Nrityapura (Opening) presented by Sangeet Natak Akademi

The video shows the opening performance from the dance programme Nrityarupa, organized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. Nrityarupa showcases six Indian dance forms: Odissi from Odisha; Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu; Chhau from East India; Manipuri dance from Manipur; Kathak from North India; Kathakali from Kerala. The programme opens with a Shiva-stuti as an offering to the Nataraja (Lord of Dance).The performers come to the stage in pairs, each representing their particular dance form for the stuti and then dance individually. In the opening sequence the unique characteristics of each dance form is established along with their complementary aspects. As Nrityarupa is conceptualized on the special unity in diversity character of the Indian nation, this performance highlights the harmonious diversity of India's culture.