Head to this performance to learn about the history and philosophy of Sattriya

Prateesha Suresh performs Sattriya

In another step to celebrate and make the Indian classical dance form of Sattriya known, Mumbai-based dancer Prateesha Suresh will conduct a lecture and demonstration of the dance form at Cymroza Art Gallery tomorrow evening, curated by Dr Prachi Jariwala, renowned Odissi dancer and Ancient Indian Culture scholar. Organised by the Museum Society of Mumbai, the presentation will move into a gallery space for the first time, in an intimate experience for viewers as Suresh unfolds the history and philosophy of Sattriya.

The dance form which is rooted in Assam was visualised and structured by polymath and Vaishnava saint Mahapurusha Sankaradeva in the fifteenth century to propagate neo-Vaishnavism or the Vaishnava faith. Through his efforts, the dance form was practised and preserved in monasteries called Sattras, especially by celibate monks. Suresh notes, "Sankaradeva gave us the Bhagavata Purana in a lucid manner, where one could understand it
through performance."

Dr Prachi Jariwala holds an Odissi pose

"Post-Independence, there were only seven dance forms that were recognised in the classical genre. It was only in 2000 that Sattriya was included as the eighth style. Since it was a late entry into the classical genre, not much was known about it. This lecture cum demonstration is the perfect space to explore the dance form," Dr Jariwala shares.

The presentation will uncover the journey of Sattriya including how it evolved, the art that influenced it, and the person behind the form. Along with technical aspects like dance movements, hand gestures, expressions and footwork, Suresh will also highlight paintings, instruments that accompany the dance, and costumes worn which includes attire for female and male performers - ghuri, chadar and kanchi (for female performers) and dhoti, chadar and paguri (for male performers).

Suresh adds, "All forms of art capture the culture that was contemporary to its time. The fabric, whether through dance, paintings, weaving, sculpture and art, is woven around the thoughts, philosophy and lifestyle of a particular time. What is depicted in dance is also depicted in the art and helps to paint a more complete picture of that time and region. This is why the presentation will include slides on paintings, along with the philosophy behind and the demonstrations of the dance form."

Occupying a space of art, Dr Jariwala reveals plans to display manuscripts, costume pieces and other artefacts associated with the dance form in the foyer of the gallery.

On November 22; 5.30 pm onwards
At Cymroza Art Gallery, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Breach Candy.
Free