May 20 2025 to May 20 2025 7 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

Mānushī – On a Quest traces the spiritual and emotional journeys of four extraordinary women: the elusive River Saraswathi, the devoted Meerabai, the yearning mother Devaki, and the mystic poet Akka Mahadevi. Rooted in literature, poetry, and deep personal exploration, this Bharatanatyam solo presentation is the culmination of over two years of immersive research and creative engagement.

The performance opens with the mystical tale of Saraswathi, inspired by the book The Lost River, exploring whether the river still flows—physically and spiritually. We then journey with Meerabai, who seeks her beloved Krishna through soulful bhajans marked by longing, devotion, and unanswered questions. Devaki’s poignant voice follows, reflecting on the joys of motherhood she never fully experienced and her yearning to reclaim lost moments with her son, Krishna. The production concludes with Akka Mahadevi, whose powerful Vachanas guide us on a quest for liberation, echoing the eternal human desire for union and truth.

Each piece is supported by evocative compositions, guided by literary scholars, and brought to life through thoughtful choreography.

Performer

Radhika Shetty
Bharatanatyam
Radhika Shetty is a dynamic and soulful Bharatanatyam artiste, known for her expressive performances and deep commitment to the classical arts. Trained initially by Vidushi Smt. Sharadamani Shekhar in Mangaluru, she completed her Rangapravesha under Guru Smt. Padmini Ramachandran (Natyapriya, Bengaluru) and further honed her craft under Gurus Smt. Rama Vaidyanathan and Smt. Bragha Bessell.

A graded artiste of Doordarshan Bengaluru and empanelled with SPICMACAY, Radhika has performed and conducted workshops across India, Europe, and the USA. Her ability to bring characters to life on stage has earned her titles such as Best Dancer by Parthasarathy Sabha (2018) and Kala Surabhi by UVSA Bengaluru (2023).

Radhika is the founder of Nrityaangan, a Mangaluru-based trust dedicated to teaching Bharatanatyam and curating festivals, seminars, and workshops. With nearly 40 events over the past decade, Nrityaangan received the Samskara Bharati Kala Puraskara 2022 for its contributions to the arts.

Through her performances and pedagogy, Radhika continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of classical dancers.