Leela Tandavam: The Power of Dance to Tell Stories and inspire.

We often discuss which God( Hari or Hara) is more powerful and fight over it. That is so human of us, without looking at the bigger picture. This show gave us an absorbing and entertaining narration of the different stories which are actually life lessons in disguise.

Hari, the preserver, represents Vishnu - compassion, protection and the sustaining force of life. Hara, the transformer, represents Shiva- dissolution, renewal and the power to transform. Together, Hari and Hara represent the beautiful idea that preservation and transformation are not opposites, but two essential forces of existence.

What stayed with me most was the way the stories were chosen to perform the different dances all ranging from being energetic and graceful to emoting in stillness. From the grandeur of Hari and Hara to the devoted stories of Hanuman, Sowbhagya Lakshmi and the divine leelas. Rudra, Bholanath, Shiva Shakti versions all got a piece. My idea of shiva was redefined and I did not even know about Ananda Tandavam before this. I had to do my fair share of reading after coming back home. That is a true mark of a great production.

Not for the first time, I found a classical dance presentation so relatable. This is something Maitri Rao and her team at Shivansh School of Arts have done with their previous shows as well but this time even better. The ability to take a dance form like Bharatanatyam and make it accessible through storytelling is truly special. It wasn't just something to watch - the stories, emotions, narration and characters made it feel alive and easy to connect with. I had a definite tear in my eye with all that music, narration and dance. It was quite moving.

Not to forget the live singing and the band were an exceptional add on. The fact that the music and singing was performed LIVE added an entirely different energy to the evening. The singing and music were top shelf stuff. The way exceptional talent was chosen deserves so much appreciation.

Deep down , India is slowly reclaiming and reconnecting with its cultural identity. Music, dance and storytelling have an important role to play in that journey. These are among the few things that can bring people from different generations and backgrounds together. Many of the stories may be mythological, but the art forms, traditions and the discipline of learning them are generational, and they offer young people a wonderful path towards patience, practice, focus and personal discipline. Something our nation needs in the years to come.

A huge appreciation to Maitri Rao, the Art Director, for bringing together such a rich and colourful showcase. To blow your mind, she is a new mom and her baby hadn't even turned one before this show! I'm just imagining the ideation, the effort in coordinating different aspects, the balance and the support she must have had to present this show to us. I had sent a message to her she had our love but with this show she has our respect.

And not to forget the absolute superstar of the day, Paridhi Mangalampalli. A 10 year old charming genius who took on the storytelling and hosting duties for the day. Yes, she held everyone's attention in between the dances! Her confidence and clarity could easily match one of the most seasoned hosts. Watching someone so young carry the narrative and connect the different parts of the show was truly delightful. She danced at the end too. What a joy to watch her. I wish to meet her when she is in Hyderabad next, just to observe the little one.

All this being said about the production values, the talent selection, This show  was a reminder that traditional art can be presented with contemporary energy without losing its soul. Atleast that is how I find art being most effective.

And then there was Siraj, an architect and a family friend of the hosts, who was one of the main sponsors of the show. I was talking to him at the end of the show and he said  as the owner of an interior designing firm, he believes in investing in good art and architecture. That deserves a special mention.

Art forms like these need encouragement, not just through our presence or by buying tickets, but by helping them stay relevant and alive. That is how we inspire the children of tomorrow to learn, carry forward and evolve these art forms for generations to come.( Totally the opposite effect of Doom scrolling which numbs our senses)

Leela Tandavam was not just a performance. It was a beautiful reminder that our cultural traditions can still bring us together, inspire us start deeper conversations and make us feel remarkably relevant today. 

Have any interesting Hari-Hara stories that i should read let me know :)

Watch out for pictures and videos on @Sooperclicks

Check out Shivansh school of Arts also on Instagram and

@StoriesbyParidhi for the little charmer.