Utkarsh – Demystifying Indian Dance
Explore the richness of Bharatanatyam through *Varṇam – Mother of Manodharma*, a lecture-demonstration by renowned dancer Nandini Ramani. Part of NCPA’s Utkarsh series, the session explores the technical, musical and expressive elements of this important classical dance composition.
8 days ago
Utkarsh – Demystifying Indian Dance
The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai, presents Utkarsh – Demystifying Indian Dance, an interactive lecture-demonstration series designed to introduce audiences to the history, techniques, music and distinctive features of Indian classical dance.
The November edition features renowned Bharatanatyam exponent, teacher and dance critic Nandini Ramani, who will present “Varṇam – Mother of Manodharma.”
Varṇam is one of the central and most significant components of Bharatanatyam. It brings together nṛitta (pure dance and rhythmic movement) and abhinaya (expressive storytelling), combining technical precision with melody, emotion and interpretation. The session explores how these elements work together to create a comprehensive expression of a raga and its artistic possibilities.
Nandini Ramani trained under T. Balasarawati and K. Ganesan and also studied Carnatic vocal music under Professor B. Krishnamoorthy, with specialised training under T. Mukta. She has performed extensively in India and internationally and has received several honours, including the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Natya Padma Award from Brahma Gana Sabha.
Through this presentation, audiences can gain a deeper understanding of Bharatanatyam’s artistic vocabulary and the relationship between movement, music and expression.
Event Details
Date: 20 November 2026
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Godrej Dance Theatre, NCPA, Mumbai
Topic: Varṇam – Mother of Manodharma
Presenter: Nandini Ramani
Format: Lecture demonstration
Entry: Free, on a first-come, first-served basis
Age Limit: 6+
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