Thematic festivals have, over the years, found a special place among rasikas and artistes since it offers newer ways to view and explore familiar subjects.  It is from this perspective that Natyarangam has been, for the past 27 years, curating the annual Bharatham festival. It gives dancers the freedom to work around a chosen theme and present an entire performance. Most often their efforts are supported by research scholar and professional musicians.

This year, Natyarangam will focus on Pancha Bhootham, which will bring together Bharatanatyam dancers, Carnatic musicians and research scholar Dr. Sudha Seshayyan to present choreographic pieces on the five elements  — Prithvi (Earth), Apah (Water), Agni (Fire), Vayu (Air) and Akasa (Sky). 

Talking about working on Apah (water) dancer Shweta Prachande says, “The Thales philosophy helps me understand how water, which is crucial for sustenance, assumes different forms as solid, liquid and vapour. While I did a deep dive into this element, I realised how closely it connects to our life’s journey”.  

Carnatic musician Rithvik Raja, who is working with wife Shweta on the concept says, “More than simply representing water through sound, it was fascinating to see how music and movement seamlessly come together.” 

Dancer K. Sarveshan, who presents Prithivi, shares that the creative process helped him reimagine the Pancha Boothas for the contemporary audience. “Collaborating with senior vocalist Amritha Murali has been an incredibly enriching and rewarding journey.”

Dancer Navia Natarajan, describes it as an introspective journey. Through her performance she will highlight how Agni (fire) revealed itself though its many layers, making her understand better its significance.

The festival will reiterate the interconnectedness between art and Nature.