Memories from beyond the border

The quarterly arts series of

Sudarshan Chakravorty

’s dance academy was a bit different this year. Sudarshan, the creator of the show, paid tribute to his parents by creating it around the art and culture of

Sylhet

, Bangladesh, where his family has its roots.
Ki Ta Re Ba
The dance-drama, Ki Ta Re Ba, conceptualised and choreographed by Sudarshan, evoked the urge to find one’s roots and origin. “This is a one-of-its-kind project. No matter how far we go, no matter what the geographical boundaries are, our hearts remain in Sylhet,” added the choreographer. The act also spoke about boundaries, a sense of homelessness and the culture that is left behind. “The biggest challenge was to create the bonding between eight dancers, three singers and two actors, that too in just seven days. The

production

was quite emotional and created a direct connect between the performers and audience,” he added. Koushik Das, one of the performers, said, “I have been with this dance academy for the past 12 years and have travelled a lot in the northeast, but creating Ki Ta Re Ba was a totally different experience.”

Ankita Duttagupta stole hearts with her emotional expressions throughout the act. She said, “I was personally unaware of Sylheti culture, but Sudarshan made me understand it properly.” Surojit Chatterjee, who was also a part of the production, said, “At first, I was a bit surprised. I was not sure what my role in the play would be. I am a musician, that’s all I do. But today, I am glad that I could be a part of it.”
A farewell song
The event was also about bidding farewell to the outgoing US Consul General, Craig Hall and his wife Meeryung. “Both Craig and Meeryung are lovers of art. They have been involved with culture and art since the time they first came to Kolkata. We will definitely miss them,” said Sudarshan. “We met Sudarshan three years back and since then we have always respected and admired the work that he has been doing. He will be a part of our
memories of Kolkata,” added Craig.

Meeryung said she can’t believe how time flew. “Seems like we came down just a few days back, but it’s already time to leave,” she said.

Guests Galore
Guests poured in to experience the production and everyone we spoke to was all praise for it. “I am delighted! I know what dance means to Sudarshan and involving his parents’ name in his work makes the initiative even more special,” said actress Arpita Chatterjee. Designer Abhishek Dutta was also spotted enjoying the show.

He said, “It is expected of Sudarshanda to deliver something great and outstanding. So I am not surprised. But then again, I must say, it was a beautiful experience for me as a spectator.” Bibhash Chakraborty, Harshvardhan Neotia, Nandita Palchoudhuri and others were
also present at the event.