Bhu Suktam

Concept and Choreography: Yamini Kalluri

Musical Arrangement: Yamini Kalluri & Rohith Jayaraman

This piece is dedicated to Mother Earth, drawing inspiration from a hymn in the Rig Veda. I first choreographed this during the pandemic as a gesture of both apology and gratitude to Mother Earth, for teaching me the profound lesson of humility and mindfulness—that I am but a tiny part of her vast creation, and must never take her for granted. The inspiration for this choreography comes from the iconic film Sapthapadi, where the heroine, a Kuchipudi dancer (played by Sabitha Bhamidipati), performs a Vedic chant in a temple. The impact of that scene, which left an indelible mark on me as a child, moved me to create a piece that could reflect the same grandeur and reverence. As dancers, we are always connected to the earth; we begin and end our practice by paying homage to Bhu Devi. This sacred act of gratitude inspired me to create this work.

Yamini's Interpretation:
The first two verses are drawn from the Natya Shastra, and they read:

"Oh Mother Earth, manifested by Vishnu’s divine power, you are vibrantly adorned with innumerable colors beyond my imagination. Just when I think you are simply plain mud, you astonish me with the hidden gems in your womb. You, who are full of mysteries and abundance, I bow before your magnanimity."

"Once again, you amaze me with your infinite wonders. The oceans are your flowing robes, and the mountains your breasts. As I dance, I realize I am pounding on you, causing harm through my selfish actions. For all this damage, I humbly beg your pardon."

This sincere invocation is followed by the chanting of the hymn Bhoo Suktam. My approach to the rhythm is abstract, yet grounded by a subtle metronome, reflecting the fluidity of the piece.

"Adithi, you are not just the soil beneath my feet or the skies above, but also the vast space in the heavens that I cannot comprehend. The fire in your belly both consumes and nurtures, providing us with sustenance. The sun illuminates you, and the divine sound vibrations of creation echo within you. With each sunrise, you are renewed, and the sun’s movement creates a radiant firmament above you. If I have harmed you through my wrongful actions, I will rekindle you through sacred fire rituals. What was scattered in chaos, the Devatas have always gathered to restore balance. May the ghee of this offering bring clarity to my mind, and may the scattered flames come together in a harmonious yagna. Let Brihaspati, the great sage, invoke Bhu Devi to dance in joy as we restore balance to the world."