--- title: "Thematic Bharatanatyam Solo Performances | Dr. Himanshu Srivastava" description: "Experience researched, thematic Bharatanatyam solo productions by Dr. Himanshu Srivastava. Bringing Indian mythology to life through storytelling and dance." canonical: https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/solo-dance-productions last_updated: 2025-09-22 --- # Thematic Bharatanatyam Solo Productions Tribe Verified · 100+ shows of Shikhandi: The Inner Quest By [Himanshu Srivastava](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa) · Available online and in-person across India · ₹8,000 per session (estimate) Part of [Educational Workshops & Lectures](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/gallery) I bring lesser-known mythological tales to life through researched, thematic Bharatanatyam. From the inner quest of Shikhandi to the legend of the Abandoned Gopi, these productions merge ancient narratives with modern questions. ## Photos and videos - [Video: A powerful review for "UnEklavya" by senior Bharatanatyam artist Smt. Radhika Shurajit. This video shares stills from the performance, which sensitively portrays Eklavya's story of determination and skill beyond his sacrifice.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f322ea07-4bae-47a8-8901-9bdd83f8b650) - [Video: A glimpse into the premiere of "UnEklavya: The Riddle of the Thumb" in Chennai. This production, which I had been developing for four years, combines my work as a visual artist and a dancer, and I am grateful for the brilliant minds who helped bring it to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9e466a13-242e-4e34-a5f7-fac124891ed8) - [Video: Presenting excerpts of my work "UN-EKLAVYA" at the "Parabola of Dance" event in Mumbai. This was an opportunity to share the process behind the choreography, from the initial idea to the final staging of this dear production.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/35cca92b-84a1-4d45-b266-1e9ccc9a6db1) - [Video: A promotional video for my performance of "UN-EKLAVYA" at the "Parabola of Dance" event, curated by the esteemed Aditi Mangaldas ji. It was a delight to share the stage with other brilliant artists and discuss our creative paths.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/dea8ce56-c978-4535-bdc2-84445444568e) - ![A poster for my performance of "Shikhandi: The Inner Quest" in Trichy. This production critiques societal norms and parenting systems through the lens of a lesser-known hero from the Mahabharata, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7452a29e-ad53-4e5d-ad86-cdadcb386582) - ![An invitation to my performance of "Shikhandi" at the Delhi Literature Festival. As this production nears its 100th show, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who has been part of its journey, supporting its message of transcending body and gender.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/116e5a55-119b-4391-930d-6506f1d32806) - ![I was honored to be invited to present "Shikhandi: The Inner Quest" at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University's Department for Liberal Arts. It is heartening to see reputed institutions recognize and engage with such critical themes through art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ca510922-033f-40ba-9109-5def5c490687) - ![A descriptive poster for "Shikhandi: The Inner Quest," presented as part of the "Sā Dhwanii - Her Voice" series. The story is about a man, a woman, and the complex interplay of "the man in the woman and the woman in the man."](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/46741b1d-868e-4c38-a089-21a8629dacd5) - [Video: An invitation to the "Saadhwani and Uttariyam" festival in Chennai, where I presented "Shikhandi: The Inner Quest." In this video, I speak about the beautifully curated concept of the festival and invite the audience to join.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1171a362-7b1b-495c-9a85-cd2cbb7b9efd) - [Video: Sharing my experience of premiering "The Abandoned Gopi" at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. The intimate setting of 'The Cube' allowed for a close conversation with the audience, bringing the rare tale of Gopishwar Mahadev to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cbbdc781-f978-40e1-ab40-fe1d41343a1b) - [Video: This video promotes my solo production "The Abandoned Gopi" at the Nartaka Festival in Bangalore. The performance explores the legend of Gopishwar Shiv, a story of devotion and transformation from the holy city of Vrindavan.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/512468e3-5a50-4896-bea4-78de784c358a) - [Video: A promotional video for my performance of "The Abandoned Gopi" at the Suvarna festival in Kolkata. This production is a deep dive into a rare tale of surrender, where Lord Shiva himself becomes a Gopi to enter the divine Raas.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0f86bd0a-817f-48bb-80b9-a8e4036c2da5) - [Video: A collage celebrating the overwhelming response to "The Abandoned Gopi" and "Shikhandi" in Mumbai. This clip shows glimpses of the performance, the audience, and the collaborative process with the talented music team.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b47529eb-c0d4-43a5-9911-5406b0469ee6) - [Video: A promotional clip for "Madly in Love," a performance exploring the unsung heroes from the epic works of the poet Kalidasa. Through Bharatanatyam, I bring to life characters in states of love, anguish, and hope.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b0025ed4-ab78-4a31-993a-efe0ef0503c7) - ![This poster for "Ras-E-Raskhan" tells the story of a poet who found devotion in Vrindavan, transcending cast and creed. The performance is a mesmerizing tale in the Braj dialect, vivified through storytelling and dance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/88776b40-6f92-4a9a-8e61-83d5b00a1135) - [Video: In this video, I introduce the story of the Vaishnav poet Raskhan, whose journey of devotion is the subject of my production "Rase Raskhan." I speak about his struggle and eventual acceptance, a story I was excited to bring to Pune.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8b1368d0-e188-4116-b3c2-d05a71e089b4) - [Video: Another invitation to my performance of "Rase Raskhan" in Pune. I highlight the poet's journey from being barred from temples to having his works sung within them, a powerful testament to devotion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8f50e9de-d669-4354-a495-fedafc46ff20) - ![A moment from an intimate 'baithak' performance of "Ras-e-Raskhaan" in Kolkata. These smaller, focused gatherings allow for a deep connection with the *rasikas* (art connoisseurs), creating a truly special atmosphere.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b3d1776f-3126-4527-bc8d-7cbf5f7dc076) - [Video: A short clip from my performance at the Zapurza Utsav in Pune, where I presented "Margam & Me." This recital included the Meghdootam Varnam, a piece for which I am eternally grateful for the inputs from my mentors.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c3a7839b-fe53-4376-852c-c7e36abad4db) - [Video: An informal rehearsal of a Sri Bhadrachala Ramadasu keerthanam. This piece explores a tender moment of *sringara* (romantic love) between Rama and Sita, a plea conveyed through the nuanced expressions of Bharatanatyam.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d9c11eee-9009-49f9-b78d-4f62764d2a11) - [Video: Performing at the revered Kapalishwarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai. It is a blessing to dance in such a spiritual space, accompanied by a fantastic set of artists on vocals, nattuvangam, mridangam, and violin.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1c8416ff-0592-480c-a801-3f6bc57ff224) ## About Solo Dance Productions My productions are not merely dance recitals; they are explorations born from years of research into obscure mythological narratives. When you invite me for a solo performance, you are bringing a full thematic journey to your event—complete with visual storytelling, script-based nuances, and a focused engagement with the audience. Whether it is an intimate gathering or a large stage, I adapt the performance to bridge the gap between ancient scripture and the modern, inquisitive mind. ### My Approach to Performance I treat every solo production as a piece of *Nrityasewa* (service through dance). My process involves deep study of scriptures and epics, which I then translate into movement, rhythm, and spoken narrative. My work is not just about the technical perfection of *Adavus* or *Mudras*, but about the 'why' behind the story. ### Notable Productions - **Shikhandi: The Inner Quest:** A critique of societal norms and parenting systems that has crossed 100 shows. It explores the complex identity of a warrior who transcends gender. - **UnEklavya:** A re-examination of the Eklavya narrative, focusing on his determination and the intense sacrifice of the thumb. It challenges us to look beyond the popular version of the tale. - **The Abandoned Gopi:** A rare exploration of the legend of Gopishwar Mahadev, focusing on themes of surrender and divine devotion, often performed in intimate settings like 'The Cube' at NMACC. ### What You Can Expect When you book a solo production, we are not just scheduling a performance; we are creating a dialogue. I offer a hybrid experience where oral storytelling, rhythmic Bharatanatyam, and conceptual depth converge. Whether you are an institution looking for a thought-provoking session for liberal arts students, or a festival curator needing a show that lingers in the minds of your *Rasikas*, I bring the rigor of a research scholar and the passion of a performer. My performances can be tailored for various scales, from lecture-demonstrations that break down complex mythology to full-stage thematic productions. If you have a specific theme in mind for your cultural event, let us discuss how we can bring an untold narrative to your stage. ## About Himanshu Srivastava I am Himanshu. My dance is my service—my 'nrityasewa'. I do not just perform steps; I seek out the shadowed narratives of our epics and bring them into the light through Bharatanatyam. [See all of Himanshu Srivastava's services](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa) ## More from Educational Workshops & Lectures by Himanshu Srivastava - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/featured) - [Mythology on Canvas](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/mythology-on-canvas) - [Educational Outreach & Workshops](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/educational-outreach-workshops) - [Festival Performances & Collaborations](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/festival-performances-collaborations) - [Nrityasewa: Offerings in Sacred Spaces](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/nrityasewa-offerings-in-sacred-spaces) - [Press & Publications](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/press-publications) - [The Artist's Journey](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/educational-workshops-lectures/the-artist-s-journey) ## More services by Himanshu Srivastava - [Fine Art & Painting Services](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/fine-art-painting-services) - [Bharatanatyam Dance Performances](https://mytribe.in/himanshusrivastavaa/bharatanatyam-dance-performances) ## Similar work from other experts - [Thematic & Mythological Bharatanatyam Performances](https://mytribe.in/shreema_upadhyaya/live-dance-performances/the-storyteller-thematic-mythological-dance) by Shreema Upadhyaya · Live Dance Performances · Performs in Bengaluru, Chennai & across India - [Solo Bharatanatyam Performances and Classical Productions](https://mytribe.in/raginichandershekar/bharatanatyam-choreography-workshops/solo-performances-productions) by Ragini Chandershekar · Bharatanatyam Choreography & Workshops · Workshops at studio in Dwarka; travels across Delhi NCR and India - [Bharatanatyam Performances & Custom Choreography](https://mytribe.in/divthedancer/bharatanatyam-classes-workshops/stage-performances-choreography) by Divya Hoskere · Bharatanatyam Classes & Workshops · Classes at Kanakapura Road, Bengaluru - [Mythological Dance & Devotional Choreography](https://mytribe.in/akshatha.pai23/dance-choreography-for-events-competitions/dance-of-the-divine-mythological-storytelling) by Nritya Gurukul · Dance Choreography for Events & Competitions · Studio sessions in Sector 82, Noida & travels to venues across Delhi NCR - [Cultural Narratives and Thematic Bharatanatyam Productions](https://mytribe.in/jayalakshmi.eshwar/bharatanatyam-performances/cultural-narratives-weaving-stories-through-dance) by Jayalakshmi Eshwar · Bharatanatyam Performances · Performs across India; Based at Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi - [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 ## Book To book Himanshu Srivastava, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Namaskar%20Dr.%20Himanshu%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20solo%20dance%20productions%20on%20mytribe%20and%20would%20love%20to%20discuss%20a%20performance%20for%20my%20event.)