Cultural Program by Sri Sathya Sai Seva Institution, Alike

"Choodamani Pradanam", a YakshaGana (Folk art form) presentation

August 23, 2008

The students of the Sri Sathya Sai Loka Seva Institutions, Alike put up a grand and vibrant presentation of Yakshagana and enthralled one and all by the sheer power of their performance.

The Yakshagana is a combination of musical narration, dance and drama and it is a unique folk art form of coastal Karnataka. Here the characters give expression to their thoughts and feelings through their dance and actions. The actors enact the song sung by Bhagavatha (Singer).

Bhagawan encouraged the students before the programme by interacting with them on the backstage charging them up for the presentation.

The story chosen by the students for this presentation was “Choodamani Pradanam” (literally translated as ‘the gift of the crest jewel’). It was predominantly drawn from the Sundara Kanda of the Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam though some scenes where from Kishkinda Kandam and Yudha Kandam as well.

The most significant factor about this presentation was the wonderful characterisation of Lord Hanuman, whom Bhagawan repeatedly advises His students to consider as their role model. Hanuman was shown alternatively as a devout servant, humble soldier, powerful adversary, confident warrior and witty messenger. The student performed all the roles with utmost dexterity and captured the imagination of the audience.

The other students also effectively complimented the protagonist which resulted in a power packed performance. Here a special mention has to be given to the music group which was the voice behind the whole presentation. The singer with his sonorous voice gave a fitting gravity to the presentation.

As extremely pleased mother that He was, He immediately proceeded towards the boys and gifted them with group photographs. He interacted with most of them and blessed two of the participants with chains. Not yet contended, He then instructed that T-shirts be given to all the boys and safari clothes and silk dhotis for the musicians and organisers.