Credit: Special Arrangement
Chinmayi Nrithyalaya, a Kuchipudi institution based in Hyderabad and New Jersey, will stage the ballet ‘Chandalika’ at the Bangalore International Centre, Domlur, on July 16.
The performance will be directed by Sridevi Chalagalla Mungara, a disciple of Sobha Naidu, and will feature Chinmayi Mungara, Sridevi’s daughter.
‘Chandalika’, originally published in 1933, is a drama written by Rabindranath Tagore. It was first interpreted as a Kuchipudi dance drama by Padma Bhushan recipient Vempati Chinna Satyam and was later modified and adapted by his disciple, Padma Shri Sobha Naidu.
It tells the story of Prakriti, a young Chandala (untouchable) woman, and her personal transformation in the face of societal exclusion. The drama follows her journey from confusion and rejection to anger, shame, self-realisation, and ultimately, emancipation. “At its heart”, Chinmayi explains, “this ballet is about a woman who is yearning to be seen”.
Highlighting its roots in theatre, Chinmayi notes that Kuchipudi is a character-driven dance form, making the use of dialogue whenever necessary. In her words, “Kuchipudi, as a dance form, is a dance of the eyes”. It is a classical dance form known for its extensive use of abhinaya (expression), laya (rhythm) and bhava (emotion).
On July 16, 7 pm at Bangalore International Centre, Domlur. Entry free. For details, visit bangaloreinternationalcentre.org