• Naresh Sohal
  • Tandava Nritya (Dance of Destruction and Re-creation) (1984)

  • Novello & Co Ltd (World)
  • 3(3pic)3(ca)3(bcl)3/4331/timp.3perc/hp/str
  • 15 min

Programme Note

Naresh Sohal: Tandava Nritya
(Dance of Destruction and Re-Creation)

Tandava Nritya is a metaphorical piece. It represents the destruction and recreation of the Universe. In Hindu mythology, this process is enacted by Lord Shiva by his performance of Tandava dance.

The piece is a portrayal of this process in the form of a symbolic story.

Imagine Lord Shiva seated in deep meditation at Kailash Mountain (Himalayas) in snow. Suddenly he begins to perceive ascendance of Evil over Good. He opens his Third eyes - performs Tandava Nritya - the act of destruction. And when it is over, the process of re-creation begins.

Tandava Nritya was commissioned by the British Council for the London Symphony Orchestra Tour of India in 1984 - which, unfortunately did not take place. The piece was first performed by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, conducted by David Davies.

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