Odissi

by Tulasi-Priya on Wednesday 22 August 2012

This is what I’ve been working on the past couple of three weeks. I’ve been out of the loop for years with regard to video shooting and editing, and my equipment and software is consumer-grade, not pro, but whatever talent I possess I put into this, and the grace of God was not in short supply either on this project. I’m pleased with the result.

Gangi is the eldest daughter (she has an elder brother, Vishvambar, who appears playing drum on this video, and a younger sister, Jamuna, also gorgeous) of a ridiculously talented family. Her mother’s ancestors are Italian, her father is from India. This video will serve as a sort of preview for her graduation dance recital, geared toward an audience who may not have a clue about classical Indian dance. The tradition of Odissi originates in the town of Puri, home of the famous Jagannatha temple, and my favorite place in all the world.

I didn’t want to do this project at first, because I tend to get obsessed and consumed and spend way too much time fussing over details. But when the chance to engage with this kind of beauty, devotion, dedication, and expertise comes unsought, I’d be a fool to say no. I’m so glad I did it, because I now feel as if I have a new friend, no less amiable than she is qualified. She’s just twenty-four, but cannot remember ever not dancing. A blessed life.

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{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }

Sarah W August 22, 2012 at 10:50 pm

Oh, Tulasi-Priya, it’s wonderful!

The elements go so well together—dance, voice, music. Fantastic!

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Tulasi-Priya August 22, 2012 at 11:27 pm

Thanks, Sarah. I really love this dance form, and want lots of people to get acquainted with it. I’m even thinking about taking dance classes myself!

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Sparks In Shadow August 23, 2012 at 12:11 am

Such beautiful work here … I love the way you put it together, and her dancing just makes me want to get out of my chair and dance around my living room. I enjoyed it, especially all that color in motion.

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Tulasi-Priya August 23, 2012 at 1:58 am

Go ahead and dance, Ré! I’ll join you on my side.

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Virginia Llorca August 23, 2012 at 12:44 am

Goose bumps. So well done. So beautiful. I feel so proud of you. Weird, from a stranger?

The dancer is exquisite.

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Tulasi-Priya August 23, 2012 at 1:59 am

»The dancer is exquisite.« Isn’t she though? Thanks for the kind words. I’m so lucky; I get to see this all the time.

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Jennine G. August 23, 2012 at 12:54 am

I always marvel at people’s ability to edit film. I have a friend who does drama, which means film editing, with my daughter’s youth group at church.

I have a friend who is from India and her husband is Italian! I am going to send her the link.

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Deb August 23, 2012 at 4:41 am

Wow, I’m so glad you did it too, Tulasi-Priya. It’s beautiful. I think I felt an actual lightness and joy watching it. And yes, I agree, the young woman is gorgeous – beyond the everyday definition.

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