The Grand Finale
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With the procession having reached its destination and the musicians refreshed,
it is time for a magnificently choreographed finale.
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“It’s the finale. It’s the last impression. A bad dessert can ruin the meal!” Anne McManus
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Fame
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Less than an hour’s journey from Thrissur is the Kalamandalam, Kerala’s school of performing arts.
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On our tour of the campus, we join up with a party of very English Girl Guides.
It seems a somewhat surreal juxtaposition.
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Temple To The Arts
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During the monsoon rains I visit a temple dedicated to the performing arts.
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The Rhythm Of Kalam
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The sun has set.
With the dying of the light, Kalampattu begins.
The drums start pulsing their hypnotic rhythms.
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Song, dance and frenzy conjure up dark powers.
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Suddenly, my sensibilities are repulsed by what is enacted.
I feel as shocked as any Victorian puritan.
I put away my camera.
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Chicken may be gone from my menu for some time…
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Fevered Forms
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Fever: my pores weep.
Gentle staff, they comfort me.
I blow hot and cold.
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Shapes form, wax then wane.
Thoughts trapped in endless haiku.
Kind hands wipe my brow.
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Rigor and pain melt.
Mind at last released from verse.
Shiva’s dance transformed.
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Neither Use Nor Ornament 