Solo Bharatanatyam Performances and Classical Productions
Dance is my conversation with the divine. Here, I share the stories of love, longing, and Bhakti that I bring to the stage through my solo Bharatanatyam productions.
A series of moments from my solo Bharatanatyam production, "Moham". Each frame captures a different facet of the performance, from graceful postures to deep, expressive abhinaya, all part of a larger story of love and longing.
Lost in the story of "Moham". This is a moment of complete immersion in the character, where the abhinaya flows from a place of deep feeling. My goal in performance is to connect with the audience on an emotional level.
An upward glance, a gesture of offering. In classical dance, every movement has a meaning. This moment from "Moham" portrays a feeling of devotion and surrender, central themes in many traditional Bharatanatyam pieces.
A smile can convey a world of meaning in abhinaya. Here, during my "Moham" performance, a gentle expression communicates joy and contentment. I work with dancers to find the authenticity in every emotion they portray.
This is the official poster for my production "Moham". Creating a full-length solo show involves not just choreography but also collaboration with talented musicians to create a complete artistic experience.
An invitation to an evening of Bharatanatyam. This "Save the Date" was for my performance "Moham", where I explored stories of love and longing through the classical dance form, supported by a wonderful team of collaborating artists.
A view from the wings, watching me perform a Meera bhajan. This is a special perspective, showing the energy and focus of a live performance. I have performed this piece many times, yet it feels new every single time.
About this collection
When I prepare for a solo production like Moham, it is never just about the steps. It involves months of immersing myself in the Sahitya, or lyrics, and working closely with my musicians to ensure the music and my abhinaya breathe as one. Whether you are hosting a cultural event or seeking an intimate performance, I bring this same depth of dedication to every single piece I perform.
For me, a solo performance is a journey through the Maargam, the traditional path of a Bharatanatyam recital. My work often focuses on North Indian Bhakti poetry, a legacy passed down by my mother and guru, Smt. Jamuna Krishnan.
The Artistic Process
Every solo performance I present is built on the foundation of Abhinaya, the art of expression. I believe that if the dancer does not feel the emotion, the audience will not see it. My rehearsals are intense, often involving a deep dive into the context of the piece, the historical background of the lyrics, and the specific emotive intent of the character.
Collaboration and Music
True Bharatanatyam relies heavily on the synergy between the dancer and the musicians. In my productions, I prefer live musical collaboration where possible, as it allows for a spontaneous exchange of energy. I coordinate with skilled vocalists, percussionists, and instrumentalists to build a soundscape that supports the narrative.
What to Expect
Whether I am performing a traditional Pushpanjali to open a ceremony or a complete production that explores complex themes of love and devotion, my aim is to connect with the audience on a human level. I am happy to discuss themes or specific repertoire that might fit the tone of your event. If you are looking for an authentic, traditional, and emotionally resonant performance, let us connect to talk about how we can make it happen.
Ragini Chandershekar
I am Ragini Chandrashekhar, and dance for me is a way of keeping the memory of my mother, Smt. Jamuna Krishnan, alive in every mudra. When you watch me perform, you are watching a story unfold, one that I have lived and learned through years of dedicated practice.
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