Inspired by countless self-help books, I have started believing in facing my fears head on. Since I have always been apprehensive about classical art forms, this year's resolution was to familiarise myself with these forms.


Bharatanatyam dancer Alarmel Valli will perform at the annual Carnatic
music fest, Dakshinayan

So, I attended a few sessions of Hindustani Classical music and several classical dance performances. My initial foray had a pattern of sorts -- I was hooked in the beginning, squirmed a bit in the middle and grew impatient towards the end. However, after a few sessions, I began to enjoy it.

This week, there's a golden opportunity for you to embark on a musical journey as Nehru Centre is hosting Dakshinayan, a two-day annual Carnatic music festival.

In its eighth edition, it will feature popular names such as Lalgudi GJR Krishnan and Lalgudi Vijayalakshmi (violin duet) and TM Krishna (vocal) on Day One, while Day Two will include a Bharatanatyam performance by Alarmel Valli, as well as performances by Dr Umayalpuram K Sivaraman (mridangam ) and Aruna Sairam (vocal).

Till: March 30, 7 pm onwards
At: Nehru Centre Auditorium, Worli.
Call: 24964680
Tickets: Rs 250 and Rs 150