It’s time to celebrate the ideologies of Gandhi and explore the virtues of the man again. Geeta Chandran is all set to present a dance-theatre in the Capital titled 'Gandhi: Wrap and Weft’. The dance-theatre will explore key concepts of Gandhi's philosophies in the form of a performance on stage that comprises of classical Bharatanatyam moves, blended with contemporary dance forms.
Chandran will explore Gandhi’s concepts of religious tolerance, celibacy, satyagraha, ahimsa, casteism and khadi in a one-hour solo performance. The artiste through her dance will show how the concept of religious unity is connected to the deep reliance on spirituality that Gandhi propagated throughout his life. Similarly, the concept of celibacy as practiced by Gandhi, was an attempt to set aside various desire, while fulfilling responsibilities of a householder and husband.
The theme of satyagrah is inspired by Gandhi's prison writings and public complaints and movements like the Dandi march and the civil disobedience movement. It depicts the courage to stand up for truth.
The core idea of ahimsa, the power to fight evil without violence, will also feature in Chandran's performance. The dance-drama addresses Gandhi's concepts of turning the other cheek as a peace offering, as well as the violence inflicted on the self through radical protests such as hunger strikes.
Themes of caste and shram, reformations of the past that Gandhi sought regarding dignity and rights of labour, as well as the atrocities of caste oppression that still continue in today’s society will also be incorporated in this interpretation of Gandhi's life.
Any exploration of Gandhi’s life and beliefs is incomplete without a mention of Khadi. Chandran’s performance will examine his belief in ecological sustainability and balance. Chandran uses thread as a metaphor for the bonds in which Gandhi wanted to unite the nation. The six concepts interpreted through her performance will provide a new insight into Gandhis views.