The Momma Clan

Friday night was not just a performance; it was a profound spiritual journey led by a living legend. Attending “Nadamrutham – An Ode to Diksha” by the inimitable Dr. Lata Surendra at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) was an experience that left both my partner and me utterly spellbound, humbled, and deeply connected to the roots of our classical arts.

At 71, Dr. Surendra is more than a dancer; she is a vessel of tradition, and her Bharatanatyam was a testament to a lifetime dedicated to her craft.

The Two-Hour Triumph of the Soul

In an era where attention spans are measured in minutes, Dr. Surendra held the audience captive for a spectacular two-hour solo performance. What was truly breathtaking was the sheer stamina, precision, and emotional depth she brought to every mudra and every bhava. Her movements weren’t just technically perfect; they radiated a graceful, seasoned wisdom that only decades of practice can bestow.

Her performance of this ‘Ode to Diksha’ (a dedication to her guru) was the epitome of pure artistic devotion. There were moments of high energy followed by passages of serene, heart-wrenching expression. It wasn’t merely dance; it was a conversation with the divine, executed with an unshakeable inner rhythm.

Eloquence Beyond Movement

Interspersed between the challenging dance segments, Dr. Surendra offered eloquent, intimate snippets of reflection. Addressing the esteemed presence of Gurus and attendees from the classical arts fraternity, her words were delivered with a touching humility and grace.

The most poignant moment came with her direct, emotional ode to her own guru. It was a beautiful acknowledgment of the lineage, the sacrifices, and the profound, almost spiritual bond between a teacher and a student. This fusion of powerful physical art and sincere, verbal tribute created a rare and moving atmosphere that transcended the stage. We weren’t just watching a performance; we were witnessing a sacred act of gratitude.

NMACC: The Perfect Showcase for Our Culture

We must applaud NMACC for featuring and celebrating our classical culture with such reverence and grandeur. By providing a world-class platform for veteran artists like Dr. Lata Surendra, NMACC reinforces the importance of preserving and showcasing India’s rich artistic heritage. The venue itself, with its impeccable acoustics and stage design, felt like the perfect temple for this ode to grace.

To be blessed with such an experience, celebrating talent that defies age and artistry that touches the soul, was truly humbling. Thank you, NMACC, and thank you, Dr. Lata Surendra, for reminding us of the enduring beauty and power of our roots. We left the hall feeling richer in spirit, carrying the echoes of her mesmerizing performance.

A Special Note of Thanks

We owe a special debt of gratitude to Guru Aditi Yadav from Ved Institute of Performing Arts. It was her kindness and foresight that introduced us to Dr. Lata Surendra’s work and gave us the immense privilege of attending this phenomenal and deeply moving show. Thank you, Guru Aditi, for opening the door to such a powerful and inspiring experience. To be blessed, humbled, and part of this cultural milestone with my partner is something we will cherish forever.

Were you there? Share your favourite moment from Dr. Lata Surendra’s performance in the comments!