Commissions

The damaru is a traditional percussion instrument that bears multifaceted religious and cultural underpinnings that have come to shape the creative pulse of this project. This performance will explore the profound symbolism of the instrument in Hindu mythology — illuminating spiritual notions around the unity of existence — and the interplay between creation and destruction, welding its chosen movement forms with the Tandava that Shiva performed to the beats of the damaru, precipitating in the creation of the sound of music. 

Dancers Nilava Sen (India) and Shyam Dattani (UK) will bring their artistic prowess, creativity, and interpretations to this show, collaborating with the musical duo Shadow and Light (Pavithra Chari and Anindo Bose) and the accomplished light designer Gyandev Singh. This union of tradition and modernity promises to unlock new dimensions of artistic expression. Choreographic mentors include Morag Deyes and Tanushree Shankar.

Continuing the valued partnership between Sampad and Serendipity Arts, this commissioned piece will premiere at Serendipity Arts Festival 2023. Following its debut, the production is looking to tour several Indian cities. ‘Damaru’ has been invited to join the Birmingham International Dance Festival with a UK tour in 2024.