Traditional Harikatha Performances and Mythological Storytelling
I bring the ancient tradition of Harikatha to life, weaving Puranic wisdom with music and dance to create moments of pure rasa and connection.
For an artist, there is no greater feeling than a full house choosing to experience a classical art form like Harikatha. When the audience connects with the stories and sings along, it is a reminder that the power of 'Rasa' is timeless.
Arjuna's letter to Indra, as narrated in this Harikatha, is a fantastic example of confidence rooted in devotion. He respectfully asks for the divine elephant Airavata but also playfully warns of his arrow's might, showing the unique, personal relationship devotees shared with the gods.
Another glimpse into Arjuna's cheeky devotion from a Harikatha performance. He reminds his father Indra to be mindful of his power, showcasing a relationship where reverence and playful confidence coexist. This is the beauty of Bhakti.
This Harikatha excerpt shows the chaos in Indra's court when Arjuna's arrow arrives. I use humor and dramatic narration to bring these celestial stories to life, making them entertaining and relatable for everyone.
A moment from a Harikatha performance exploring the raw, protective love of Bheema. When he finds his mother Kunti in distress, his first instinct is action, not questions. This scene highlights his character's immense strength and unwavering devotion.
Exploring the deep emotional bond between Bheema and his mother Kunti through Harikatha. Unlike the intellectual Arjuna, Bheema's devotion is pure, unquestioning, and fierce, a beautiful contrast that I love to explore in my storytelling.
The beauty of Haridasa literature lies in its intricate wordplay, or 'Prasa', which is so much more than just rhyme. In this performance, I delve into a composition that showcases this untranslatable literary genius.
A special video comparing my great grandfather's Harikatha performance at age 94 to my own. This art is a legacy in my family, and I am humbled to carry forward a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
The audience's response is the true measure of a performance. Seeing the hall filled with applause and chants of 'Jai Shri Ram' after a Harikatha is the greatest blessing an artist can ask for. It shows that Rama Rajya is where art and devotion thrive.
An invitation to 'Cittapaharanam', an evening featuring my live Harikatha performance alongside a fictional dance production. This event is designed to be an artistic adventure that captivates the mind and soul.
About Harikatha: The Art of Storytelling
Every session is a full performance, not just a lecture. I perform with a three-piece live classical orchestra—tabla, flute, and vocals—so you get the authentic texture of Carnatic music alongside the storytelling. We adapt the language to your audience, mixing English, Kannada, and Sanskrit so every guest stays connected to the narrative.
The Harikatha Experience
Harikatha is more than just telling stories from the Ramayana or Mahabharata; it is a spiritual performance designed to evoke 'Rasa'—that sense of bliss that transcends the everyday. In my performances, I merge the Jaipur Gharana Kathak style with Carnatic music, breaking down complex mythological texts into relatable lessons.
What to Expect
When you book a session, we are not just reading scriptures. We are exploring character psychology. Whether it is discussing Arjuna’s playful devotion to Indra or the fierce protectiveness of Bheema, I aim to show the human side of these divine figures. My goal is to make these narratives click for a modern audience, helping you find hope, humor, and guidance in tough times.
Performance Setup
Each 60–90 minute recital features:
- Live Ensemble: A dedicated 3-piece classical orchestra to provide the rhythmic and melodic backbone of the performance.
- Language Flexibility: Sessions are delivered in English, Kannada, or Sanskrit based on your preference, ensuring the narrative remains accessible to all guests.
- Audience Engagement: I actively interact with the guests, making the performance feel like a conversation rather than a monologue.
Whether you are planning a corporate cultural event, a private house warming, or a community gathering in Bengaluru, I bring the heritage of my family’s Harikatha legacy directly to your stage.
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