Sonal Mansingh's 'Katha Siya Ram Ki' mesmerizes Bhopal

Padma Vibhushan Sonal Mansingh's production, 'Katha Siya Ram Ki,' recently enchanted audiences in Bhopal with its unique presentation of the Ramayana. Performed by artistes of Shri Kamakhya Kalapeeth under Bharat Bhavan's Mahima series, the dance-theatre piece eschewed grandeur for a more intimate, meditative experience.

Mansingh's direction and choreography seamlessly integrated episodes from the epic into an emotional narrative. The performance traced Ram's life from birth to his triumph, emphasizing the underlying emotions and moral imagination central to Indian civilization. The production highlighted subtle expressions and postures, turning classical dance into a language of feeling.

Live music, traditional ragas, and spoken word merged with movement, complemented by nuanced lighting and rich costumes. A particularly moving segment, the 'Sankatmochan Hanumanashtak,' showcased devotion through vigorous movement and expressive abhinaya. The performance concluded leaving the audience in silent reflection before applause.