Mumbai, 28th July, 2023 – Get ready to be captivated by the spellbinding collaboration of Nrityagram Dance Ensemble and Chitrasena Dance Company as the NCPA and Sahachari Foundation proudly present AHUTI, an extraordinary dance performance that merges the traditional beauty of Odissi and Sri Lanka’s Kandyan Dance with contemporary flair. Set against a backdrop of exquisite rhythms from both countries, AHUTI takes the stage at the renowned Jamshed Bhabha Theatre, NCPA on Thursday, 10th August, at 6.30 pm.
AHUTI is a breathtaking exploration of the meeting point between Kandyan and Odissi dance traditions. These vibrant dance forms engage in a rhythmic dialogue, challenging, combining, and embracing each other in a musical conversation like never before. Prepare to be swept away by the artistry and skill of the exceptional performers who will take you on a journey of cultural fusion and artistic expression.
According to Swapnokalpa Dasgupta, Head of Dance Programming at NCPA, “AHUTI is a groundbreaking collaboration showcasing dance’s true essence. It celebrates the diverse dance traditions from India and Sri Lanka, blending the ancient and the contemporary. This performance promises to be a feast for the senses, leaving the audience inspired.”
Supported by Deepak Fertilizers & Petrochemicals Corp. Ltd. And KERF, AHUTI is a testament to its unwavering commitment to the arts and cultural exchange. The collaboration between Nrityagram and Chitrasena Dance Company exemplifies the power of artistic collaboration in fostering harmony and mutual appreciation.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind dance experience that transcends borders, unites cultures and communities. Immerse yourself in the magic of AHUTI and witness the beauty of dance come alive on the stage.
Nrityagram:
Nrityagram is India’s first modern Gurukul (residential school) for Indian classical dances and an intentional community as a dance village. Founded in 1990 by Odissi dancer Protima Gauri, Nrityagram offers training in various Indian classical dance forms, including Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Manipuri. Situated near Bengaluru’s Hesaraghatta Lake, Nrityagram is renowned for its immersive training, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble, comprised of exceptionally talented dancers, has performed extensively in India and across the globe, captivating audiences with their exquisite performances.
Chitrasena Dance Company:
Chitrasena Dance Company, led by the late Deshamanya Chitrasena, is internationally recognized for its significant contributions to establishing a modern Sri Lankan dance tradition. The company has gained widespread acclaim and popularity worldwide, focusing on promoting traditional Sri Lankan dance forms, including Kandyan Dance. Chitrasena’s pioneering efforts revolutionized the dance landscape in Sri Lanka, infusing it with new dynamism and extending its reach to contemporary audiences. Known for their artistic excellence, the Chitrasena Dance Company continues to inspire and captivate with their compelling performances.
Swapnokalpa Dasgupta:
Swapnokalpa Dasgupta is an accomplished professional in the field of dance. As Head of Dance Programming at NCPA, Mumbai, she showcases her expertise as a Classical Odissi Dance Performer, Teacher, Dance Curator, Choreographer, and Arts Administrator. With a keen eye for artistic excellence and a passion for promoting cultural exchange, Swapnokalpa has curated numerous exceptional dance productions. Her extensive experience in program conceptualization and execution, arts education, and arts marketing and audience development has contributed significantly to the growth and enrichment of the dance community. Her commitment to promoting diverse dance forms and nurturing talent has made her a respected figure in the dance world.
