Shikhandi: The Inner Quest – A Thematic Bharatanatyam Production

A Narrative Built on Research

Every movement in Shikhandi: The Inner Quest is the result of years of inquiry into ancient texts and shastras. Unlike traditional Bharatanatyam performances that focus purely on the Margam repertoire, this production functions as a lecture-performance hybrid. It delves into the story of a warrior who transcends body and gender, challenging the audience to introspect on the 'man in the woman and the woman in the man.'

Technical and Logistical Requirements

To maintain the integrity of the performance, I do not perform this production on recorded tracks. The live musical ensemble is critical to the 'jugalbandi' between movement and sound. As this is a theatrical production, it requires:

• Dedicated Lighting: A technical script involving spotlights and specific shadow cues to emphasize the narrative shifts.
• Custom Production: Specialized character makeup, tribal-influenced costumes, and specific props are managed by my team to ensure the aesthetic remains grounded in the period of the epic.

Where This Fits

I have performed Shikhandi across India, from the amphitheaters of Delhi University to specialized arts festivals in Chennai and Bangalore. It is ideally suited for:

• Literary and Cultural Festivals: Where the narrative depth resonates with academic audiences.
• University and Liberal Arts Forums: Providing a bridge between performance art and sociological discussion.
• Private and Public Theatres: Where a controlled lighting and sound environment is available.

Whether you are hosting an event in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, or Chennai, I ensure the production is tailored to the venue's capacity while keeping the core narrative of courage and self-acceptance intact.