Bharatanatyam showcase with Viraja & Shyamjith Kiran. In-person

For the first time in Hawai`i nei, the Still and Moving Center presents Viraja and Shyamjith Kiran.

Viraja Mandhre & Shyamjith Kiran are a dynamic dancer couple trained in Bharatanatyam Indian Classical Dance from the illustrious Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai. Both of them have previously been a part of the Kalakshetra repertory company taking up major roles and also taught as part time faculty at their alma mater. They have had the rich experience of working with legends in their field like the Dhananjayans and Leela Samson. The duo has also been trained in Kathakali under their guru Sadanam Balakrishnan. Involvement with these gurus, Kalakshetra and their independent pursuits has enabled them to perform at various prestigious venues world over. Some of their critically acclaimed works include Pareekshana, Mudivil Oru Aarambam, Svam, Aham, Rekha, Eeram and Samaagati.

Under the auspicious gaze of Shiva Nataraja, they will present a one-of-a-kind Bharatanatyam showcase, capturing both the history and the zeitgeist of this expressive, rhythmic dance form. Their choreographies explore more traditional themes from Hindu mythology and legends, while also bringing holistic reflection to the arts spaces of today. The performance weekend will include a general audience workshop for those interested in exploring the forms, stories, and essences of Indian classical dance. No experience or training is required, and the workshop will be accessible to all ages and movement levels.

If you do have some training in Bharatanatyam, there will also be closed workshops for those with Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced levels of experience. For more information, please contact janani.laks@gmail.com

A Message from Viraja and Shyamjith:

Attainment is not as important as longing to attain. Through rigor and learning, we experience longing itself and it unfolds new treasures as we seek our paths. Along the way, it is the people we meet, the places we travel to, and the laughter we share, that define and redefine our ideas of success and failure. We create because we do not want to be complacent. Allowing the mind to wander and enjoying uncertainty as it finds form and expression. As performers, choreographers and teachers we are constantly aware that we are part of a continuum. The essence of what we have received needs to be shared.