‘Bhakthamrutham’ to bring nine paths of devotion to life in Hyderabad
HYDERABAD: The timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavatam will come alive on stage in the dance production ‘Bhakthamrutham’ – The Nectar of Devotion. Audiences can experience the nine classical paths of devotion, or Nava Vidha Bhakti, as ancient wisdom unfolds in vibrant movement and storytelling.
The production is scheduled to take place at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Auditorium in Hyderabad on Saturday (November 8). Each of the nine paths of devotion is shown through well-known stories and characters from Hindu mythology.
Nine episodes, Nine forms of devotion
With choreography by Dr. Sujaritha and Supraja Sundara Rajan, and a concept envisioned by S. Janakavalli, the production delves into the teachings of Prahlada Maharaja from the Srimad Bhagavatam. It illuminates how every shade of devotion becomes a path to divine union.
The journey through the nine forms of bhakti begins with Sravanam, the art of listening, brought alive by the tale of Kalinga Nartana Krishna, where the Lord’s triumphant dance after subduing the serpent enchants and purifies the soul. Next is Kirtanam, singing his glories, embodied by the Gopikas, whose heartfelt songs of longing for Krishna become music’s purest surrender. The third path, Smaranam, or constant remembrance, is exemplified by Prahlada Maharaja, whose steadfast devotion to Lord Narayana, even in the face of adversity, serves as a beacon of unwavering faith.
Further, Pada-sevanam, the fourth expression, is devotion through service at the Lord’s feet, beautifully symbolized by Goddess Laksmi, ever engaged in humble service to Lord Visnu. Arcanam follows, where King Prthu’s grand rituals and selfless offerings become acts of worship. Vandanam, the heartfelt offering of prayers, finds its soul in Akrura, who bows before Krishna in Mathura, his gratitude flowing in tears and supplication. Dasyam, the path of devoted service, is brought to life by Hanuman, whose every breath and deed echo with strength, humility, and unwavering faith in Lord Rama.
Sakhyam, the eighth form, celebrates divine friendship through Arjuna, whose deep bond with Krishna on the battlefield of Kuruksetra embodies trust and spiritual camaraderie. The journey reaches its zenith with Atma-nivedanam, the ultimate act of self-surrender, as King Bali Chakravarti offers his wealth, his kingdom, and his very being to Lord Vamana. Through these nine luminous episodes, the production reveals how every path of devotion, though unique, ultimately leads to the same sacred truth: the union of the devotee and the Lord through love.
Narrative framework
Primarily, story adopts Bhagavatam’s own frame, with Suka Muni and King Pariksit as narrators, remaining faithful to the original dialogue in which Suka reveals the essence of devotion to Pariksit.
Performed in both Telugu and Sanskrit, the production preserves the classical spirit of its origins while making deep spiritual ideas accessible and resonant. Through vivid storytelling and expressive dance, the message comes alive for all.
The production is a contemporary effort to preserve and present ancient wisdom through classical arts. It offers audiences both spiritual insight and aesthetic experience. “Join us for an evening where devotion finds its voice in rhythm and ancient wisdom breathes again through the poetry of movement,” as described in the BookMyShow app. For booking information and performance schedule details, visit the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Auditorium in Hyderabad or on the BookMyShow app.
