Dancer A Lakshmanahswamy goes the classical way

For dancer A Lakshmanahswamy, known as A Lakshman, Margazhi has been no different this time.
“Classical is the way to go when it comes to my solo performances,” he says, “I’ve chosen to do a margam recital this time.” He’s looking forward to performing at the Tapas dance festival that kickstarts from today. Lakshman usually commences his classical performances with an invocation, followed by the main piece through Varnam, and a detailed Ashtapathy, which is much-appreciated by his audiences.Padams/javalis and the culmination in a Thillana follow next.
“I’m deeply inspired by the classical dance form of Bharatanatyam,” states the dancer, whose favourite compositions are those that feature Lord Krishna, “It has a certain richness that’s complete with the many expressions that comes with it.” Born in Malaysia, he later made Chennai his base. Here, he came under the direct tutelage of his late guru K J Sarasa.
“She was the one who taught me dance and the method of imparting this art form to youngsters as well. I benefitted a lot due to my training under her. I’ve also had the opportunity to learn under Sudharani Raghupathy, Professor C V Chandrashekar and Abhinaya exponent Kalanidhi Narayanan. What I have learnt is what I impart through my institute for classical arts in the city,” he signs off.