Himanshu Srivastava

I explore lesser-known mythological narratives through research-based Bharatanatyam productions and painting exhibitions. My work blends scholarly investigation with artistic performance to bring ancient stories into a modern dialogue.

Presenting "Un-Eklavya," a production that re-examines the story of the tribal warrior from the Mahabharata. Through this piece, I question our modern battles and the sacrifices we choose to make, exploring the idea of a spirit that lives beyond physical limitations.

This poster announces my performance of two signature productions, "The Abandoned Gopi" and "Shikhandi," at the prestigious Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Performing at such a venue was an honor, allowing me to share these transformative tales with a discerning audience in Mumbai.

A powerful moment from "Antardweep," a collaborative production with Dr. Prachi Mehta Jariwala. This duet explores the concept of the body as a temple, blending the forms of Bharatanatyam and Odissi to create a unique dialogue between two classical dance styles.

Bharatanatyam Dance Performances

Based in Delhi NCR; performs across India

I perform Bharatanatyam with live orchestra, blending traditional Margam recitals and original thematic solo acts based on deep research and rare stories.

50K-2L

per performance

This poster for my solo production, "The Abandoned Gopi," captures the essence of my work: exploring lesser-known, poignant tales from our mythology. The performance delves into a rare story of Lord Shiva's transformation, a narrative of complete surrender and devotion.

My painting of Ardhanarishvara, the composite form of Shiva and Parvati. This piece explores the philosophy of duality and non-duality, questioning whether the vermillion of Shakti overpowers the ash of Shiva, or if they simply merge into one complete whole.

Sharing the joy of dance with young minds in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. My workshops for schools, often in smaller towns, focus on making Bharatanatyam and Indian mythology accessible and interactive, introducing basics like *mudras* and stories.

Delivering my "Drishya-Adrishya" (The Seen and Unseen) lecture in Mumbai. In these sessions, I guide participants to look beyond the obvious in mythological art and tales, uncovering the deeper layers of symbolism and philosophy.

I was deeply humbled and honored to be featured on the cover of Vrindavan Today. This was captured during a research trip for a festival, a journey that left me overwhelmed with new thoughts and inspirations from the sacred land of Vraj.

A moment from "Antardweep," a collaborative duet with Dr. Prachi Mehta, blending Bharatanatyam and Odissi. This production explores the idea of our ancient temples as not just places of worship, but as architectural codes guiding us to find divinity within.

Educational Workshops & Lectures

Available online and in-person across India

I run workshops and lectures where I use dance, art, and stories to make Indian mythology and philosophy easy to understand for anyone, not just experts.

8-25K

per session

This painting, "Lalita Tripurasundari," is a culmination of deep scriptural study and artistic vision. It depicts the Great Goddess creating the ten avatars of Vishnu from her very fingernails, a concept from the Lalita Sahasranama. Every detail, from the Navamundi aasana to the expressions of Maya and Medha, is rendered to convey the divine play, or 'Leela', of the cosmos.

This mural of Bhikshaatanar, a wandering form of Shiva, was painted directly onto a wall in my home. The composition captures his playful yet profound nature as he walks the path of Maya, followed by the monkey-mind offering the fruit of karma. It showcases my ability to create large-scale narrative art for personal spaces.

My art extends to wearable ritual textiles, like this hand-painted 'Sada laal' saree for Durga Puja. The motifs of fish and lotus are not merely decorative; they are researched symbols of auspiciousness and divinity, turning a traditional garment into a sacred offering.

Here I am with my completed work, "PoornaChandrika," a large commissioned painting of Devi Kamakshi. This piece took over a year and a half to complete, a testament to the slow, patient process of creating 'heartwork' that is deeply invested with research and devotion.

In "SETU," I explore a touching episode from the Ramayana. The artwork illustrates how Lord Rama acknowledges the humble efforts of a squirrel, bridging the gap between the mighty and the small. This piece reflects my focus on the philosophical and emotional depths within our epic tales.

Fine Art & Painting Services

Based in Delhi NCR; ships and takes mural projects across India

I create custom mythological paintings, murals, and ritual textiles based on deep research in Indian scriptures, using traditional styles and personal storytelling.

12K-1.5L

per commissioned painting (canvas, approx. 18x24 inches to 36x48 inches)

Meet your expert

Himanshu Srivastava

My Story

Namaskar, I’m Himanshu. Grew up in Prayagraj, surrounded by dance and colors. My gurus—especially my mother, Smt. Kamalini Nagarajan Dutt—shaped everything I do. Lost her, but her lessons walk with me. I see Bharatanatyam and painting as one big sangam, mixing Chola lines, Ajanta colors, and Phad technique. My Ph.D. even tied dance to sculpture. I dance, paint, and research to keep Amma’s vision alive. Art is my way to ask, ‘when next?’

My Work

What I Offer - Thematic Bharatanatyam productions (solo, duet, collaborations), painting exhibitions with art talks, and research-based workshops on Indian art and mythology.

My Approach - It’s never just about performing. I dig into shastras, epics—stories like Shikhandi and Ras-E-Raskhan—then shape them for today.

Art Meets Dance - My painting style—Chola-inspired lines, Ajanta colors—feeds my choreography. Both arts live together at @thenatyachitra.

Stories Close to Me - Solo acts like Shikhandi and UnEklavya aren’t just tales, but questions. I want audiences to feel, to think, to connect.

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Himanshu Srivastava