We can’t believe half a year is gone and what a year it has been – filled with a renewed sense of promise, hope and the possibility of live performances, the joy of meeting people, in-person, sharing and soaking in work, collectively.
We, at Apsaras Arts, are conscious of the legacy of the arts while we explore the possibility of finding a sense of the inventive within it. For us, the arts have been a liberating journey, allowing us to find space, freedom and ways to express the world around us through this beautiful dance form that we now call Bharatanatyam.
This edition, we raise a toast to the idea of arts conservation as our Cover Story features two extremely talented young artistes, Mahati Kannan and Manasvini Ramachandran, who are dancers, arts and heritage conservationists and curators. In a Q & A format, the duo share their personal stories, interest and journey in working with the tangible and intangible in the arts.
Our Interview section covers a crisp interview with Bharatanatyam artiste, Parvathi Ravi Ghantasala, an artiste based in Chennai, with whom, we at Apsaras Arts, share a special connection with.
In our #iamayoungdancer section, Janani Arunkumar from Singapore and Kavya Ganesh from Chennai, exchange notes on all things that matter to the world of young dancers. A conversation between these two young dancers is important because it allows us insights into what and how the future of dance is poised to be.
Our Point of View section features Mohinittam exponent, Dr Tara Rajkumar, who sheds light on the journey of Mohiniattam but also leaves us feeling a sense of hope and positivity for its overall future.
Work-in-Process in this edition is an interview with Artistic Director, Aravinth Kumarasamy of Apsaras Arts where he deep dives into the creative process of Amara, a work that premiered in Singapore, recently.
In our Book Banter section, acclaimed Bharatanatyam artiste and the senior-most disciple of Dr Kanak Rele, Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam exponent, Deepak Mazumdar, shares his thoughts on Dr Rele’s new book, Me and my Mohini Attam.
Travel Diaries this edition is anchored by Chandigarh-based lighting designer, Gyandev Singh who brings to life his experience of touring Parama Padam through cities and the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka
And finally, In-Sights allows us insights into our own return to India, the response we received and the strong sense of connection we share with Chennai, and India, at large.
We have a hectic few months ahead of us and we are happily busy with our work.
We would love to hear your feedback about Aavartana . what would you like to see in it? How can we make it better for you? Do send in your suggestions and feedback to aavartana@apsarasarts.com
