(Photo Jignesh Mistry)
Pune witnessed an artistic confluence of India’s eight classical dance traditions with ‘Ashta Bhava, Ashta Nritya – Mahabharata’, staged at Balgandharva Rangmandir. Presented by the Pune Art and Culture Foundation in collaboration with the PMC’s Cultural Centre Department, the production featured Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Odissi and Sattriya. Vibrant rhythms and storytelling came alive through Kuchipudi (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Performers bring the timeless grace of Odissi to life (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Odissi, Sattariya and Manipuri dance performance (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Eight selected stories, including Lakshagriha, Bhima-Hidimba, Draupadi Cheer Haran, Vishwaroopa Darshan, Abhimanyu and Karna, were presented through the eight primary Bhavas of the Natya Shastra. The highlight was the fusion of distinct dance vocabularies, music, rhythm and expression to explore the Mahabharata as an emotional landscape. Conceptualised by Gayatri Mishra and coordinated by Dr Devika Borthakur, the production brought together one epic, eight emotions and eight dance traditions. A soulful celebration of devotion through Sattriya (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Kathak performance mesmerised with its intricate footwork, graceful spins (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Chief Guest Naval Kishore Ram, Commissioner of Pune Municipal Corporation, Manjusha Nagpur, Mayor of Pune and Gayatri Mishra felicitating Sucheta Bhide Chapekar(Photo Jignesh Mistry) This beautiful Bharatnatyam recital left Punekars spellbound (Photo Jignesh Mistry) An elegant Mohiniyattam performance (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Manipuri dancers showcase the quiet elegance of rhythm, grace and tradition (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Kathakali performers captivate with their dramatic expressions and powerful presence (Photo Jignesh Mistry) Looking for trusted parenting advice? Follow TOI Parenting Circle on Instagram for expert guidance, relatable stories, and practical tips delivered every day.
