---
title: "Kuchipudi Recital at Nishagandhi Festival | Amrita Lahiri"
description: "Experience the grace of Kuchipudi with Amrita Lahiri. Featuring the powerful Shiva Tarangam and traditional repertoire performed at the Nishagandhi Festival."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/nishagandhi-festival-recital
last_updated: 2025-10-01
---

# Kuchipudi Recital at Nishagandhi Festival

Tribe Verified · Featured artist at Nishagandhi Festival 2025

By [Amrita Lahiri](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance) · Performs in Delhi NCR and travels across India · ₹55K Per Performance (up to 45 mins) (estimate)

Part of [Kuchipudi Dance Performances](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/gallery)

Performing at the Nishagandhi Dance Festival in Thiruvananthapuram was a moment of pure connection. This solo recital brought together the intensity of the Shiva Tarangam and the delicate expression of traditional Javalis.

## Photos and videos

- ![A close-up from my solo recital at the Nishagandhi Dance Festival. This performance of a romantic Javali allowed me to explore the subtle nuances of 'Shringara', or love.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4887a4a1-ac41-426e-a9bc-ed7e074276bd)
- ![A dynamic leap captured during my performance at the Nishagandhi festival. The energy and athleticism of Kuchipudi are on full display in moments like this.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f8d4e1e6-ba28-443d-bfc5-1c8214336d8a)
- ![This pose, capturing both strength and grace, is from the Shiva Tarangam I performed at Nishagandhi. It's a piece that pays homage to Lord Shiva through intricate footwork and powerful abhinaya.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/07e863d3-e995-4b21-9e60-ff2138d22bf3)
- [Video: A short clip from my performance at the Nishagandhi Dance Festival. You can hear the live chanting and percussion that drives the energy of the Shiva Tarangam.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/35e06280-cb31-4f07-a69a-bdbcd2e0fae8)
- [Video: From the grand entrance of the festival to the performance itself, this video captures the wonderful atmosphere of the Nishagandhi Dance Festival in Thiruvananthapuram.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9801cf20-b051-4198-bf79-98b51422c0db)
- ![The dramatic lighting at the Nishagandhi Auditorium helped create a powerful atmosphere. Here, a simple pose is amplified by the stark contrast of light and shadow.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cd2b7799-c8ef-4b98-9012-92e1ee9136b6)
- ![Here I am performing the Tarangam, dancing on the edge of a brass plate. This was part of my recital at the Nishagandhi festival, showcasing a unique and challenging aspect of Kuchipudi.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9b14bbb8-e2a4-4b6c-be4c-761952c07ffd)
- ![A moment of expressive storytelling, or 'abhinaya', from my Nishagandhi performance. The joy of the character comes alive through a simple smile and gesture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f5adf4cf-b44f-4425-aecb-fae6487faca3)
- ![A graceful, arched pose from my Kuchipudi recital. The rich blue silk costume, with its traditional gold border, is an integral part of the visual storytelling.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7001bd03-5afd-49d3-a32f-07fb1c3d97e3)
- ![The precision of hand gestures, or 'mudras', is fundamental to Indian classical dance. Each mudra has a specific meaning, helping to narrate the story.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/390cf06e-4bd7-41f3-b0c8-ea6f5881ca1b)
- [Video: This black and white video creates a timeless feel, focusing on the flow and form of the dance. It captures the sculptural quality of Kuchipudi movements.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6843154d-f3a5-467c-ab9e-4e2a57942408)
- ![A full-body pose showing the distinct lines and angles of Kuchipudi. My performance at Nishagandhi was a celebration of this classical form in its full glory.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d4d9cac7-5900-43ae-86ed-3f1df0b75cfa)
- ![Another moment from the recital, showcasing the traditional pleated costume that fans out beautifully with movement.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d2e0a2d4-4b03-4daf-986a-f4dc74df6139)
- ![The connection with the audience is everything. In this moment, I share the character's delight, breaking the fourth wall with a joyful expression.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2b801275-ae40-4912-a220-37acc3b42a48)
- ![A pose of reverence and offering. The intricate jewelry and headpiece, known as 'talai-saaman', are traditional elements of the Kuchipudi costume.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/652f74ac-76a7-4c08-80fa-1b791d0ccd2a)
- ![A gentle, expressive moment from a romantic piece. The artistry lies not just in the big movements, but in these subtle, heartfelt gestures.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/29711fa2-632d-4738-8767-1016d0dadc64)
- ![A wide shot showing the scale of the Nishagandhi stage. It is a humbling experience to perform in such a grand auditorium for an appreciative audience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c5759d27-a98e-42c8-a42e-7955eaf54b36)
- ![A silhouette created by dramatic backlighting. This photo highlights the form and posture of the dancer, creating a powerful, almost spiritual image.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/31c76456-3ef3-4aa5-9a97-17d3a0cde483)
- ![Bathed in blue light, this close-up captures a moment of storytelling. The lighting design is a crucial collaborator in setting the emotional tone of a piece.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/70400682-3da1-47e1-99bf-529b50b9d0bb)
- ![This is a physically demanding pose that requires immense strength and control. It showcases the athletic side of Kuchipudi dance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9b1b9962-4bb3-4db2-8c5c-6d3439751dcf)
- ![The flowing lines of the body and costume create a sense of grace and movement, even in a still photograph.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4a91279d-22d3-4377-a6db-cea5ea271958)
- ![A moment of serene grace. The arms form a beautiful frame around the face, drawing attention to the expressive potential of the upper body.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2cc87659-ce86-41b2-a2ea-7c36e17b589d)
- ![A classic Kuchipudi stance, with one leg raised and the body in a graceful tribhangi, or three-bend, posture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/32518d7e-e4cd-42a8-a50a-93563fa8da28)
- ![A black and white shot that emphasizes the sculptural quality of the pose and the intensity of the expression.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4c576336-2b67-4823-8424-fa60eb1d6cd8)
- ![A leap of joy. This photo captures the sheer exuberance and energy that dance can express.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/530812b1-bb33-431b-a1db-9d9bcf15278b)
- ![A seated pose that conveys a sense of playfulness and charm, characteristic of many Kuchipudi pieces.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5f484826-97de-44c6-8277-c76842826dfe)
- ![A moment of quiet contemplation during the performance. The contrast between dynamic movement and stillness is a key element of my recitals.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7c5e2b67-62d5-45b6-824a-dde2039b791f)
- ![This is another angle of a classic Kuchipudi pose, highlighting the control and balance required to hold such a position with grace.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a175aee2-be35-497e-ac06-adc163f169c2)
- ![A wide stance that shows the grounded yet fluid nature of the dance form. The arms are extended, as if embracing the space.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9db9e44e-b69b-40ec-8e5b-9bd3d8830553)
- ![A softer, more lyrical pose. Not all of Kuchipudi is fast-paced; it also has moments of gentle, flowing movement.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6df7c11c-2939-41d7-99b4-1e7adafd2c5a)
- ![A pose that reaches upwards, conveying a sense of aspiration or devotion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/60f0b186-2513-4141-a87d-80972215ff06)
- ![A seated pose from the performance, showing how stories can be told from different levels and perspectives on stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/af2e89f2-4ad6-49c8-98fd-e47605472cfb)
- ![Dancing on the brass plate, seen from the side. This angle shows the precision required to maintain balance while moving.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/72f05ae6-724a-4ea0-9f88-c53fde545512)
- ![Another view of the Tarangam, showing the focus and control needed for this intricate part of the performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/70e7c86a-4671-4ff2-958d-ca9b17545bf5)
- [Video: This clip showcases different poses and movements from my Nishagandhi recital, giving a glimpse into the variety within a single performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/38324c64-3e3e-4b6d-af0e-ef327c17d77f)

## About Nishagandhi Festival Recital

Performing at a venue as acoustically precise as the Nishagandhi Auditorium allows for a specific kind of dialogue with the audience. For this recital, we focused on the Shiva Tarangam, which requires total rhythmic alignment between the live percussion and the dancer to maintain balance on the brass plate.

The Nishagandhi Festival is a unique platform, not just because of its scale, but because of the deep appreciation for classical forms in Kerala. For this performance, I wanted to strip back the ornamentation and focus on the core elements of Kuchipudi: the rhythm (Nritta) and the emotive storytelling (Abhinaya).

We began with the Shiva Tarangam, a challenging piece that demands complete physical and mental presence. Balancing on the rim of a brass plate while keeping time with the Mridangam is a practice of total surrender. The piece pays homage to Lord Shiva, and the energy in the auditorium shifted as the percussion intensified, creating a bridge between the performer and the audience.

Following this, I chose a romantic Javali. While the Tarangam is about power and precision, the Javali is about subtlety—the turn of a wrist, the arch of an eyebrow, and the specific expression of longing. It is where I find the most freedom as a storyteller.

This recital was supported by a dedicated live orchestra, including Jasmin Kaur on Nattuvangam and Adarsh Nair on vocals. Having a live ensemble is essential for me; it allows for spontaneous improvisation. If the audience responds, the musicians and I can extend a phrase or deepen a gesture, making the performance breathe in real time. It is this exchange that makes every recital a singular event, never to be replicated exactly the same way again.

## About Amrita Lahiri

I'm Amrita. My life is rhythm, prayer, and a constant search for the stories that connect us. Whether I’m performing a traditional Shiva Tarangam on a festival stage or coaching students in my studio, I’m just trying to share that spark of magic.

[See all of Amrita Lahiri's services](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance)

## More from Kuchipudi Dance Performances by Amrita Lahiri

- [Featured](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/featured)
- [Ananta: The Unlimited](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/ananta-the-unlimited)
- [Kolkata Performances](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/kolkata-performances)
- [Mandala: A Journey in Music and Dance](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/mandala-a-journey-in-music-and-dance)
- [Call of the Flute: A Confluence of Arts](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/call-of-the-flute-a-confluence-of-arts)
- [Jugalbandi: Duets & Group Choreographies](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/jugalbandi-duets-group-choreographies)
- [The Art of Kuchipudi: Form, Expression & Practice](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/the-art-of-kuchipudi-form-expression-practice)
- [Event Announcements & Press](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/event-announcements-press)

## More services by Amrita Lahiri

- [Kuchipudi Workshops & Coaching](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/kuchipudi-workshops-coaching)
- [Choreography & Artistic Direction](https://mytribe.in/amrita.lahiri.dance/choreography-artistic-direction)

## Similar work from other experts

- [Kuchipudi Performances Showcasing Tradition and Energy](https://mytribe.in/kim-aham-school-of-dance/kuchipudi-dance-performances/featured) by Avijit Das · Kuchipudi Dance Performances · Performances at Whitefield studio & venues across India
- [Solo Bharatanatyam Recitals: Traditional Margam & Thematic Performances](https://mytribe.in/delhidancer/bharatanatyam-performances/solo-recitals-the-classical-repertoire) by Tanya Saxena · Bharatanatyam Performances · Performs across Delhi NCR and travels pan-India
- [Solo Bharatanatyam Recitals and Traditional Margam](https://mytribe.in/adithya.pv/bharatanatyam-performances/solo-recitals-the-classical-repertoire) by Adithya · Bharatanatyam Performances · Performs across Bengaluru & India
- [Solo Bharatanatyam Recitals: The Traditional Margam](https://mytribe.in/indirakadambi/bharatanatyam-performance-choreography/solo-recitals-the-art-of-margam) by Indira Kadambi · Bharatanatyam Performance & Choreography · Based in Jigani, Bengaluru; Travels across India for shows
- [Solo Bharatanatyam Recitals](https://mytribe.in/shreyasigopinath/dance-performances-productions/solo-bharatanatyam-recitals) by Shreyasi Gopinath · Dance Performances & Productions · Available for performances across Delhi NCR and India
- [Traditional Bharatanatyam Margam Recitals](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/bharatanatyam-dance-performances/margam-classical-repertoire) by Himanshu Srivastava · Bharatanatyam Dance Performances · Based in Delhi NCR; performs across India

## Book

To book Amrita Lahiri, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%20Amrita%2C%20I%20loved%20your%20performance%20at%20the%20Nishagandhi%20Festival.%20I'm%20interested%20in%20booking%20a%20Kuchipudi%20recital%20for%20an%20upcoming%20event.%20Are%20you%20available%3F)