Back in 1997, as a student at the Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, I embarked on a unique project titled Nari. This video project, created under the guidance of Guru Sharon Lowen—one of India's most respected classical dance performers—was a turning point for me as a budding filmmaker. Sharon Lowen’s decision to support this student endeavour was a rare privilege, and her presence, artistry, and storytelling brought a distinctive richness to the project.
The Making of Nari and the Dance of Life
Nari was envisioned as a dance drama that captured the essence of a village woman's life in Odisha, India. The dance portrayed the daily routines, chores, and moments of joy of an ordinary village woman. Guru Sharon Lowen, known for her expertise in Manipuri and Odissi dance forms, choreographed and performed in this piece, incorporating elements of Mayurbhanj Chhau—a unique folk dance of Odisha. The dance form of Mayurbhanj Chhau is notable for its maskless performance style, blending the vigorous ‘Taandava’ and the gentle ‘Laasya’ elements, creating a dynamic narrative expression.
Her choreography drew upon the traditional steps and movements of Mayurbhanj Chhau, yet she employed them in their literal contexts—depicting everyday tasks such as picking up cow dung, sprinkling water, and preparing food. This approach brought authenticity and an engaging simplicity to the dance, making it relatable and culturally immersive. The narrative unfolded in three parts, focusing on the establishment of character, the building of mood, and culminating in a joyful climax, reflecting the happiness of the woman with her child.
Learning from a Guru and Understanding Cultural Narratives
Working with Guru Sharon Lowen was an unforgettable experience. As someone passionate about understanding the varied aspects of culture and dance, her insights were invaluable. She not only brought her dance expertise to the project but also shared her understanding of the cultural and historical contexts behind the dances, emphasising how these art forms have evolved and are preserved through generations. Her involvement helped me realise the power of film and video as mediums to promote, preserve, and archive traditional heritage dance forms.
The Relevance of Documenting Cultural Heritage
The experience of creating Nari reinforced the importance of documenting cultural heritage. As a student filmmaker, I was inspired to see how dance could be used to tell stories that are both specific to a community and universally human. This project stressed on the significance of preserving cultural expressions in their authentic forms, ensuring that they are not lost in the face of modernisation.
Now, as I continue my work exploring cultural issues, particularly safeguarding cultural forms like Chhau and Natua and other intangible cultural heritages, I recognise the enduring impact of projects like Nari. They remind us that art and culture are powerful tools for understanding our world, strengthening dialogue, and bridging cultural divides. Looking back, Nari was more than just a student project—it was an early exploration into how visual storytelling could serve as a vehicle for cultural preservation and promotion. It continues to inspire me in my journey as a filmmaker and a scholar, committed to bringing such narratives to the forefront.
Comments