Making a strong connection

Beyond Words

That’s why when her latest offering Burka Bondage was announced, people from all corners of the City came to watch it at the Ranga Shankara.

However, some members of the audience returned disappointed as one of the main dancers didn’t make it to India due to ‘logistic issues’.

The director promised to screen the original dance-drama and improvise it with the rest of the dancers. And some Bangaloreans did stay back to watch it. 

“There’s nothing like watching it live, watching on screen will not be the same. It is rather disappointing that the dancers could not make it but I guess I will wait till next time,” said Anusha, who returned home without seeing the performance.

However, David who stayed back, said, “Helena can never disappoint. I had watched her previous production and I am sure this will be equally good.”

Burka Bondage spoke of passion and pain of two female dancers who struggle for freedom from ‘burka’ and Japanese bondage.

Without any dialogue, the dancers put across many messages like the inner and outer struggle a woman faces in her society. 

At the same time, Helena did manage to find a connection between the young generation of Afghanistan and Japan. “There was a lot of symbolism used, some of which was very difficult to understand. Things like atrocity against women were shown in so many different ways. Especially, the scene when they try to capture the brutality of sex. I swear I felt everyone twitch in their seats at that time,” said Shilpa, after the event.
Though the disappointment for not getting to see the actual drama was evident, what really saved the day was the live performance by Mohammed Reza Mortazavi, who played Daf, a traditional Iranian instrument.

“The Daf performance was amazing. Just watching him play for an hour without any break was incredible. I feel the evening was a surprise treat for one and all,” said Anjana from the audience.