Revival of 'Nadagam, Nurthi and Nathya Gee' in France

The revival of varying aspects of a culture, tradition or custom aid the process of preserving such valuable factors of society, that would otherwise be lost. It was with this in mind that legendary thespian Somalatha Subasinghe who certainly needs no introduction to Sri Lankan audiences across the globe, took the initiative in the French capital to organise a presentation of famous songs from renowned dramatic productions that have adorned the stages of Sri Lanka for a very distinct period in Sri Lankan history.

When exploring the origins of theatre in Sri Lanka, it is the 'ritual theatres' that could be indentified as one of the oldest forms, having evolved over time and highlighting the relationships between the human and spiritual worlds. The prominent 'Sokari', 'Kolam' and 'Nadagam' forms of theatrical creations have been influenced by various inspirational factors. "Sokari' being a devotional offering to goddess Pathini, is known as one of the most theatrically accomplished forms of folk presentations with special emphasis on its circular movements in terms of rhythmic steps. 'Kolam' and the usage of traditional masks are known for the three main stories depicted thereby, notably the 'Sandakinduru Kathava', 'Maname Kathava' and 'Gam Kathava', 'Nadagam' could be considered as the next stage in this process of evolution with influence here from a South Indian Street Theatre form called 'Nathukuttu' which comprised feisty dialogues and songs as the form of vocal expression. Thereafter the advent of 'Nurthi' a form that developed with North Indian influence, particularly the Parsi theatre, brought to the stage a more modernistic blend that was rapidly domesticated to cater to local tastes. Maestros of the calibre of C. Don Bastian, the first Nurthi writer, as well as John De Silva and Charles Dias were among those who made invaluable efforts to thus infuse a sense of patriotism among other aspects through their works.

It was in this spirit of valuing the rich heritage possessed by a country like Sri Lanka that efforts had been made to bring to the fore twenty melodies drawn from a plethora of masterpieces with dramatization of several of them included.

Commencing the presentation with an opening song from 'Maname', one of the lasting contribution made by Prof. Ediriweera Sarachchandra, to the world of drama, the evening's presentation brought to the stage the 'creme de la creme' of Sinhala thespian ventures. One of the most interesting aspects of the songs were that they told a story of their own, from the age old 'Shantha John Veediye Kade' about the much visited St. Johns Market in Pettah with a variety of merchandise for sale to the 'Moratuwe Gamana' composed in the intermission of the play 'Puran Appu Rajawei', they succeeded in providing a journey into a bygone era, which would be long forgotten if not for musical attributes of this nature.

Of similar interest were the likes of 'Wasana Dinekki" from John De Silva's 'Sirisangabo' , 'Uthama Wan' from 'Kalagola' which was hugely popular among the audience for the dramatic depiction of 'Kalagola' and 'Diktala' going to visit her parents and the tragedy he faced on the way and 'Sita Ma Siriya' about 'Rama's' lamentation over the loss of his wife following her kidnapping by 'Ravana'.

'Mage Mandri Devi' where 'Vessantara' consoles his wife and 'Bo Dhos Kiya' also from 'Vessantara' were truly appreciated for the dramatization that really infused a great degree of interest.

Brining together Sri Lankans from differing vocations, who are resident in Paris, the group of twenty singers and musicians made a lasting contribution that was much appreciated and would undoubtedly reinforce in the hearts and minds of Sri Lankans in Paris and Parisians in general, the rich heritage possessed by Sri Lanka and ensure the understanding of the need for preserving such attributes for generations to come.

The 'Nadagam, Nurthi and Nathya Geetha' presented on the 25 April 2010 in Paris resulted in an evening of sheer enthusiasm on the part of the singers and musicians and true appreciation from the audience.

It could be clearly noted that the need for cultural diversity and the understanding thereof are much needed aspects of a vibrant society. With a cultural heritage spanning several centuries, Sri Lanka has produced many talented and versatile thespians in the different forms of theatre and those of the calibre of Somalatha Subasinghe and the worthy contributions they have made and continue to make, would ensure the preservation and contribution of a much loved and much needed aspect of society that ensures its pluralistic nature and provides the rejuvenation this sphere requires.