Mumbai audiences are set for an enriching cultural experience as acclaimed dancer and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Anita Ratnam presents her thought-provoking dance-theatre production, Naachiyar Next, at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) on March 28, 2025. This powerful performance pays tribute to Andal, the 7th-century Tamil mystic poet and one of India’s earliest feminist voices.
A Bold Retelling of Andal’s Story
With over five decades of experience and performances in 36 countries, Anita Ratnam has redefined classical dance for modern audiences. Trained in bharatanatyam, mohiniattam, and kathakali, she blends these forms into her signature Neo-Bharatam style—a contemporary and expressive dance language. Naachiyar Next is her fifth production inspired by Andal, delving into the poet’s raw emotions, unfulfilled love for Krishna, and ultimate transformation into divinity.
“This version explores Andal’s sadness, her longing, and her final moments before becoming one with the object of her devotion,” Anita explains. While Meera Bai is widely recognized, Andal’s bold expressions of desire and spiritual love remain lesser known. “It’s time she stepped out of the shadows,” she adds.
A Visual and Musical Masterpiece
The production’s visual appeal is enhanced by costume designer and textile historian Sandhya Raman, who has drawn inspiration from the Saurashtrian weavers of Tamil Nadu. The outfits reflect Andal’s rich cultural heritage, adding depth to the performance.
Anita’s commitment to amplifying female narratives extends to the music, which features an all-female ensemble, including vocalists, veena players, and a rare female percussionist. The soundtrack blends traditional Tamil verses with English translations, making Andal’s poetry accessible while preserving its spiritual essence.
While Anita once portrayed Andal herself, this time she steps into the role of the storyteller and inner voice. “Twenty years ago, I embodied Andal on stage. Today, I shape her story as a narrator, allowing a younger dancer to bring her physical form to life,” she shares. This transition creates a bridge between the ancient and the contemporary, offering audiences a fresh perspective on Andal’s enduring legacy.
Following successful performances in Chennai, Bengaluru, New Delhi, and Puducherry, Naachiyar Next will also tour Pune, Kolkata, and Coimbatore.
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