Navarathri
2025

She is our mother and daughter, She is delicate and fierce. She can be dark and yet illuminate the unseen.

Let’s celebrate her!

PROGRAM NOTES

Odissi : Lathika and Mahamaya

Choreographed by Bijayini Satpathy


and presented by

Ariaki Dandawate and Malavika Singh

LATHIKA

Lathika symbolizes a graceful, winding tendril that turns from the gentle curvilinear lyricism of a creeper into a beautiful vine. The choreography, by Odissi pioneer Guru Pankaj Charan Das, with its intricate work and movement patterns that develop like clusters of flowers into a beautiful vine epitomizes the quintessential sensuality at Odissi's core. The music by Balakrishna Das Ensemble has been reimagined by Guru Bijayini Satpathy. 



MAHAMAYA

Bijayini Satpathy Dance Collective's second dance, "Mahamaya", choreographed by her, refers to the ever-dissolving illusion of creation symbolized by the female deity, Mahamaya -- At once, benevolent and fiercely protective. The form of this dance, is that of an auspicious conclusion to an Odissi recital called "Moksha" intended to liberate us all into an elated state of deep meditation.

Bharatanatyam : Akhilandeswari

Choreographed and presented by

Sri Thina Subramaniam

Akhilandeshwari, She, the one well-versed in the Agamas, is invoked as protector and guide. Her nature, pure and sublime, pervades all the worlds. Dark-complexioned and radiant, she is the very repository of all the arts. She is Sharada, daughter of Himavan and bestower of boundless boons. Extolled through raga Dvijaavanti, she delights in the rhythms of jhalli, maddala, and jarjhara, conferring supreme wisdom upon her devotees through music and devotion.

Ragam Dvijaanvanti | Talam Adhi
Composed by : Muttuswaamy Dikshitar

Bharatanatyam : Nalinakanthi Jathiswaram

Choreographed by Sri Thina Subramaniam

and presented by

Sneha Subramaniam, Pavitra Kumar and Shreya Ramesh

A Jathiswaram is a pure dance composition in Bharatanatyam, celebrated for its intricate rhythmic patterns and graceful movements without any narrative. Set in the lively raga Nalinakanthi, this piece highlights the dancer’s command over rhythm, precision, and spatial design. Through its vibrant choreography, the Nalinakanthi Jathiswaram showcases the harmony of melody and movement, offering audiences a glimpse into the joyous, abstract beauty of Bharatanatyam.

Ragam Nalinakanthi | Talam Thrisra Adhi
Composed by : Kanagamani Vijayalakhmi

Kuchipudi : Desh Thillana

Choreographed by Yamini Kalluri

and presented by

Arohi Dandawate, Akhila Ballari, Shruthi Ailneni, Sushma Gurram and Sunayana Jampanaboyana, young dancers of Kritya Dance Ensemble.

A Thillana is a joyous and rhythmically vibrant finale in the repertoire, celebrated for its intricate footwork, lively patterns, and lyrical grace. Set in the evocative raga Desh, this Thillana sparkles with playful rhythms and flowing movements, showcasing both precision and exuberance. Beyond its technical brilliance, the composition turns devotional, offering praise to Lord Murugan — the youthful deity of wisdom, courage, and divine knowledge. Murugan is revered as a protector and guide, the remover of obstacles, and the granter of clarity to seekers. In this Desh Thillana, his spirit infuses the dance with radiance, leaving audiences uplifted by both its artistry and its sacred resonance.

Together, these dancers bring a unique blend of professional expertise and artistic dedication, embodying Kritya’s mission to shape Kuchipudi practitioners who are not only technically rigorous but also intellectually and creatively expansive.

Ragam Desh | Adhi Thalam

Garba : Nagar Nandji Na Lal

Choreographed by Jeevika Bhat

and presented by

Sarita Padukone, Divya Ramamurthy, and Ami Shah

Originating from Gujarat, Garba is a vibrant folk dance traditionally performed in a circle to honor the Goddess during Navaratri. Dancers move rhythmically with claps and spins, creating a collective celebration of energy and devotion. This performance captures Garba’s joyful spirit, inviting audiences into its dynamic rhythm and communal joy.

ARTIST BIOS