Dancer Revives 8th-Century Poet-Saint Andal's Defiant Spirit

In August 2025, dancer-choreographer Anita Ratnam is bringing her dance-drama 'Naachiyaar Next' to Pune, celebrating the life and legacy of the 8th-century Tamil poet-saint Andal. Ratnam is challenging the traditional portrayal of Andal as a sweet, devoted figure, instead showcasing her defiant side.

Andal, also known as Godhai and Naachiyar, is the only female among the twelve Alvar saints of the Tamil Vaishnavite tradition. While she is renowned for her devotional poems sung during the annual 30-day tradition in December, Ratnam wants to highlight Andal's more complex emotions. The dancer-choreographer says Andal accused Krishna of being a thief, liar, and coward for not responding to her devotion, a side of the saint often overlooked.

Ratnam's script for 'Naachiyaar Next' aims to recover this emotional range, from Andal's joy and mischief to her anguish and obsession. The dance-drama has been performed 23 times across India, resonating with audiences who are moved by Andal's powerful story. Ratnam believes Andal's simple Tamil language and use of English have helped the performance connect with diverse audiences.

For Ratnam, 'Naachiyaar Next' is a "long love letter that never got a reply," showcasing Andal in all her might - the saint, the poet, and the young girl who dared to love without restraint. The performance in Pune is the latest stop on the dance-drama's tour, as Ratnam continues to revive the defiant spirit of this 8th-century icon.