'Ikshana': A Bharatanatyam Dance-Drama on Climate Change
I use the vocabulary of Bharatanatyam to explore the climate crisis, examining our relationship with the planet through movement, history, and storytelling.
In this informal Q&A, I share details about my production 'Ikshana' while getting ready backstage. I explain what the show is about, where we are touring, and my belief that dance can be a powerful medium to engage audiences with urgent contemporary issues like the climate crisis.
About 'Ikshana': A Dance Dialogue on Climate Change
Getting ready backstage for 'Ikshana' is a surreal reminder of why I started this—it is not just about the technical perfection of the steps, but about holding a mirror to the planet. We are currently touring this production across India, so if you are looking to see how classical forms can spark difficult conversations about our environmental footprint, reach out to inquire about our upcoming show schedule.
The climate crisis is perhaps the most defining issue of our time, and for me, silence is not an option. With 'Ikshana', I wanted to move beyond the proscenium and use the language of Bharatanatyam to tell a story that feels urgent and necessary. This is not a lecture in the traditional sense, but a dance drama that weaves together mythology, history, and the raw reality of our changing environment.
In our Nritta and Abhinaya, we trace the history of mankind's interaction with the Earth. My aim is to make classical Indian dance a medium for social inquiry. Whether we are depicting the abundance of nature or the stark realities of climate change, the goal is to bridge the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern awareness.
This project involves a dedicated team of artists, from musicians to fellow dancers, all committed to this dialogue. We have taken 'Ikshana' to various cities, including Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, and Delhi, to ensure these conversations reach a diverse audience. If you are representing an organization, a school, or a community space interested in hosting a performance that marries classical choreography with critical thinking, I would be happy to discuss how we can bring this production to your venue.
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