Artists, poets, and poetry lovers in the Sultanate of Oman will pay tribute to the great Indian poet Mahakavi Kumaranashan on his 100th death anniversary on October 25 at Al Falaj Hotel.
Kumaranashan, who inspired a generation and whose legacy continues to resonate today, is one of Kerala's most celebrated poets.
As a member of the famous triumvirate of Malayalam poets alongside Vallathol Narayana Menon and Ulloor S Parameswara Iyer, Kumaranashan was given the title 'Mahakavi' (meaning 'great poet') by Madras University in 1922. The suffix 'Ashan,' meaning 'scholar' or 'teacher,' reflects his dual role as a poet, philosopher, and social reformer of his time.
The group 'Kavithakoottam Muscat,' under the banner of NHP Events and Middle East Power Safety and Business LLC, will bring to life five characters from his poems such as Karuna, Chandalabhikshuki, and Nalini. These characters will be portrayed through five classical dance forms of Kerala: Kathakali, Bharatnatyam, Kerala Natanam, Mohiniyattam, and Ottenthullal.
"This is an attempt to showcase the great Indian poet of our time, who revolutionised poetry earlier this century. He shifted poetry from the metaphysical to the lyrical, encouraging his contemporaries to express themselves poetically. What sets his poetry apart is its dedication to society through moral and spiritual content, poetic depth, and dramatic context. We believe this is a fitting tribute to the great poet," Gokuldas, Director, and Sujith Thiruvonam, the organiser, told the Observer.
The event, titled 'Keleeravam,' is divided into segments such as Poomari (Floral Showers), which is an audio-visual representation of life and nature. It delves into the complexities of the human mind by intertwining Malayalam poetry and literature. The narrative revolves around a large tree with many branches and flowers, situated between two imaginary lands. People from both lands claim the tree, which provides shade to both sides impartially. The narrative later shows the close connection between nature and humanity and how human emotions impact the natural world.
The second segment, titled Sree Bhoovilasthira, is an initiative by a socially conscious expatriate community to introduce the characters and life situations from the poet's perspective to the new generation while maintaining the core values of poetry through a stunning display of dance forms.
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