About the Event

Nachni is a powerful and poignant tale of a folk dancer’s dialogue with her absent daughter – a daughter who may only exist in her imagination. Set against the backdrop of rural fairs and the mehfils of feudal lords in the 1940s and 50s, the play unfolds the struggles and resilience of a woman denied even the basic emotional needs of life.

In her quest for dignity and identity, she reinvents herself as a dancer, turning her art into both survival and emancipation. Through this journey, Nachni emerges not just as a performer but as a woman of almost epic stature, passing on a tragic yet rich legacy of dance and endurance.

Written by the legendary Bhanu Bharti, Nachni traces the yearnings of a court dancer subjected to the whims of a male-dominated society. The play makes bold statements about the liberty of women, presenting art as a weapon of self-discovery and freedom. With its deep social perspective, the narrative lends authenticity and raw power to the character.

Performed by renowned Kathak exponent Dr. Rakhi Joshi and directed by Madhur Bhatia, a postgraduate of Indian Theatre, Nachni is an evocative blend of performance, storytelling, and socio-cultural reflection.

Don’t miss this unforgettable journey into the heart and spirit of a dancer who dared to define her own destiny.