A fun jathi revision with dearest @swarnamalyag about a year ago at Pudukkottai. Shall post the jathi video sometime later! Happens to be our guru Sarasa teacher’s vibrant jathi, and one of our favourites.
Seeing through the prism – and then not. Not that different ?
I had posted our revision video a few days ago, and here is the jathi video, with @swarnamalyag
Thank god pictures aren’t x ray images ‘!
Learning and practice are the two pillars of the Arts. There is absolutely no substitute for these. Every day, every time is a new endeavour. It’s a humbling experience. Working on a timeless Tanjore Quartette composition, with the descendant of their family, and the grandson of Pandanallur Meenakshisundaram Pillai, notwithstanding, we all work hard together. Learning and Practice
Rakti is a collaboration between Dr Swarnamalya x Anjana Rajagopalan x Bonny Abraham x Meissam Alinaghiyan It is a collaboration with pleasure as a cultural resource. Pleasure seeking, which in our times often translates to frittering away one’s time, the pursuit of idle nothingness, in the 17th Deccani world was a social disposition. To train the mind through a cosmopolitan education replete with lessons in akhlaq (ethical living), Sharia jurisprudence, developing a searching mind for ilm- knowledge, philosophy, science, poetry, mathematics, languages, music, painting and dance. Through the prism of the 21st century, pre-modern history is made to look like a prologue to today, – punctuated by religious conflict, and with great awareness of only their differences. But the fact is their interaction with the wider world was not through strife and conflict but through poetry and music. Languages and the networks that were formed between people who spoke them across borders, allowed for encounters that for us is almost unthinkable in today’s political contexts. Religion was not the phenomenon upon which people operated. Who was Hindu, who Muslim, who was African, Catholic, Jew, Spanish, English, did not seem to be their pre -occupation. RAKTI is a Multi sensorial Live performance which will tease your senses with dance, music, smells, taste (food) and much more. Premiered at The Serendipity Arts Festival 2023 to a FULL HOUSE, Rakti Is ready to tour the world. 🌈 Concept and Performance: Dr. Swarnamalya 🎵 Music Composition and Vocals: Anjana Rajagopalan 🪕 Oud: Bonny Abraham 🎻 Kemençe: Meissem Alinaghiyan (Iran) Mridangam: Sriganesh Balasubramaniam 🎨 Visual Design: Vetri, Theatre Akku 👗 Costume, Stage Visuals: Radhika Ganesh 💡 Lighting Design: Charles B Show Reel Editing and Creatives- Padmasani Iyengar (co-performer) Co- Performer (Theatre): Nivedita Ravi Camera works: Anurag Singh #pleasure #serendipityartsfestival #multiculturalism #arts #sadir #music #deccani #azerbaijani #bharatanatyam #abhang #sufi #earlymodernhistory #swarnamalya
I’m deeply honoured that I’m featured in the cover of this month’s @international Culture & Art magazine published in Pakistan. And a lovely interview with the most generous @KiranKhan adds so much meaning to this. In travelling to Pakistan I recognised the common aspirations of people on both sides of the border, and experienced the love, admiration and affection of the warm people of Lahore. Art is the binder, the border less language of peace and harmony. Salaam to my friends at the International Culture & Art. Especially Kiran Khan 💜💜💜
I’m deeply honoured that I’m featured in the cover of this month’s @international Culture & Art magazine published in Pakistan. And a lovely interview with the most generous @KiranKhan adds so much meaning to this. In travelling to Pakistan I recognised the common aspirations of people on both sides of the border, and experienced the love, admiration and affection of the warm people of Lahore. Art is the binder, the border less language of peace and harmony. Salaam to my friends at the International Culture & Art. Especially Kiran Khan 💜💜💜
Aniruddha Knight and his ensemble of stellar musicians presented classic pieces from his inherited treasure of dance music – but with a fresh twist of interpretations and performance style unique to his family tradition. The Manodharma transcended boundaries of a performance, immersing both artists and spectators in a dimension where time, space, and reality seamlessly blended, creating an unforgettable experience. #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
On Day 2 at the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival, we explored a rich tapestry of cultures – a vibrant journey through traditions and their arts. Through engaging workshops, invigorating performances, and interactive exhibitions, we were transported to the heart of diverse cultures, weaving together vibrant textures of customs, artistry, and stories that have been passed down through generations. One of the most inspiring aspects of Textures of Traditions was the breaking down of cultural barriers and building bridges of understanding. This event was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, our traditions and stories connect us, and they are the threads that weave the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all the organizers, performers, artists, and attendees who made Textures of Traditions a resounding success. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights from the festival! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #music #dance #exhibition #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
Exactly one week ago on this day, the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival was officially underway. It was the dream of the many people who had poured their hearts into it these past few months. The festival emboldened the idea that “All Cultures – Cultures for All” mattered in this rapidly homogenising cultural landscape. The two days were filled with beautiful emotions, standing in solidarity with artists and celebrating the diverse cultures from our country. Stay tuned as we share excerpts from each of the performances and recount all the moments that left us enchanted! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #dance #music #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
Exactly one week ago on this day, the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival was officially underway. It was the dream of the many people who had poured their hearts into it these past few months. The festival emboldened the idea that “All Cultures – Cultures for All” mattered in this rapidly homogenising cultural landscape. The two days were filled with beautiful emotions, standing in solidarity with artists and celebrating the diverse cultures from our country. Stay tuned as we share excerpts from each of the performances and recount all the moments that left us enchanted! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #dance #music #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
Exactly one week ago on this day, the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival was officially underway. It was the dream of the many people who had poured their hearts into it these past few months. The festival emboldened the idea that “All Cultures – Cultures for All” mattered in this rapidly homogenising cultural landscape. The two days were filled with beautiful emotions, standing in solidarity with artists and celebrating the diverse cultures from our country. Stay tuned as we share excerpts from each of the performances and recount all the moments that left us enchanted! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #dance #music #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
Exactly one week ago on this day, the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival was officially underway. It was the dream of the many people who had poured their hearts into it these past few months. The festival emboldened the idea that “All Cultures – Cultures for All” mattered in this rapidly homogenising cultural landscape. The two days were filled with beautiful emotions, standing in solidarity with artists and celebrating the diverse cultures from our country. Stay tuned as we share excerpts from each of the performances and recount all the moments that left us enchanted! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #dance #music #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
Exactly one week ago on this day, the #TexturesofTraditions culture festival was officially underway. It was the dream of the many people who had poured their hearts into it these past few months. The festival emboldened the idea that “All Cultures – Cultures for All” mattered in this rapidly homogenising cultural landscape. The two days were filled with beautiful emotions, standing in solidarity with artists and celebrating the diverse cultures from our country. Stay tuned as we share excerpts from each of the performances and recount all the moments that left us enchanted! #texturesoftraditions #culture #traditions #festival #arts #performance #dance #music #handicrafts #artisans #chennaievents #chennai #chennaiculturefestival #chennaiartsfestival
