Kalakshetra Padam: Manchi Dinam

Kshetrajna or Kshetrayya is often said to be the high priest of abhinaya padams in dance because of his beautifully worded philosophical content of poetry. He has inspired dancers since the 17th century and that he is relevant even today, speaks volumes about the works he has left behind.
The padam Manchi Dinam, as conceived and choreographed by Smt Rukmini Devi Arundale, is a masterpiece in controlled expression of the heroine's anguish at the apparent betrayal of her beloved SriKrishna - Muuva Gopala.
Why does he hide and peer at me, O friend? It must be an auspicious day today as he has come here on his own - let him approach in his royal manner.
O Sakhi, have I not placed everything I have at his disposal - is not even this body his very own? If I am perturbed and disturbed now, will they not laugh at and chide me for childishness? It is unbearable to even think of separation from my Lord, so please let him not think ill of me - after all, have I even mentioned the name of that other woman?

PADAM:
Raagam: Ananda Bhairavi
Taalam: Thisra Triputa
Composer: Kshetrajna
Choreography: Smt Rukmini Devi Arundale

Performed by: Guru Smt Swagata Sen Pillai & Kriti Kambiri

Kalakshetra Orchestra