Mysore/Mysuru: Champaka Educational and Cultural Trust, Mysuru, conducted the Pushya Edition of its monthly Cultural Fest ‘Champaka Rashtreeya Kalaa Utsava’ on Feb. 17 showcasing Bharatanatyam performances by accomplished artistes from Bengaluru and Mysuru.

The evening started with an enjoyable and lively Bharatanatyam performance by junior disciples of Vidushi Dr. Nagalakshmi Nagarajan, Founder of Champaka Academy, Mysuru. It was the first performance for many of them and brought great delight to parents and others assembled.

Disciples of Dr. Shubharani Bolar, Director of Bharatha Nritya Sangeetha Academy, Bengaluru, presented ‘Navarasa Krishna,’ a Bharatanatyam feature. The varnam showcased was of intricate abhinaya portraying the 9 rasas through Krishna’s life stories, presented by dedicated disciples pursuing various professions, much to the delight of art-lovers in the audience.

Vidwan Badari Divya Bhushan, Director of Bhushans’ Academy of Performing Arts & Visual Presentation, Mysuru, along with his disciples, presented ‘Ramabhyudayam,’ a Bharatanatyam feature, that showcased various episodes from Sri Rama’s life. The feature included fusion of Yoga and dance by his disciples including his children.

Chief guest, C.R. Nagaraj, Vice-President of Sadvidya Educational Institutions, distributed certificates of appreciation to all performers. He spoke of the importance of taking these art forms forward in the society and the role played by organisations like Champaka Academy.