Critical Histories, Aesthetics, and New Political Futures

This two-day event, consisting of lectures and discussion, examines key issues of power and representation in the making of modern Bharatanatyam. Participants will engage in crucial conversations around a range of issues including caste and Brahminic power, colonial and postcolonial histories, ethno-nationalism, and somatic politics in contemporary India. Our goal is to disseminate evidence-based histories for Bharatanatyam, create discussions around caste-based power and performance, and think critically about equitable futures for the arts of South India. 

Preregistration is required for this workshop and participants must commit to attending all sessions. No on-site registration. Participants must preregister before December 18, 2024. Lunch and coffee will be provided. Participants must commit to attending both days. Participants will be selected based on their responses to questions on the registration form.

Day 1 | Friday, Dec 27

9:30am: Welcome and Introductions

10:00am – 12:00pm: Lecture

Bharatanatyam: Critical Histories, Power, and Politics

Professor Davesh Soneji (University of Pennsylvania)

12:00pm – 1:00pm: Lunch

1:00pm – 3:00pm: Lecture and Q & A

Caste: Servitude, Labor, and the Question of Bharatanatyam’s Historical Narrative

Professor Davesh Soneji (University of Pennsylvania)

3:00pm – 3:30pm: Coffee Break

3:30pm-5:30pm: Group Discussion

History, Politics, Caste, and Religion

Led by Nrithya Pillai and Rituparna Pal

Day 2 | Saturday, Dec 28

10:00am – 12:00pm: Lecture

Aesthetic Questions in Modern Bharatanatyam: Sources of Authority, Casteist Taste Habits, and the Politics of Performance

Professor Davesh Soneji (University of Pennsylvania)

12:00pm – 1:00pm: Video Commentary

Professor Davesh Soneji (University of Pennsylvania)

1:00pm – 2:00pm: Lunch

2:00pm – 3:00pm: Video Commentary

Nrithya Pillai

3:00pm – 4:30pm: Group Discussion

Aesthetic Practice and Imagining New Futures

Led by Nrithya Pillai and Rituparna Pal

4:30pm – 5:30pm: Coffee and Informal Conversation