Usually, mid-December every year is cause for celebration in Chennai — as it brings on the onset of the Margazhi season, kutcheris, rasikas, sabha-hopping paatis, delicious food trails and temple walks, and the anticipation of millions across the world who follow the legendary music festival with bated breath. In a first, last year, Margazhi was postponed due to the floods — and now this year, in the wake of the CM’s death and the devastating cyclones, how will the city’s performers react? Expectations are low-key as the city struggles to get back on its feet... will this cause the artistes to be demotivated or be inspired to put up a bigger show?
Most intriguing of all, with spirituality and luck being a big part of many performers’ beliefs, there’s talk that some have found the happenings inauspicious — and might call off their recitals. So, what can Chennai and the rest of the country expect from Margazhi this season? Bharatanatyam exponent and founder of Kala Sadhanalaya, Revathi Ramachandran is upset with the turn of events in the city.
“Unlike 2013 and 2014, this year’s Margazhi scene is overall dull. I am a great admirer of Jayalalithaaji. She was a dancer herself and her demise has brought gloom to people across the city. And now, with this cyclone, I haven’t felt like doing anything for the last two days. We are getting back to the normal practice schedule and hope that everything will be fine by the 20th. We are working hard, and my students are back with the silangais on their feet.”
Sikkil C Gurucharan, who is preparing for his concerts, is hopeful that the music and melody will win over the sadness. “Considering the resilience and spirit of Chennaiites and their love for music and dance, they will be back at the sabhas. I had a concert just after JJ’s demise, but the concert hall was full. After the cyclone Vardah, many sabhas have postponed events as people are unable to leave their houses because of the road blocks by uprooted trees. Also, networks are gone and power needs to be restored in many places. It’s just a matter of time and I’m sure that it will be back to normal in a couple of days.”
Bharatanatyam exponent Dr Srinidhi Chidambaram, who is curating the 36th edition of Sri Krishna Gana Sabha’s Natya Kala Conference, titled Sthiti Gati, has her first performance today. “We are keeping our fingers crossed. I think everything will be alright. The peak season is yet to start. Artists are professionals and no matter what happens, the show must go on.”
