Mandala: A Minimalist Journey in Kuchipudi and Music
A collaboration with vocalist Chandana Bala Kalyan, directed by Leela Samson. We explore the spiritual journey of seeking, stripping away the spectacle to find the raw connection between dance and voice.
This photo captures the essence of 'Mandala', a deep artistic dialogue between my dance and Chandana Bala Kalyan's voice. It was an honor to create this piece under the direction of Leela Samson.
A moment from 'Mandala' under a single spotlight. The stark, simple lighting, designed by Gyandev Singh, was essential to the minimalist and introspective mood of the production.
An excerpt from 'Mandala' set to the bhajan 'Jamuna Kinare Mora Gaon'. This piece explores the theme of 'Shringara' or love, the first circle of our journey in this production.
Performing 'Mandala' with Chandana. Our connection on stage is not just as two artists, but as two storytellers sharing a single narrative through our different mediums.
"Where are you searching for me? I am within you!" This line from the poet Kabir is at the heart of 'Mandala'. Here, in a moment of stillness, the dance seeks to express that inner divinity.
Taking a bow with Chandana after a performance of 'Mandala' at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. It is always a joy to share our art and feel the audience's response.
A performance shot from 'Mandala'. The simple costumes and bare stage put the focus entirely on the music and the movement, creating a very raw and honest experience.
Another perspective on 'Mandala', showing the interplay between light, shadow, and the artists. The red of Chandana's saree is a vibrant counterpoint to my simple white costume.
This moment from 'Mandala' is from the section on 'Viraha' or separation. The dance expresses the pain and longing described in the poetry.
A wider view of the stage during 'Mandala'. The audience is drawn into this intimate space we create, becoming part of the collective experience.
About Mandala: A Journey in Music and Dance
This production is intentionally minimalist. We strip away the heavy sets and traditional ornamentation to focus entirely on the dialogue between movement and voice. It requires an intimate, quiet stage space. The 'Mandala' does not work in a loud banquet hall; it needs an auditorium or a space where the poetry of Kabir and Meera Bai can actually be heard.
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.
Amrita Lahiri
I’m Amrita. 'Mandala' is one of the projects closest to my heart. Working with Leela Samson’s direction and Chandana’s voice has taught me how much can be said when you simply stop and listen to the music.
Looking for a different kind of performance?
Explore other ways we can bring movement and storytelling to your event.
More from Kuchipudi Dance Performances by Amrita Lahiri
More services by Amrita Lahiri