Shakti – The power of Female Essence
Come join us at The Robinson Theatre for a transformative event celebrating the strength and beauty of the female essence. Dive deep into the Shakti energy that resides within each of us, empowering us to embrace our true selves. Let’s come together to honor and amplify the divine Shakti within us all. Don’t miss out on this empowering experience which showcases 4 Indian classical dance styles.
What to expect?: A trailer of the 4 classical dancers- https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFabIIkSaeo/?
https://www.facebook.com/reel/957496036511297
Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form with over 2,000 years of history, evolved from the Dasi and Sadir traditions in the temples and courts of southern India. Known for its precise footwork, graceful body positions, and complex rhythms, it features sculpturesque poses and expressive hand gestures that bring ancient stories to life. Bharatanatayam will be performed by Nandini Jayakumar, an innovative young dancer and choreographer, known for her strong technique, nuanced expressions and commanding stage presence.
Mohiniyattam is known for its graceful presentation techniques. It is believed to have originated in Kerala, a southwestern state of India. This dance form is popularly recognised as a feminine art, characterised by its slow-paced, subtle, yet elegant movements. Mohiniyattam stands out from other dance traditions with its distinctive swaying and oscillatory movements of the torso, exceptional body balance, and intrinsic expressions, which together make it a soulful, meditative performance tradition. Mohiniyattam will be performed by a multifaceted artist Dr. Swetha Mangalath, who integrates her passion for this graceful dance form with academic and research endeavours.
Kathak, deriving its name from the Sanskrit words ‘katha’ (story) and ‘kathakar’ (storyteller), is the oldest acknowledged classical dance from the Indo-Gangetic belt whose earliest reference is 4th century BC. It is characterised by natural movements, vitality, intricate footwork, pirouettes, abhinaya, and mime. Kathak will be performed by Ragini Madan, a choreographer and teacher, known for her riveting performances, footwork clarity and collaborative efforts.
Kuchipudi is a classical dance style of India, originating from the temples and Yakshagana Theatre of Andhra Pradesh and Telegana in South India. This dance tells the universal story with mime, expression, body movements and footwork patterns. It is a combination of Tandava (the majestic, masculine) and and Lasya (lyrical graceful and feminine energy). It is a unique style that speaks through manifold rhythmic patterns, melodic gestures and subtle facial expressions, creates a new world of ecstasy and gives an ethereal existence. Kuchipudi will be performed by Harshini Bhupathiraju, one of the upcoming exponents of the art form, a passionate performer, choreographer and teacher.
