Mandala: A Minimalist Journey in Kuchipudi and Music

The Concept: A Conversation in Movement

'Mandala' was born from a desire to return to the essence of performance. Directed by the legendary Leela Samson, this collaboration with vocalist Chandana Bala Kalyan moves away from the elaborate costumes and busy stage backdrops often associated with Kuchipudi. Instead, we rely on the raw power of sound and gesture. We explore the spiritual journey of seeking, moving from love and separation to disillusionment and finally, dissolution, using the poetry of saints like Kabir and Meera Bai.

Technical Requirements

Because the production is designed to be quiet and introspective, the technical needs are specific. We rely on careful lighting design—often by Gyandev Singh—to create pockets of focus rather than a flood of stage light.

• Audience: This performance thrives in venues where the audience is close enough to witness the nuances of expression and hear the unamplified resonance of the music.
• Stage: A clean, wooden surface is mandatory. Given the minimalist nature, the stage must be free of competing visual distractions.
• Collaboration: The interplay between Chandana’s voice and my movement is fluid. We do not work to a rigid, fixed timing; rather, we react to each other in real-time, making every show slightly different.

Why Book This Production?

'Mandala' is not a standard dance item for a high-energy event. It is a piece for arts festivals, private gatherings, or corporate events where the host wants to offer a moment of stillness and reflection. It has traveled to venues like the Serendipity Arts Festival in Goa and the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, evolving with every city we visit. If you are looking for a performance that invites the audience to pause, listen, and think, this is the production for you.