Muscat to host grand tribute to Raja Ravi Varma
The Malayalam version will premiere on August 22, followed by the Hindi rendition, 'Bolthi Tasveerem', with multilingual subtitles, on August 23. Rehearsals are in full swing for this unique theatrical celebration.
The programme brings to life the story and works of Raja Ravi Varma, who was born in the Kilimanoor Palace near Thiruvananthapuram in the 19th century. Famed for blending Western techniques with Indian themes, Ravi Varma revolutionised Indian art with his lifelike oil paintings of mythological and royal figures.
In this innovative format, characters from his iconic paintings take the stage, drawing viewers into the emotional and cultural depth of his artworks. The production offers a rich narrative journey through the painter's tumultuous life, using light, sound and dramatic visuals to convey the timeless beauty and struggles behind his masterpieces.
The programme is produced by Bhavalaya, conceptualised by Dr J Retnakumar, and presented by Global Events. Directed by acclaimed stage artiste, director and choreographer Sunil Kumar Krishnan Nair, the show incorporates 71 carefully curated scenes. These include well-known works like Galaxy of Musicians, Hamsa Damayanti and Shakuntala, with musical interludes composed by Ronnie Raphael and background scores by Rama Varma Thampuran, a descendant of the Kilimanoor royal lineage.
As part of the tribute, a painting competition inspired by Ravi Varma's works will be held in early August for both citizens and residents of Oman.
Over 120 performers and 100 backstage crew members from Muscat will bring this epic to life, joined by Indian film star Moksha.
Speaking to the Observer, director Sunil Kumar Krishnan Nair shared, 'Through this audio-visual journey, we aim to introduce Raja Ravi Varma's genius to a new generation, ensuring that his legacy lives on not just as paintings, but as living, breathing stories.'
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