"Nadaswaram is a mangala vadhyam (auspicious instrument) dear" she
smiled. "Traditionally you must have seen them in south-indian marriages or street processions but they started out as divine instruments used in temple worship. There were times when people used to flock for nadaswaram concerts and these musicians were a celebrated lot. Today see what they have been reduced to" she lamented. Did a little reading on this endangered art form and came out understanding little more of them. I made a small vow to myself that the next time I come across such street artists, will spare them more than a few loose change.
1 comment:
I think the same is happening to stage dramas in regional languages. Folks from Madras may understand the passion with which people used to flock dramas of "Crazy" Mohan or SV Shekar and their troupes, especially during the Carnatic season during the 80s and 90s. Some incredible humour (a mix of slapstic, subtle, political, situational), great improvisations, timing, and entertainment. Couple that with some great carnatic performances, hot vadai and coffee.....ahh the glory days.
So many forms of art and entertainment are in the danger of disappearing.
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