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Achintya – Beyond Perception
An Exploration of Truth through Dance
Performer
Achintya – Beyond Perception is a solo dance production exploring the concept of truth and humanity’s ongoing pursuit of it. Performed by Deeksha Kumar, the production combines Bharatanatyam with storytelling to examine the philosophical aspects of truth.
The performance features a series of movements, each representing different facets of truth – from its elusive nature to the clarity it brings when understood. The choreography reflects the complex journey of seeking truth, with movements symbolizing the struggle and eventual enlightenment of this quest.
In one section of Achintya – Beyond Perception, the imagery of sand is used to convey the philosophy of non-duality and the elusive nature of truth. Seated in front of a box of sand, the performer holds the grains in their hands, allowing them to slip through their fingers to symbolise the transient and ever-changing nature of truth. Through a sequence, two separate piles of sand are created, only to be merged into a single pile, visually representing the concept of non-duality — the ultimate realisation that all is one. This interaction with sand underscores the performance’s exploration of truth and unity.
Original music, blending classical and modern elements, underscores the performance and enhances its emotional depth. The score integrates traditional instruments with contemporary sounds, creating an auditory experience that mirrors the dancer’s journey. The music’s shifts and harmonies amplify the emotional intensity, guiding the audience through a sensory experience.
Achintya – Beyond Perception is a dance that encourages audiences to reflect on their own journeys towards truth. This production aims to be a thought-provoking and visually engaging experience that resonates with viewers long after the final bow.
Supported by:
Performer
Deeksha Kumar
Deeksha Kumar is a Bharatanatyam dancer with over 22 years of experience. A student of the late Natya Vidushi Prof. Jayaa, she had her professional debut in 2012. As the Creative Director of the Jayaa Foundation for the Promotion of Performing Arts since 2014, she has trained many students in Bharatanatyam and mentored six through their professional solo performances.
Deeksha has a Master’s in Professional Practice with a specialisation in Dance from Middlesex University, London. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Psychology from Karnataka State Open University. Her journey is punctuated by prestigious honors, including the Young Artists Scholarship in Bharatanatyam from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the State Government Scholarship in Bharatanatyam bestowed by the Sangeeta Nrithya Academy, Karnataka.
Deeksha Kumar’s choreographic works blend tradition with innovation. In “Bala Ramayana,” presented at a dance festival organised by the Jayaa Foundation, she weaved the epic tale of Ramayana into a narrative tailored for children. “Abhisaar,” a group choreography crafted at the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography and “Maenad,” a solo contemporary movement-based choreography, are some of her other choreographed pieces.
