disciple of Tanjore Shri K P Kittappa Pillai, who was a direct descendant of the Tanjore Quartet brothers (considered the fathers of Bharatanatyam). She learnt and practiced under him in Gurukul (Full time residential) for 15 years and specialized in the Tanjore style Nayaki Bhava tradition (Bridal Mystism through Art). Transwoman Being a transwoman, Narthaki, had to overcome numerous societal ridicules and hurdles with stoic courage and steadfast determination. She credits all her achievements to her talent, passion, hard work and perseverance.She is widely regarded as a role model among marginalised communities. Her inspirational life story has been included as a lesson in the Tamil Nadu State Educational Board, Class 11 textbook. Accolades She has been awarded the prestigious Padmashri award, the fourth highest civilian award by the Govt of India, for her contribution and success in the field of Bharatanatyam. She also received the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) Puraskar Award, from The President of India. She received the Nritya Kalanidhi award from the Chennai Music Academy. She is a recipient of Honorary Doctorate from Periyar Maniammai University. She is also a recipient of senior fellowship from the Ministry of Culture Govt. Of India and an outstanding category empanelled artist at ICCR. Some of her recent accolades include: • Vishwa Kala Bharathi – Bharat Kalachar • Life Time Achievement Award – Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan • Dharmapuram Aadheenam – Bharatanatya Kalanidhi • Dharmapuram Aadheenam – Aasthana Vidwan for Performing Arts Artist As a dancer, Narthaki Natraj believes in maintaining and propagating the pristine purity of the Nayaki Bhava tradition (Bridal Mystism). She has been able to elevate audiences to a higher plane during her performances. Many audiences have been moved to tears and some have reported divine experiences during her shows. |
Rare instruments of India: Saraswati and Mrdangam Veena Concert
Artist: Vidyashree Shashidhar & Tejaswi Shashidhar
Dates & Time
Friday, August 23, 2024
Showing 1: 6:30PM EST - 7:30PM EST Saturday, August 24, 2024 Showing 2: 3:00PM EST - 4:00PM EST 38 W 32nd St #300 Why we are excited
The beauty of the instrument:
The Saraswati Veena truly deserves its title as "The Queen of Instruments" in the realm of South Indian classical music. Its elegant design and rich, resonant tones make it an integral part of the Carnatic music tradition of South India. An instrument rarely seen in performance outside of South India, it is a treat to hear its rich tones live in concert which are much harder to capture in recordings. The strength of the rhythmic hand drums: Mrudangam: holds a revered place in the world of Carnatic music, serving as the heartbeat and rhythmic foundation of performances. Hand-crafted artisan work is required to create these instruments: The veena has a pear-shaped body, typically crafted from jackwood, providing a deep and warm resonance, while its long neck adorned with brass or bell-metal frets allows for intricate melodic expressions. The mrdangam is crafted from jackfruit wood and covered with goat, cow, or buffalo skin, and its simple structure creates a rich and versatile range of drum tones both bass and treble in one instrument. Lakshminarayana resonant and smooth playing style: Lakshminarayana sound has a smoothness to it found only in extremely experienced artists. While speed and clarity ring throughout, what really spoke to us was the transitions between notes - not forced but lilting in its approach on the instrument. Family lineage: Son and father play together in this concert, upholding a beautiful tradition of musical families throughout India. Meet the Artists
Shashidhar Lakshminarayana
Shashidhar Lakshminarayana was brought up in a rich musical environment. His father Dr.H.V. Lakshminarayana was a sci- entist at National Aero Space Labs and a great music lover at all times. Shashi was introduced to Veena playing at a tender age of eight by his mother Smt.Rathna Narayan who is also a Veena player. Shashi’s initial tutelage started under Vidwan R.K. Suryanarayan & his brother R. K. Prakash forover a decade. He is currently pursuing his advance lessons from Smt. Revathi Murthy a well-renowned Carnatic Veena artist and AIR A top artist. Shashidhar is not only a renowned musician in India, his name and popularity spreads all around the world including USA & Canada. Apart from his blistering speed Shashi’s performance is distinguished by his style of playing closer to the vocal music and importance to the Raaga Bhava. He holds a Mas- ters Degree in Computer Science from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. Shashi is a B High artist of AIR & his creativity is in manodharma sangeetha which includes Raaga Aalapane, Taana and Swara Prastara. His versatility extends to fusion music and was a part of “Michigan Beats” a fusion group in Detroit. Currently residing in Greensboro-North Carolina he has performed in various prestigious music organizations in USA. |
Yagyaseni - The Ultimate Oblation
Artists: Sangita Chatterjee
Dates & Time
Saturday, August 24th, 2024
Showing 1: 5:00 PM EST - 6:00 PM EST Sunday, August 25th,2024 Showing 2: 1:00 PM EST - 2:00 PM EST Navatman Theatre, 38 W 32nd St #300 New York 10001 Why we are excited
The expansion of a critical moment in time and the thought around decision making when it comes to morality versus law:
The tale of Draupadi is told often, but usually as a short work within a larger tableau of the Mahabharata. The expansion of this pivotal voice in the tale - crucial to the epic - helps us gain perspective as Sangita’s portrayal highlights Draupadi’s unwavering resilience and her willingness to sacrifice her own desires for the greater good and the establishment of dharma. A unique perspective: Draupadi's life is marked by profound emotional turmoil – from her swayamvara and marriage to five husbands, to the injustices and humiliations she endures during the Kurukshetra war. Yet, despite these challenges, she grows and embodies selflessness in her pursuit of righteousness. Chatterjee's performance brings depth and nuance to Draupadi’s relationship with Krishna, whose wisdom and guidance help her navigate her trials with courage and grace. Celebration of the human spirit: Experience the depth of Draupadi’s emotions and her divine bond with Krishna, as Sangita Chatterjee illuminates her role as the ultimate oblation of the Mahabharata. This performance is not just a retelling of an epic story; it is a celebration of eternal brilliance, divinity, and the indomitable spirit of a woman who embodies the principles of dharma and selflessness in the face of adversity. Reflection on a greater story in this timeline: This is more than a dance; it’s an invitation to reflect on resilience, righteousness, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Meet the Artist
Sangita Chatterjee was initiated into dance at a very tender age under the able guidance and tutelage of one of its leading torch bearer, Guru Smt Vaswati Misra. Since then she has been honing her skill in the inimitable style of ‘Luckhnow Gha-rana’- elegance is whose keynote and sensitivity the
soul. She has imbibed within herself the essence of Kathak, its lyrical and sensuous movements,treasure of its scintillating rhythmic patterns and subtle abhinaya. She is an empanelled artist of ICCR, IWCF& SPICK MACAY.Sangita has emerged as a soloist of par excellence and has made her niche as a thinking dancer whose approach towards dance is beyond mere performative. She has given number of solo performances throughout India and abroad ,which were critically acclaimed by the spectators, to name a few Umak Festival Delhi ,Allaudin Khan Academy’s Ekal utsav (Bhopal), Aarambh Festival by Raza Foundation,Delhi,Jayadev Festival ,Bhuvaneshwar, Krishnakshetra by Usha RK ,Delhi,Annual Music and Dance Festival organized by Classic(Calcuta,Delhi,Agartala), Sopan festival by Sahitya Kala Parishad (Delhi),Manthan Festival(Delhi) ,Bhartotsav in Karnataka,Haldiya Festival(West Bengal),Nalanda Nrityotsav (Bombay),Baithak at Pracheen Kala Kendra (Chandigarh),Darpan Festival of Dance and Music (Delhi),Bahrompur Dance festival,Indorama Festival (Bangkok),India International Travel Fare (Taiwan),International Dance Festival (Taiwan), so on and so forth. |
Kalabhairava Ashtakam & Kaalai Thooki
Artists: KH Kanna
Dates & Time
Saturday, August 24th, 2024
Showing 1: 7:00 PM EST - 8:00 PM EST Sunday, August 25th, 2024 Showing 2: 3:00 PM EST - 4:00 PM EST Navatman Theatre, 38 W 32nd St #300 New York 10001 Why we are excited
Concert 1 - Kalabhairava Ashtakam
The story it portrays, of the fierce Kalabhairava embodying Shiva's most fearsome aspect and serving as the guardian of Shiva temples, is rich with symbolism and mythology. The choreography by Sheejith Krishna, set to the lyrics of Adi Shankara Bhagavatpada and composed by Bombay Jayashri, undoubtedly brings this tale to life in a captivating manner. The imagery of Kalabhairava wandering the earth with Brahma's skull as his begging bowl is striking, symbolizing the transcendence of worldly attachments and the relentless pursuit of spiritual truth. The portrayal of Kalabhairava as the destroyer of samsara and sin, the controller of fate and time, and the protector of Benaras adds depth to his character as a divine force beyond mortal comprehension. Set in the Hamsadhwani Ragam and Eka Talam, the music and rhythm of "Kalabhairava Ashtakam" seeks to enhance the intensity and energy of the performance, drawing the audience into the mythical world of Kalabhairava's divine presence. It's fascinating how art can convey such profound themes and stories, inviting us to contemplate the mysteries of existence and the forces that shape our spiritual journey. Concert 2 - Kaalai Thooki The imagery and emotions conveyed in this piece are incredibly poignant. The juxtaposition of devotion and longing, of faith and questioning, creates a deeply introspective atmosphere. The prayers of devotees, whether whispered quietly or proclaimed with fervent passion, reflect the universal human desire for solace and guidance in times of struggle. The portrayal of various divine attributes and actions, such as the lifting of the Vel for Kartikeya, the holding of Parvati and Ganga, and the symbolism of the deer and the axe, adds layers of symbolism to the narrative. These divine acts serve as reminders of the complexities of existence and the interplay between the divine and mortal realms. The central theme of yearning for divine intervention, for a lifting of one's own burdens and struggles, resonates deeply. The longing for grace and favor, even in the face of apparent favoritism towards others, is a sentiment that many can relate to. Yet, amidst this longing, there remains a glimmer of hope and resilience, a belief that one's time will come, and that divine grace will eventually reach out to uplift and support. Set to the Ragam Yadukula Kambhoji and Adi Talam, the music enhances the emotional depth of the piece, drawing the listener deeper into the contemplative journey of the narrator. Overall, this piece beautifully captures the complexities of human faith and the eternal quest for divine connection and understanding. Meet the Artists
K.H. Kanna underwent extensive training in Bharatanatyam under gurus Smt. Malini Pararajasingham, and Sri. Sheejith Krishna. He is a featured dancer in Harbhajan Mann’s movie “Jee Aaya Nu” and Sukhdev Sukha’s “Dhola,” the videos “Show Me What Ya Got” (Nessa V), “Too Soon” (Hey Ocean), “A.L.L.” by MTV’s Eric Solomon,“Testify” (Lady Mona), and “We Party” (Razor B). Kanna has also choreographed for Canadian artistes Karian Sang and Navz47.Further
credits include Vancouver 2010 Olympics, Sanctuary Season 2, Karl Wolfe, and a short movie with choreographer Jae Blaze; the productions “Ganga” and “Kaal – Time” by the Janak Khendry Dance Company (Kuwait, Oman, India.); The 2017 Toronto International Dance Festival, The 2017 Kalanidhi Festival; “Howzat!” by Sampradaya Dance Creations, and “Nadi” by Spanda Dance Company; and Seeta Patel’s “Rite of Spring” (UK).With numerous compositions of the traditional margam to his credit, Kanna is currently developing a Bharata Natyam adaptation of Bhikari Thakur’s “Bidesiya”.Kanna is currently a senior Bharata Natyam instructor at Isha Samskriti, an alternative education system envisioned by Sadhguru at the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, and choreographer for Project Samskriti. He is the artistic director of Prabhāvalī Arts in Toronto, Canada and conducts classes in Canada, USA, France, The Netherlands, and Hong Kong. Under the able guidance of his gurus, Kanna strives to deepen his understanding of this rich art form and spread awareness among the diasporas. |
Rhythmic Remedies: Healing through Indian Classical Ragas
Artist : Rujul Pathak
Dates & Time
Friday, September 13, 2024
Showing 1: 8:00 PM EST - 9:00 PM EST Saturday, September 14, 2024 Showing 2: 3.00 PM EST - 4.00 PM EST Navatman Theatre, 38 W 32nd St #300 New York 10001 Why we are excited
In recent years, music therapy through Indian classical music has garnered significant attention for its ability to address various health issues. Rujul Pathak will guide you through this fascinating interplay of art and science, showcasing specific ragas known for their healing properties. For instance, Raga Bihag, known to alleviate sleeplessness, and Raga Malkauns, which can help regulate low blood pressure, will be performed with detailed explanations of their therapeutic effects.
Learn how sound and melody influence our well being: This concert is more than just a musical performance; it’s an exploration of how sound and melody can influence our well-being. Pathak’s masterful renditions will allow the audience to attune to their own emotions and experiences, providing a reflective space to evaluate the impact of these ragas on their state of mind and body. Artistic Insight: Gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of Indian classical music and its profound connection to human emotions and health. Personal Healing: Use this unique opportunity to listen to ragas that may heal your own body in ways you didn’t know were possible or needed. Meet the Artist
Rujul Pathak is a Hindustani classical vocalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is a disciple of Ustad Shaukat Hussain Khan of the Agra gharana. She comes from a musical family and began singing at a young age. Her first solo recital was at the prestigious Saptak music festival, where she won accolades from maestros of Indian classical music. Rujul has performed in many countries and at several prestigious venues around the world.
With blessings from her guru, Rujul continues to reach higher levels of dexterity in her journey in voice. She is also the recipient of several national awards like the Surmani award and the Pandit Omkarnath Thakur award. Rujul is actively involved in preserving traditional compositions from her musical lineage. She specializes in traditional khayal gayaki but is equally at ease with other genres like Thumris and Bhajans. Rujul creates YouTube videos of her classical bandishes, which have gained immense popularity and over 500,000 global views. Her fusion music channel, Tambura Tales, is where she composes music and collaborates with artists like bass guitarists, saxophonists, pianists, and drummers to create world music videos. |
SUHRUTH ( a well wisher)
Artist : Praveen Kumar
Dates & Time
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Showing 1: 7:00 PM EST - 8:00 PM EST Sunday, September 15, 2024 Showing 2: 2.00 PM EST - 3.00 PM EST Navatman Theatre, 38 W 32nd St #300 New York 10001 Why we are excited
A presentation centered around a man - exploring his relationships as a friend & companion.
A pioneering exploration: Delve into the intricate tapestry of male emotions with Praveen Kumar’s captivating Bharatanatyam performance at the Drive East Festival. This unique presentation examines the profound relationships and inner worlds of men, highlighting themes of love, support, guidance, and companionship. A profound reflection of the male emotional spectrum. In many classical Indian dance items, it is the woman’s emotions that are explored in depth (even by male artists!) In an off the beaten path exploration. Experience rare and seldom-explored themes in dance, such as a man's inner turmoil and societal roles, portrayed with sensitivity and depth. Rich emotional landscape: From the pain of rejection to the joy of companionship, and from ego struggles to moments of vulnerability, Kumar’s performance offers a rich, emotional landscape that resonates deeply. Meet the Artist
Hailing from a family of artists, Praveen Kumar showed a natural inclination towards Arts and Dance at a very young age. His tutelage under the eminent gurus Smt. Narmada and Prof.C.V.Chandrasekhar helped him realize the aesthetic depths, traditional of Bharathanatyam and dedicate himself wholeheartedly and purposefully to this ancient dance form.
Praveen is an accomplished nattuvanar and choreographer and has skillfully ideated several critically acclaimed productions to his credit including Rtu Vismruthi, Vani, Shiva Sutra Jaala, Sakha, Loka Bandhavyam, Anagha Vilasa , Pandharpur & many more.. Through his dance productions, he has explored aspects like climate change, fabrics, various complexities and nuances within interpersonal relationships, under-discussed dimensions of mythology, besides paying a tribute to cultural icons and poets like Mysore Vasudevachar, Sundaram Pillai, sage Panini. From his flawless footwork to his layered understanding of nritta, abhinaya and his skillful choreography, Praveen Kumar has consistently received critical acclaim over the years and has redefined himself as a performer, staying abreast with the times. He believes that learning is always two-sided and has strived to be relevant, without losing the essence of the form. He has traveled extensively around the globe and in India, taking part in prestigious dance and music festivals and is also the founder of the Chithkala School of Dance at Bangalore. Praveen Kumar – an empanelled artist of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) and an ‘A’ grade artist on television – believes that dance is the ultimate medium of creative expression and has immense therapeutic value. |
Music for Global Peace
Artist : Tarun Bhattacharya
Dates & Time
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Showing 1 : 5:00 PM EST - 6:00 PM EST Sunday, September 15, 2024 Showing 2 : 4:00 PM EST - 5:00 PM EST Navatman Theatre, 38 W 32nd St #300 New York 10001 Why we are excited
Tarun Bhattacharya stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the world of Indian classical music. His unique playing style, marked by remarkable dexterity and emotional depth, has redefined the santoor’s place in the musical canon. Bhattacharya’s mastery over the instrument, coupled with his innovative techniques like meend (glides) and rapid strokes, brings a fresh and dynamic quality to his performances. Not only has Bhattacharya expanded the expressive range of the santoor, but he has also been instrumental in globalizing Indian classical music, performing at prestigious venues and collaborating with artists across genres. His profound understanding of ragas and rhythmic patterns allows him to create compositions that are both complex and deeply moving.
Don’t miss this chance to see a true maestro in action. Tarun Bhattacharya’s performance at the Drive East Festival is a highlight that promises to inspire and delight, offering a rare glimpse into the magic of the santoor. Join us for an evening of extraordinary music and be part of a cultural celebration like no other. Meet the Artist
SANGEET NATAK AWARDEE ( Govt. of India) Pt. Tarun Bhattacharya (Born in 1957) is Maihar Gharana’s only santoor maestro and is widely regarded "as the MASTER OF 100 STRINGS." "SANGEET MAHASAMMAN" Award Winner from the Govt. of West Bengal, Bhattacharya incorporated meend, an expressive sliding style of ornamentation. Indian classical music shall forever remember this master because of two inventions inventing “MENKAS”(fine tuners) and creating RAAG GANGA inspired by the Swach Ganga Abhiyan of our Honorable
PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI JI. Tarun Ji has also been inducted as a Member in the Indian Institute of Heritage (Ministry of Culture, Govt.of India). He’s also a Jury member for Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (I.C.C.R.) Pdt Tarun Bhattacharya has performed in world's top notch venues viz Royal Albert Hall, Theater De La Ville, Apollo Theater, Jubilee Auditorium and his list of admirers include Prince Charles, George Harrison, Amitabh Bachchan, Paolo Solaris and many more. He is also involved with humanitarian activities and has been the BRAND AMBASSADOR OF ROTARY INTERNATIONAL for their awareness against POLIO & THALLASEMIA. Pt. Bhattacharya also runs a philanthropic organization called Santoor ashram which provides free musical lessons and instruments to the underprivileged yet promising musicians and provides them a platform to express their talent. |