Dance Performances & Productions
Available across India
I present solo and group Bharatanatyam shows, original productions with live music, and collaborative works that mix classical dance styles.
Pricing Guide
Signature Solo Recital: The Margam
The Artist & Performance
- Lead Performer: Solo recital by Parshwanath Upadhye.
- Repertoire: Traditional Margam (Alarippu to Tillana) or thematic solo works like 'Partha' or 'Mitrā'.
- Style: High-energy, athletically demanding Bharatanatyam with a focus on dramatic storytelling.
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes of continuous performance.
Live Musical Ensemble
- Composition: 4-5 piece live band. Not recorded audio.
- Vocalist: Professional Carnatic vocalist.
- Instruments: Mridangam for percussion, Violin or Flute for melody, and Nattuvangam for rhythm conduction.
Production Value
- Lighting: Includes a dedicated Lighting Director to manage visual atmosphere.
- Aesthetic: Premium designer costumes (often Ahinsa silk).
- Tech: Includes a 2-hour technical sound check prior to the event.
Feature Duet or Trio Production
Core Performance
- Cast: 2 to 3 Principal Dancers (Parshwanath Upadhye + Senior Collaborators like Adithya PV or Shruti Gopal).
- Titles: Specific productions such as ATAH (Connecting the Dots), SUTÃ (Birth of a Father), or Raag Raagini.
- Theme: Narrative-heavy, often exploring mythological or philosophical themes with a modern theatrical touch.
Technical & Visuals
- Lighting Design: Advanced lighting plot execution by a dedicated designer. Uses dramatic shadows and silhouettes.
- Props: Inclusion of production-specific props (e.g., lanterns, fabric) and atmospheric effects like haze.
Music & Logistics
- Orchestra: Full live ensemble with 5-6 musicians (may include Tabla/Sitar for fusion works).
- Crew: Includes 1 Stage Manager for cues and property management.
- Styling: Professional stage makeup and designer costumes specific to the theme.
Grand Ensemble: Punyah Dance Company
The Production
- Troupe: Parshwanath Upadhye plus 8 to 12 skilled dancers from the Punyah Dance Company.
- Titles: Large-scale productions like ĀBHA (Ramayana retelling), Naga Mandala, or Maya.
- Choreography: Intricate group formations and synchronized movement suitable for large proscenium stages.
Theatrical Elements
- Visual Drama: Cinematic lighting design and operation included.
- Wardrobe: Multiple costume changes and elaborate jewelry fitting epic storylines.
- Music: A robust live music ensemble (6-7 musicians) providing the acoustic backdrop.
Technical Specs
- Management: Dedicated stage manager to call cues.
- Preparation: Covers intense pre-show rehearsals required for group synchronization.
- Note: Excludes travel, accommodation, and hospitality for the touring party (approx 18-20 pax).
About Dance Performances & Productions
My Approach to Dance
For me, art isn't just a job - it's how I live. Everything centers around nritya (dance), kalike (learning), and karma (action). My work is all about creating and sharing dance with both fire and heart. I bring this philosophy to every show, solo or group.
What You’ll See On Stage
- Solo Bharatanatyam recitals, in the classic Margam style. It's just me and the music, exploring rhythms and emotions.
- Grand group productions with my Punyah Dance Company. These are big, theatrical group dance shows telling epic stories with dramatic lighting and costumes.
- Collaborative choreography projects where I blend Bharatanatyam with other forms, like Kathak. These works can be duet, trio, or even more.
Productions Close to My Heart
Some of my signature works:
- ĀBHA: Our retelling of the Ramayana, focusing on beauty and hope.
- Naga Mandala: Intense storytelling, moody stage effects.
- ATAH: A duet about connections, performed with Adithya PV.
- Maya: Our next big project, diving into the Mahabharata.
- Plus other pieces like SUTÃ, Astithva, and the solo MITRÄ.
The Team Behind the Scenes
Every show is a team effort. We always have a live music ensemble, with vocalists and musicians who make every step feel alive. Lighting and costumes matter as much as the dance itself.
Keeping It Real
Some days, I’m lost in the performance. Other times, I’m thinking about the post-show gulab jamun. It’s not always glam, but I believe tenacity beats talent. We show up, we dance, we tell stories.
Meet your Expert
Parshwanath Upadhye
637 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Namaste, I’m Parshwanath. No shortcuts for me - I waited, doubted, got rejected, then built my own stage. Punyah Theatre in Bangalore? That’s my crazy dream come true, a spot for artists who don’t want to wait for someone else’s approval. I find joy in silly things like tummy jitters before shows or hunting for the perfect tiger photo. My humor’s a bit off, memes everywhere. I believe in making art with joy, fire, and a stubborn heart.
My Work
Bharatanatyam & Collaborations - I perform Bharatanatyam, sometimes mixing it up with Yakshagana or Kathak in productions like 'Tyāg' and 'Samvād'.
Teaching & Antar Shaala - I teach dance at Upadhye School, from online classes to Bharatanatyam residential workshops at Abhyasa Shaala. Expect memes, discipline, and finding your own voice.
Experimental Productions - I love retelling classics - like Mahabharata dance retelling in 'Maya', or new takes in 'NagaMandala' and 'Abha'.
Punyah Theatre & Festivals - We run Punyah Theatre, organize Punyah Dance Festival, Nartaka Festival - a place for all to dance, learn, and just be.
