---
title: "18 Days: The Mahabharata Dance Drama by Sharat Prabhath"
description: "Experience 18 Days, a large-scale Mahabharata dance drama by Sharat Prabhath. We blend classical Kathak, original music, and stage technology."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/18-days-the-mahabharata-saga
last_updated: 2025-09-06
---

# 18 Days: The Mahabharata Saga Dance Production

Tribe Verified · Rooted in a 500-year legacy of arts.

By [Sharat Prabhath](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath) · Studio in Jayanagar; Available across India · ₹35K Per 10-15 min Track (estimate)

Part of [Choreography & Music Composition](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/gallery)

Witness the Mahabharata come alive through this large-scale dance drama, where traditional Kathak, original compositions, and modern stage technology converge.

## Photos and videos

- ![A powerful formation from '18 Days', where the ensemble cast moves as one. The choreography here is designed to show the scale and discipline of the armies, using synchronized movement to build dramatic tension.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/dee9401e-5ec1-4d49-b77d-e98c67a7e964)
- ![This scene between Krishna and Arjuna is a pivotal moment in '18 Days'. The choreography and costuming are designed to reflect their divine and human connection, telling a story of guidance and devotion through expressive gestures.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bffa6ad2-824d-491c-a8ab-3fbd9e7935e0)
- [Video: In this dramatic scene, I portray Krishna confronting Karna about his choices. The dialogue and choreography explore the complexities of dharma, using the theatrical format to delve into the philosophical questions at the heart of the Mahabharata.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b23c62e3-9938-4e31-9e08-3ad7b1f69f6e)
- ![Portraying the dynamic between Krishna and the cunning Shakuni required careful choreographic choices. Here, the contrast in their postures and expressions tells a story of dharma versus adharma, a central theme of the production.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d11c4086-3052-4e6d-9667-4e22dac34145)
- [Video: In this conversation with filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, we discuss the creative vision behind '18 Days'. I explain how we blend traditional Natya, which includes dance, theatre, and music, with modern interpretations to make the epic accessible.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c39a2e96-7dda-4215-b5a7-a53cb8a088e3)
- [Video: Music is the soul of the show. I explain to Vivek Agnihotri how I composed the music for '18 Days', using a dissonant nine-and-a-half beat cycle for the character of Shakuni to create a feeling of crookedness, and a soothing raga for Krishna to represent dharma.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/560f0242-6d37-4c35-8b51-95bc120424c8)
- [Video: Veteran actor and director Prakash Belawadi shares his perspective on '18 Days'. I was honored to hear him describe it as a production that takes our tradition into the future by amalgamating dance, music, and technical wizardry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/64ab2248-d5b7-46dd-bb1b-f07e51f21830)
- [Video: It was a proud moment to hear MP Tejasvi Surya speak about '18 Days'. He highlights the production's technical expertise, grand costumes, and its core message of dharma, recognizing it as a celebration of Indian culture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3b2a43c0-e3c8-4e3b-b6a3-09b280fbe8aa)
- [Video: Actor Upendra Rao's reaction to the show was incredibly encouraging. He spoke of being transported by the performance and appreciated the dedication of the artists in creating an unforgettable experience without the cinematic luxury of retakes.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c226f52d-7c40-4ded-b435-24e73fad4ba4)
- [Video: Esteemed critic Ashish Khokar described '18 Days' as a complete work of art, unlike anything seen in decades. His view that the show is a compulsory watch for young India was a profound validation of our mission.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8f00f5e5-24b8-47c6-a93f-75ced60500fc)
- [Video: We were thrilled to receive this review for our Mahabharat performance. The praise for the choreography, costumes, and visual storytelling as a 'total package' is a testament to the hard work of our entire team.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/55bad2ca-0c4b-420c-bfcc-9c3b65236c9e)
- [Video: Here, I announce a significant milestone: our invitation to open the 27th Bangkok International Music and Dance Festival with '18 Days'. This was a humbling opportunity to represent our country's artistic heritage on a global stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4ed1d0f0-6bf4-41bb-bd3c-d362a45e2c74)
- [Video: Announcing a fundraiser performance of '18 Days' in Bangalore. We often use our art to support important causes, in this case, raising funds for an educational institution. The production was presented in both Kannada and English.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a4c24d37-8c82-4898-aeda-61f865bdab40)
- [Video: A glimpse into the character of Krishna from '18 Days'. This clip showcases the dynamic movement and expressive acting required to portray his divine and playful nature on stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/703fede6-1aad-4536-8274-af72d663da7e)
- ![A cherished memory of presenting '18 Days' at Purana Qila in Delhi before esteemed ministers and ambassadors. Bringing the Mahabharata to the historical Indraprastha was a truly special honor.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/12f622e4-ae0d-4a08-aa52-c7d60927a31e)
- ![A scene from '18 Days' depicting the complex relationship between Krishna and Arjuna. The lighting and costuming are integral to setting the mood and highlighting the characters' emotional states.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6174e0b7-4c75-457e-a34b-4b8b26d1df68)
- ![Another powerful moment between Krishna and Arjuna, showcasing the blend of dance and drama that defines the production. My goal is to make these iconic characters relatable and their dilemmas resonant.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f5c3e90f-f79e-47f1-8e7e-4a589f102d7d)
- ![A selfie with the entire cast and crew of '18 Days' alongside filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri. This image captures the collaborative spirit and joy that fuels our large-scale productions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0847da3a-7626-439c-a6ca-9cf7dc15c64d)
- ![A moment of gratitude on stage, shaking hands with Vivek Agnihotri after a performance. His appreciation for our work is a great source of motivation for me and my team.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/26ca3cc0-d5c6-46d5-ab71-558266eae7e5)
- ![The full cast of '18 Days' on stage. It takes a dedicated army of artists, technicians, and designers to bring a production of this magnitude to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/78835240-ed1b-4254-a557-a0237ea49b7f)
- ![Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri and actress Pallavi Joshi addressing the audience after our show. Their presence and encouraging words meant a great deal to all of us.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c22c592a-159e-4a80-b57e-3b93c1a0d07a)
- ![A standing ovation from an audience of eminent personalities in Mumbai. This reception is a testament to the power of the Mahabharata and the hard work of our team.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/982a7e6d-18d3-48b0-9b4f-56b25f2120e6)
- ![A dramatic portrayal of Bhima from '18 Days'. The choreography for each character is tailored to their personality, from Bhima's power to Krishna's grace.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3cbb9ab8-9aa0-488e-9f82-983595dbce7b)
- ![A tender moment between Krishna and Shakuni, exploring the complex moral landscape of the epic. Even in conflict, there are layers of emotion to explore through abhinaya (expression).](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fc284c7f-dd6c-4b63-be35-e2a37be9e57a)
- ![Krishna's commanding presence on stage. The costume, with its intricate headgear and armor, is designed to evoke a sense of divinity and royalty.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/26748354-e93a-4af3-ac4d-cad9c578f586)
- [Video: A look back at our journey to Delhi with the '18 Days' production. Taking our performance to Indraprastha, the historical heart of the Mahabharata, was a deeply meaningful experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ea1bd11b-db67-47cc-b194-c8c0f46dd2a2)
- ![It was a great honor to be invited by the Vice Chief of the Indian Army, Gen. Raju, to Rashtrapati Bhavan after he was moved by our '18 Days' production.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a6c77488-c411-4aed-9041-fbd6ec3a0326)
- ![The official memento presented by the Indian Army. This recognition for our artistic work from the armed forces is something I will always cherish.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9b8a7608-eab2-4826-a131-fbeb1423915c)
- [Video: Here I discuss the innovative techniques used in '18 Days', such as using child actors to create a forced perspective for Ghatotkacha, creating live VFX on stage without technology.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7278627c-818a-479a-9a9a-b2eda64532d3)
- ![Posing with my brother Bharat and filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri. It's always rewarding to connect with fellow artists who are passionate about telling India's stories.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8e596d3b-0b46-4b5b-85c8-25ae5c38d84f)
- ![Receiving a copy of 'The Book of Life' from Vivek Agnihotri. His support for '18 Days' and our work at Prabhat Arts International is truly inspiring.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/13ad09dc-9050-400a-af36-e4c9ab0bce3e)
- [Video: A clip from our podcast conversation, where we delve into the deep research and literary foundations of the '18 Days' production.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cff3ef03-f4bc-40f5-a770-da7c69b78963)

## About 18 Days: The Mahabharata Saga

This production is an exercise in intentional dissonance. For the character of Shakuni, I composed the music in a nine-and-a-half beat cycle, specifically designed to irritate the listener and mirror his crooked nature. When Krishna enters the scene, the rhythm shifts to a soothing raga, reinforcing the path of dharma. Every beat on this stage serves a narrative purpose.

My work on '18 Days' is built on the philosophy of Natya—the union of dance, theatre, and music. Unlike a traditional recital, this is a 60-90 minute immersive experience that requires a synchronization of multiple disciplines.

### The Anatomy of the Production
- **Technical Wizardry:** We integrate 3D visual effects and precise lighting cues to move beyond the limitations of a standard stage. The goal is to make the technology invisible so the audience remains focused on the epic narrative.
- **Musical Composition:** I compose from scratch, blending Carnatic and Hindustani sensibilities. We move away from synthesized MIDI, opting for live recordings with A-grade session musicians to ensure the sound has depth and weight.
- **Dharma in Movement:** Choreography here isn't just about technical footwork. It is about character development—portraying the complex duality of figures like Karna and the divine grace of Krishna. 

We bring this production to venues across India, adapting the scale to fit different theatrical spaces. Whether it is a historical site or a modern auditorium, the objective remains the same: to create a space where the audience feels the rasa, or the aesthetic bliss, of the story.

## About Sharat Prabhath

I am Sharat Prabhath. This production is the culmination of my family’s 500-year legacy in the arts, blending our classical roots with the technical demands of modern theatre. I direct, choreograph, and compose to ensure every movement and note serves the story.

[See all of Sharat Prabhath's services](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath)

## More from Choreography & Music Composition by Sharat Prabhath

- [Featured](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/featured)
- [New Mythological Productions](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/new-mythological-productions)
- [The Composer's Craft: Music & Rhythm](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/the-composer-s-craft-music-rhythm)
- [Solo Artistry: Kathak & Abhinaya](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/solo-artistry-kathak-abhinaya)
- [Harikatha: The Art of Storytelling](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/harikatha-the-art-of-storytelling)
- [Behind the Scenes & Workshops](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/behind-the-scenes-workshops)
- [Recognition & Guru Parampara](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/choreography-music-composition/recognition-guru-parampara)

## More services by Sharat Prabhath

- [Kathak Dance Classes](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/kathak-dance-classes)
- [Classical Indian Performances & Productions](https://mytribe.in/sharatprabhath/classical-indian-performances-productions)

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## Book

To book Sharat Prabhath, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Namaste%20Sharat%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20'18%20Days'%20dance%20drama%20and%20would%20like%20to%20discuss%20a%20similar%20production%20for%20our%20upcoming%20event.)