Ragamala Painting

Part 3 of Lalgudis profile is in this issue. 

This issue also carries a landmark essay on The Concept Of Raga (33-38). Written by Prof. S.K. Saxena of New Delhi, who is highly respected for his studies in the field of classical music and Kathak, it is an essay that draws fine distinctions in unfolding the concept of the raga which constitutes the unique basis of Indian classical music. A full comprehension of the subject may require more than one reading, but the effort should be worthwhile, to say the least. The front cover appropriately carries a reproduction of a ragamala painting. Another article to which I must direct your special attention is entitled Bharatanatyam. Its Relevance & Future (17-19). The views expressed by Srividya Natarajan , a youthful dancer, may be controversial, but they deserve to be examined, and endorsed or countered, by others who care for the future of Bharatanatyam.

In the Book Shelf section, we offer reviews of two books on the musical genre known as Thumri (41-44), while several cassette recordings are examined in the companion Record Rack section (45-47). Dr. Arudra writes further on the Varnam in his series on the Bharatanatyam format (48-50). Elsewhere youll find A Guide To Prana written by Arudra again and notes on Awards To Artists from the pen of the Chief (TJ). The lead story in the News & Notes section is on a Bhakti Sangeet Samaroh.