Interludes are a smooth transition from the day-long intense discussions into enjoyable evenings of cultural programmes.
This year’s Interludes include performances by:
Finding Feet
by Dark Vibe Society
🗓 26th January 2024
⏱5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Venue: Dunbar Hall, District 150
Hyderabad, a city thrumming with the cadence of a thousand stories, becomes the stage for a unique exploration of movement in “Finding Feet.” Curated by Vaibhav Kumar Modi, this performance line-up features contemporary and unconventional artists who redefine the language of dance. These are not mere performers; they are agents of change, their bodies pulsing with the stories of Hyderabad, a city that has long been a crucible of diversity, where people, art, culture, and tongues weave a vibrant tapestry. “Finding Feet” is not just a showcase of talent; it’s a conversation. It’s a dialogue between tradition and innovation, between stillness and dynamism, between the whispered intimacy of a solo act and the electrifying synergy of an ensemble. Each artist brings their own distinct vocabulary to the stage, their movements echoing the multifaceted spirit of Hyderabad itself. But “Finding Feet” is more than just movement. It’s a tapestry woven with sound, light, and storytelling.
Vaibhav Kumar Modi – Kathak: (10 minutes)
After a long and successful professional career, Vaibhav embarked on a passionate journey into the world of dance. Undeterred by professional and personal challenges, he remained dedicated to Kathak deftly balancing office hours and dance classes. His perseverance paid off and his performances became pivotal moments of self-acceptance, catalysed by his unwavering dedication to dance. His journey intersected with luminaries of Kathak, including the revered Pandit Birju Maharaj. Evolving from an advocate of inclusivity, he transformed into a proponent of authentic expression and cultural diversity, showcasing the transformative power of art. He is the curator of Finding Feet and also one of the performers.
Transgender Folk Performance – Telangana Folk (7 minutes)
A traditional folk dance presented by a group of transgender women from tribal communities of Telangana. These artists, led by the inspiring Prem Leela, a transgender entrepreneur with an established Jute Bag business, have performed on numerous stages. Through their art, they carry the pride of being transgender and advocate for change, showcasing the transformative power of their performances.
The Inner Alchemy with Komet (15 minutes)
Inner Alchemy is a group of singers, a rapper and a poet. The group is led by Harsha Maheshwari, a city-based artist and performer who has enthralled audiences with dance workshops and festivals. He leads a Rap, Body Movement, and Hip-Hop fusion group, known for the group’s unique take on storytelling through dance. This 15-minute performance, a mesmerising blend of diverse art forms, is a product of his collaboration with local artists. Artists Include: Prozach.wav, Nitesh Rana, Meghana Koppala, Paridhi Bihani, Harsha Maheshwari.
Abhijit Aji – Contemporary (10 minutes)
Abhijit, a versatile artist originally from Kerala and now based in Hyderabad, seamlessly blends Indian and Western classical dance forms into contemporary expressions. As a student and performer, Abhijit’s innovative choreography has graced many stages. In a 10-minute fusion piece, he explores Gender Stereotypes, demonstrating how art has the power to break free from conventional boxes.
Amy Kumar– Kuchipudi Solo (10 minutes)
Amy Kumar, a dedicated Kuchipudi dancer with over 25 years of experience, is set to perform alongside Shivani to Jason’s music. Amy, who runs Prerana Pratibha and holds a scientific background, finds dance to be an integral part of her life, providing both wings to soar and roots to ground her. She strives to convey socially relevant messages through art, aiming to build a strong dancing community in her city.
Soz Khwani: Fankari, Raag aur Shayari
by Askari Naqvi
🗓 27th January 2024
⏱5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Venue: Amphitheatre
Soz Khwani is an art form traditionally performed during the month of Muharram. The compositions are recited without any musical instruments. The poems are recited on a pitch created by human voices using the swar ‘SA’ which acts like a Tanpura. The compositions are traditional and are based on Hindustani Ragas. The poems are penned in Hindi, Urdu, Awadhi by well-known poets from Lucknow and Awadh. The performance is put together in a way that enables understanding and appreciation by audiences outside the traditional domain.
The poems describe and set the imagery of the tragedy of Karbala with pathos in a deeply emotional narrative. The tragedy of Karbala is one of the cruelest massacres that the world has seen. The whole family of Prophet Muhammad led by Imam Hussain consisting of men, women, and children were brutally killed. The performance unfolds the tragedy in a recital of Soz Khwani with a brief commentary by Askari Naqvi.