RUKIMINI DEVI ARUNDALE BY VR DEVIKA.

 VR Devika’s ‘Rukmini Devi Arundale’ turns out to be a well-researched biography of the outstanding personality Rukmini Devi Arundale. The plot of the story is not only about the changing image of this character in original Indian classic dance, but it also tells us the story of her dedication and passion towards the revival and preservation of the culture. 

Unpretentious as it is, the biography has a masterful edifice of narrative with the main focus starting with the personal reminiscence Of Rukmini Devi with the arts. Perfectly, her arduous growth is portrayed here with the distinguished masters and from a raw beginner to an eminent doyenne of Bharatanatyam. Interestingly, her professional and personal timeline is also richly interwoven and it is possible to see how she was at once a trailblazer and a guardian of the purest principles of Indian classical dance. 

 

Her writing style is coherent and somehow confrontational in terms of describing Rukmini Devi’s impact in the art world. There is a worthy description of the birth of Kalakshetra, the premier centre for the dissemination of the art of Bharatanatyam. In this postcolonial perspective, the author further investigates Rukmini Devi’s obsession with the essence and the purity of arts and highlighted her strictly disciplined impartation method and focus on Indian classical looks.

 

Rukmini Devi's visionary integration of traditional handloom and indigenous craftsmanship into her artistic endeavors is another focal point of this biography. Her sartorial choices are often accessorized with handwoven textiles where she tries to continuously promote and restore native skills. This is a rather multifaceted revivalist approach which she managed to record the fact that her garments and artwork originated in culture.

Overall, VR Devika’s monograph is an exemplary fusion of biographical storytelling and cultural critique. It serves as both a tribute to Rukmini Devi’s monumental contributions and a clarion call to recognize the richness of Indian cultural heritage. This book is indispensable for scholars and enthusiasts of Indian classical arts, offering a comprehensive understanding of Rukmini Devi’s enduring legacy.