Pushpanjali
An invocatory piece where the dancer offers flowers and seeks the blessings of Lord Nataraja, the Guru, the musicians, and the audience. It is primarily nritta based, with small portions of simple abhinaya in which the dancer can exercise more nuanced emotion with the depiction of small stories.
Pushpanjali’ is a divine offering of flowers which meant to invoke the God, the guru, the orchestra, and the audience for their blessings before starting the performance. The hymn or Slokam in the pushpanjali praises the elephant headed Ganesha, the god for new beginnings and remover of obstacles. It will contain only swara syllables along with series of Solkattu jathis. It is a combination attractive raga phrases, suitable mukthayi koorpu-s (arrangement) and brings attraction to composition to invoke the god. The raga-s used here are Gambheera Naata, Salaga Bharavi, and Lalitha etc. Tala-s used are in wide range such as 35 Tala-s, with Jathi and Gathi bhedas.
Ragas
In Kuchipudi, Pushpanjali songs can be set in various ragas depending on the composition and the mood intended by the choreographer. However, some ragas are more commonly used for Pushpanjali due to their auspicious and serene nature. Here are a few ragas that are often used for Pushpanjali:
- Nata: This raga is commonly used in Pushpanjali due to its vibrant and auspicious nature. It is a traditional choice for opening performances.
- Hamsadhwani: Known for its simplicity and auspiciousness, Hamsadhwani is another popular choice for Pushpanjali. Its bright and pleasing sound makes it ideal for invocatory pieces.
- Mohana: Mohana is a pentatonic raga that is often used in compositions that are meant to be joyful and auspicious. It is a common choice for Pushpanjali in various classical dance forms.
- Shankarabharanam: This raga is one of the most important and versatile ragas in Carnatic music, often used for auspicious and grand compositions. It is occasionally used for Pushpanjali as well.
The choice of raga for Pushpanjali may vary based on the dancer, the choreographer, and the specific context of the performance. The selected raga is intended to set a serene and respectful tone, suitable for the invocation and salutation aspects of Pushpanjali.
Talam
In Kuchipudi, the Pushpanjali is often set to a specific tala (rhythmic cycle) that complements the raga and the overall mood of the piece. Common talas used for Pushpanjali include:
Adi Tala: Adi Tala, an 8-beat cycle, is one of the most frequently used talas in Carnatic music and dance. Its straightforward structure makes it a popular choice for Pushpanjali, allowing for clear and precise footwork and movements.
Rupaka Tala: Rupaka Tala is a 3-beat cycle. Its distinctive rhythmic pattern provides a different rhythmic texture that can be very effective for the Pushpanjali.
Misra Chapu Tala: This 7-beat cycle provides a unique and slightly more complex rhythmic structure. It can add an interesting layer of rhythm to the Pushpanjali, making it engaging for both the dancer and the audience.
Khanda Chapu Tala: This 5-beat cycle offers another rhythmic variation for Pushpanjali. Its asymmetrical pattern can highlight the dancer’s technical skill and versatility.
While these are common choices, the specific tala for a Pushpanjali can vary based on the composition and the choreographer’s artistic vision. The chosen tala is intended to create a harmonious blend of rhythm and melody, setting the stage for the dance performance.
Lyrics
The lyrics for Pushpanjali in Kuchipudi can vary, as different compositions may be used based on the choreographer's preferences, the specific performance, and the deity being invoked. However, a common structure includes verses that offer salutations to the divine, the guru, and the audience. Here's a general example of the type of lyrics you might find in a Pushpanjali for Kuchipudi:
plaintextShree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Shree Vighnarajam Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Gajavadana Ganapati Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Natajana Pala Bhaje Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste Vinayaka Namo Namaste
Explanation:
- Invocation of Deities: The lyrics typically start with an invocation to Lord Ganesha (Vighnaraja), the remover of obstacles, which is common in many classical Indian performances.
- Salutation to the Guru: Following the deity, there may be salutations to the guru (teacher), acknowledging their guidance and wisdom.
- Salutation to the Audience: Finally, the lyrics may include a general salutation to the audience, inviting them to witness and bless the performance.
The structure and content of Pushpanjali lyrics can vary, and dancers or choreographers may customize them based on the theme, occasion, or personal devotion.
Pushpanjali is a traditional dance piece often used as an invocatory item in classical Indian dance forms, including Kuchipudi. In this context, it serves as a salutation to the gods, the guru (teacher), and the audience.
Kuchipudi is a classical Indian dance form originating from Andhra Pradesh, known for its graceful movements and strong narrative/dramatic elements. Mohana Raga is a melodic framework (raga) in Carnatic music, characterized by a pleasing and auspicious tone.
When a Pushpanjali is performed in Mohana Raga, it typically includes the following elements:
- Introduction and Invocation: The dancer begins with a salutation, offering flowers to the deities, seeking their blessings for a successful performance.
- Rhythmic Patterns: The performance often includes intricate footwork and hand gestures (mudras) that align with the beats and rhythm (tala) set for the piece.
- Expressive Movements: The dancer uses a combination of graceful movements and facial expressions (abhinaya) to convey reverence and devotion.
- Musical Accompaniment: The music in Mohana Raga, with its joyful and serene mood, enhances the spiritual and uplifting atmosphere of the Pushpanjali.
This combination of dance, music, and expression creates a captivating and respectful opening to a Kuchipudi performance.
The lyrics for a Pushpanjali in Kuchipudi dance set to Mohana Raga may vary, as different compositions can be used for the same dance piece. However, a common structure involves invoking deities and offering respects to the audience and the guru. Here is an example of what the lyrics might look like:
Ananda Narthana Ganapathi Vandanaam Ananda Narthana Ganapathi Vandanaam Sadguru Charanam Smarami Smarami Sadguru Charanam Smarami Smarami Shree Vighneshwara Pahi Shree Vighneshwara Pahi Shree Vighneshwara Pahi Shree Vighneshwara Pahi Jaya Janaki Ramana Jaya Janaki Ramana Jaya Janaki Ramana Jaya Janaki Ramana Bhavaye Bhavaye Bhavaye Bhavaye Bhavaye Bhavaye
- "Ananda Narthana Ganapathi Vandanaam": Salutations to Lord Ganesha, who delights in dance.
- "Sadguru Charanam Smarami Smarami": I remember and revere the feet of my noble guru.
- "Shree Vighneshwara Pahi": O Lord of obstacles, protect us.
- "Jaya Janaki Ramana": Victory to Lord Rama, the consort of Janaki (Sita).
These lyrics may be set to the Mohana Raga, which has a joyous and uplifting mood, fitting for the invocation and salutation theme of Pushpanjali.
Different choreographers and teachers might have their own versions of Pushpanjali lyrics, so the specific words can vary.
Youtube Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7XO6YYYpYk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQBOtW9wq5A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWRdbmiLdhs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GT2cpPjyd8s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sd5PA-_x__A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URm_bl_iouQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12jfjyzYT0o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi1iV09a-BE
Websites:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pushpanjali
http://yuvabharati.org/home/pushpanjali_archives.php
https://www.thestatesman.com/supplements/marquee/a-grand-kuchipudi-performance-in-california-1503306364.html
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