Dance Like a Goddess, written and directed by acclaimed Indian playwright Mahesh Dattani and produced and curated by Saba Zaidi Abdi for Adakar Theatre and Cultural Group, is a thought-provoking exploration of art, identity, family legacy and the personal cost of standing up for social justice.
Presented at NIDA on 1 and 2 August 2026, the production seamlessly weaves together politics, tradition and social change through the rich cultural language of Bharatanatyam, creating a compelling and deeply relevant theatrical experience.
At the heart of the story is Lata, an acclaimed Bharatanatyam dancer approaching retirement, who grapples with the absence of an heir to carry forward her artistic legacy. As her husband’s political career rises, she watches her cherished classical art form become entangled in political agendas. The conflict deepens when her son joins a radical anti-caste Dalit theatre movement alongside his fiancée, placing his ideals in direct opposition to Lata’s traditional Brahminical repertoire.
When the government announces that Lata is to receive the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award, long-buried truths begin to surface, intensifying family tensions. In the midst of these conflicts, the family is forced to confront difficult questions of privilege, caste, identity and the transformative power of art. Ultimately, Lata must find common ground with the younger generation to protect their diverse cultural expressions from being silenced.
The production unfolds with patience, allowing the audience to become invested in its characters before reaching its emotional peak in the second half. It is here that Dattani’s writing truly shines, presenting complex social issues with sensitivity while raising timely questions about legacy, artistic freedom and the role of performance in challenging entrenched social structures.
Aparna Tijoriwala delivers a commanding performance as Lata, bringing emotional depth, dignity and vulnerability to the role. The supporting cast – Mayur Vikram, Ari Nanda, Neelam Singh Chima, Samarjit Dey, Mittal Bhavsar and Parag Tijoriwala – complements her with conviction and authenticity, creating believable relationships that anchor the play’s emotional journey.
The evening opens beautifully with a captivating Bharatanatyam performance by Neeta Sura’s Nritya Niketan School of Dance, immediately immersing the audience in the cultural and emotional world of the play. Sumathi Krishnan’s evocative music enhances the storytelling throughout, while Tushar Bose’s thoughtful lighting design contributes effectively to the atmosphere.
Dance Like a Goddess is a compelling and deeply relevant theatrical experience that examines the intersection of power, politics, love and art with intelligence and compassion. It is both a celebration of cultural heritage and a courageous examination of the social structures that shape it, leaving audiences with much to reflect upon long after the curtain falls.
By Rekha Rajvanshi
