(On Mallika Sarabhai’s dance performance, “India: Then, Now, Forever,” at University City Hall, Sharjah.)
On boundless swift grace,
Glowing, up there on stage,
You were dusk and dawn’s dew,
All at once!
That’s how my seeing thoughts are fulfilled:
Of dunes in their flailing motion.
The works of Allah are marvellous.
Straight from light and dark,
How you glittered!
Upon my head:
I can say,
You are one song of His marvels!
Under the Patronage of H. H. Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qassimi (Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah), H. E. Venu Rajamony (Consul General of India, Dubai) and H. E. Ahmed Mohammed Al Midfa (Chairman, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry), along with Indian Business & Professional Council, Sharjah Indian Association, we were invited for a Cultural Evening in association with ‘the first’ India – Sharjah Business & Cultural Forum.
This show was a travel through time and incorporated classical, folk, tribal and contemporary dance to celebrate India’s multi-culturalism and plurality. Separately, a variety performance by school children also took place.
Apart from the above verse dedicated to Mallika Sarabhai’s dance performance and her group-members’ total effort, I have a one-liner to add. The show began late, but it was worth the wait!
Geeta Chhabra
Glossary.
Mallika Sarabhai – She is the daughter of classical danseuse Mrinalini Sarabhai and renowned space scientist Vikram Sarabhai. Mallika is an accomplished Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dancer. She is also known for her contribution in the fields of theatre, television, film, writing and publishing
