Paullumi B Mukherjee “Child Prodigy Turns Educator”
[vc_row][vc_column][td_block_text_with_title custom_title=”DANCE” separator=””]Accomplished Kathak exponent, teacher, choreographer , educator and actress, “Shingar Mani” Paullumi B Mukheerjee, talks to VIJAY SHANKAR about her career over the years, starting as a child prodigy, winning the prestigious Menaka trophy at the Mumbai University competition, appearing as Devaki in serials like Ramanand Sagar’s Krishna and being the only disciple of the legendary Rama Devi Lachchu Maharaj and her charismatic performances both in India and abroad. much more in an exclusive interview with VIJAY SHANKER
How were you initiated to dance?
Dance has come naturally to me, I started very early at the age of four. My parents noticed my interest in dance. I was enrolled in a dance class. When I went there I was refused as I was barely four years. I started crying and that turned the thought of my mentor and she accepted me.
Did you realize you were learning Kathak?
My learning was in the Guru-shishya parampara, I shared a unique bond, with my teacher, who moulded me completely in her way of thinking and was my role model. I inculcated her love of Kathak, which became my passion and my aspiration too. Over the years I started enjoying and learning the complex and beautiful art of Kathak.
What fascinates you the most about Kathak?
Kathak is known for its footwork and rhythmic complexity but what draws the most is the quality of transforming you into a world of imagination and magic of varied expressions and characters, that takes you to a different world that you forget yourself when you play those characters.
How would you describe your learning process with the legendary Ramadevi Lachchu Maharaj?
During the formative years, it was imitation. Introspection, assimilation and performance. It was a natural process as my teacher would tell me to think about what I have learnt and then interpret it, and would correct me when necessary, In fact she showed the world through her eyes, the way to walk, talk or behave, the aesthetic quality of dance and life and how one could learn from nature which includes the typical characteristics of the animals, birds etc. In other words she developed my complete personality both as a person and as a dancer in a profound manner
Did you family support me?
My parents and my brother always supported me and today I have my well-wishers and friends who encourage me at all levels
Which role of yours is most important and why- daughter, mother, dancer, teacher, choreographer, actress?
In every role I play, be it on stage or off stage, it is essential to be an effective communicator and a bridge between legacy and the audience and do my duty with honesty and sincerity
When did you first face the camera?
My first serial was Ramanand Sagar’s Krishna in which I played the important role of Devaki. He was quite disciplined and I learnt a lot from him and was fortunate to act in Alif Laila, Dr Chandrparakash Dwivedi’s Chanakya, Aruna Raje’s Shadi Yaa. I have also worked in theatre with Raghubir Yadav, Vikram Gokhale, Illa Bhate, Tariq Yunus etc
Do you feel that classical dancers could become good actors?
Classical dance is not a pre-requisite to be a good actor but it definitely helps, The rigorous “riyaaz”(training), discipline and the ability to transform into different characters in split seconds, is all ingrained in to the training of classical dance. Classical dance is an asset and embellishes an artiste with poise and elegance.
Are you happy being a classical dancer?
Classical dance is a long process of learning and performing and is a continuous process of growth and development. There will be setbacks but If am happy as a dancer, I could definitely touch lives and enrich the rasikas (audience)
What disturbs you in life?
The aura of negativity that hinders all of us, the unspeakable cruelty and violence to human beings and animals and the destruction of nature and environment.
Tell me about your future aspirations or plans!
I am interested in academic research, having completed my double masters and cleared the UGC net. My mission is to promote, preserve and archive the dance legacy through publications, workshops and performances. On the other hand I am also collaborating with folk arts like lavni and inter-disciplinary arts and science. I am also looking forward to meaningful roles in interesting projects.[/td_block_text_with_title][/vc_column][/vc_row]