Bharatanatyam Performances and Thematic Dance
From traditional solo recitals to conceptual group productions, my work explores the intersection of classical Indian dance, literature, and contemporary themes.
This image is from a photo story titled 'The Creation of a Goddess'. It explores the concept of 'Shakti' or divine feminine strength, visually representing the many arms of Maa Durga, each a symbol of her power and grace in my Bharatanatyam practice.
A moment of synchronized energy from my group production 'Ikshana'. The dramatic lighting and precise formations capture the urgency of our performance, which uses Bharatanatyam to explore the narrative of climate change.
A powerful moment of 'abhinaya' or expression from my solo production, 'Pehchaan'. In this piece, I explore the complex relationship between my identity as an individual and the timeless characters I portray on stage through classical dance.
This is a glimpse from the global music album "Sounds of Kumbha," a collaboration where I interpreted the spiritual music through Bharatanatyam. The misty morning setting by the ghats added a unique, ethereal quality to the performance.
For me, dance is a path of inquiry, much like the one in Robert Frost's poem. This portrait, taken in a quiet wood, reflects the introspective journey of being a classical dancer and choosing a life dedicated to art.
This video shows the journey from the dance studio to the stage. It contrasts the raw energy of rehearsal with the polished finality of a performance, revealing the process of transforming hours of practice into a few moments of art.
A moment from 'Les Flutes Enchantes,' an Indo-French collaboration where I danced to Debussy's 'Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun'. This experimental work was a fascinating dialogue between Bharatanatyam and Western classical music and dance history.
About this collection
You will notice that my work spans from the traditional to the experimental. Whether it is a solo piece exploring classic Abhinaya or a group production on climate change, I aim to keep the storytelling at the forefront. As you browse these images, consider the scale of your event, as I adapt my choreography and ensemble size to fit everything from intimate cultural baithaks to large-scale festival stages.
I view Bharatanatyam as a living dialogue, connecting history, literature, and contemporary social questions through movement. My repertoire is broad, encompassing the traditional Margam—the classic sequence of Alarippu, Jathiswaram, and Thillana—as well as thematic productions that explore identity or global issues like the climate crisis. Every show begins with research, meaning the music, costume, and choreography are tied to a specific concept rather than just set steps.
I perform as a solo artist for intimate gatherings, relying on high-fidelity recorded tracks, or with a four-piece live orchestra for grand recitals where musical improvisation takes center stage. If you are looking for a larger impact, my group productions feature a five-dancer ensemble and synchronized audio, designed for stages that need a stronger, more dramatic visual narrative. I am based in Delhi NCR but travel frequently for performances across India. For any booking, please note that I require a sound check and clear lighting cues, especially for my thematic productions. If you are uncertain about the right fit for your venue, let us discuss how a specific theme might serve your audience.
Tanya Saxena
I am a dancer and an eternal student of the arts. For me, Bharatanatyam is not just a performance; it is how I process the world, blending mythology, history, and modern questions into every movement. Whether it is a solo recital or a group production, I am here to tell stories that resonate.
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