Poet Anupama Raju and Bharatanatyam exponent Rajashree Warrier are set to redefine classical emotions in their collaborative production, 'NINE — Our Circle of Lines', at the Bengaluru Poetry Festival.

Key Takeaways

  • 'NINE — Our Circle of Lines' is a groundbreaking blend of poetry and dance.
  • The production explores the 'Navarasa' (nine emotions) through a modern lens.
  • It will be staged at the Bengaluru Poetry Festival on August 1.
  • The collaboration features original music including violin, mridangam, and harp.

In a stunning convergence of literary and performing arts, poet Anupama Raju and renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Rajashree Warrier are bringing their collaborative masterpiece, 'NINE — Our Circle of Lines', to the stage. This production seeks to reinterpret the classical Navarasa (nine emotions) from Bharata Muni’s Natyashastra, moving beyond traditional boundaries to create a contemporary dialogue between words and movement.

The production is not merely a performance but a rhythmic conversation. While Anupama recites verses that explore complex human emotions, Rajashree translates these linguistic nuances into physical movements. Unlike conventional Bharatanatyam, which often treats structure as a rigid form, Rajashree utilizes the classical language to create a new, fluid mould of expression.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this collaboration represents a significant shift in how classical Indian arts are being preserved and evolved. By merging the intellectual depth of poetry with the physical storytelling of dance, the duo is reaching a modern audience that seeks layered, multi-sensory experiences. The inclusion of diverse instruments like the mridangam, harp, and mizhavu further elevates the production from a simple dance recital to a complete sonic experience.

"It is like a dialogue between us, with me using words and Rajashree using movements," says Anupama Raju.

The journey of 'NINE' began during the pandemic, fueled by a shared connection over the profound emotions embedded in Raju's poetry. Having successfully premiered at the Kerala Literary Festival and in Kolkata, the production now heads to the Bengaluru Poetry Festival, aiming to engage viewers who appreciate the intricate layers of art and emotion.

Historical Background

The concept of Navarasa dates back thousands of years to the Natyashastra, the foundational treatise on Indian performing arts. While the essence of these emotions remains timeless, productions like 'NINE' are essential for keeping the tradition relevant in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

Did You Know?: The title 'NINE' refers to the circular nature of emotions and the 'lines' of poetry and movement that exist within that cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is the core theme of the production?
Answer: The production explores the nine human emotions (Navarasa) through a fusion of poetry and dance.

Question 2: Where can people watch this performance?
Answer: The production will be staged at the Bengaluru Poetry Festival on August 1.