Kalamandalam Gopi Asan transforms into Nalan yet again
- 05 Mar 2018
- Nikhil
- Features
A Kathakali performance of Nalacharitham was held at Krithi Arts Fest, as part of Krithi International Book Fair going on at Marine Drive Ground
Words by FWD Media Photographs from Krithi International Book Fair
The stage at the Marine Drive Ground, the current venue of the Krithi International Book Fair 2018 was transformed into the kingdom of Nishadha on March 4. The occasion was the performance of the Kathakali rendition of the story of Nalacharitham, masterfully delivered by none other than the maestro Kalamandalam Gopi Asan.
Though it was not the sacred premises of a temple, which is where Kathakali is performed traditionally, the basic rules of performance were obeyed as it was a scene of arts and literature. After a brief introduction, the performance kickstarted to a packed audience that was a commendable mix of Kathakali enthusiasts as well as those not too familiar with the art form, which included both the young and the old.
It was a deft portrayal of the character of Nalan, by the expert performer Gopi Asan. Even at the age of 80, he was an astounding example of commitment towards his art and the personification of excellence and dutifulness. While the entire story of Nalacharitham lasts four days, with each day being divided into different scenes, it was Nalacharitham Onnam Divasam (First Day) that was performed before the audience on the occasion.
It was a packed setting with spectators sitting with rap attention, even as the performance extended to four hours. 83 year old Padmaja Menon sat entranced on the second row, without batting an eyelid throughout. “I have watched Gopi Asan’s performance many time before and I make sure to catch his performance as much as possible,” she said. “It was an enriching experience and I feel honoured to have been able to witness Gopi Asan’s performance,” said Ajesh Balan, who came all the way from Muvattupuzha to watch the show.
Krithi International Book Fest is open from March 1-11, 10 am to 8 pm at Marine Drive Ground.
For updates on the event and the schedule of the Art Fest, visit their website www.krithibookfest.com and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/KrithiBookFest/
