| THE STUDY OF COMPOSITIONAL AND CHOREOGRAPHIC LEGACY OF NĀṬYĀCĀRYA H.R. KESHAVA MURTHY |
| This paper examines the compositional and choreographic legacy of Nāṭyācārya H.R. Keshava Murthy
(HRK), a distinguished Bharatanāṭyam exponent whose innovative productions have left a lasting
impression on Karnāṭaka’s cultural heritage. With a repertoire of over thirty Nṛtya Rūpaka-s covering
historical, mythological, and social themes, HRK’s work is distinguished by his ability to bring classical
texts to life through dance, rhythm, and stagecraft. He has also composed a wide range of musical pieces
for Bharatanāṭyam, including JatiSvaram-s, Varṇam-s, Tillāna-s, and thematic compositions. His
choreographies, such as Mēgha Sandēśa, Pañcavaṭi, Sītārāma Kalyāṇa, Śrī Kṛṣṇa Tulābhāra, and Saṅgōḷḷi
Rāyaṇṇa, reveal his sensitivity to literature and his skill in transforming textual material into compelling
stage productions and exemplify a deep understanding of narrative, aesthetics, and structure. These
productions have not only entertained audiences but also educated and inspired dancers, helping sustain
and renew Karnāṭaka’s Bharatanāṭyam tradition.
The primary objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of his contributions and to
analyze his choreographic style through the lens of Caturvidha Abhinaya. Focusing especially on Āṅgika
(movement and gesture), Vācika (music and verbal expression), and Āhārya (costume and visual
elements). The paper also highlights the specific innovations in technique and presentation found in a few
select productions. A descriptive and analytical methodology is adopted through the study of archival video
footage, personal interviews with his students and review of documentary materials.
The findings highlight HRK’s enduring legacy and the relevance of his artistic vision and uniqueness in
each of the dance drama and how his works continues to serve as a valuable reference for performers and
scholars, especially through his lesser known yet unique compositions that offer rich possibilities for
performance and study. One can also observe the wide range of productions he created across diverse
themes an achievement that reflects a lifetime of consistent artistic dedication. His dance dramas reveal
numerous special features that enhance effectiveness, including creative innovations in Āṅgika ,Vācika,
and Āhārya, and his attention to even the smallest choreographic and theatrical details. This research
contributes to preserving and promoting the work of one of Karnāṭaka’s most prolific and visionary dance
artist |
| Author: Ms Lasya Priya Ravishankar
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Submitted on : 16-Sep-2025
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Arts : India/Classical Dance/Bharathanatyam |
| Journal ID : 5028-551-7124
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