Pune : The premiere of Ikshana the Bharatanatyam series addressing the climate crisis, captivated a full house on September 20, 2024, at Pune’s iconic Shreeram Lagoo Rang-Avakash. Presented by HCL Concerts in collaboration with Poornam Ecovision Foundation, the performance received an emotional five-minute standing ovation, celebrating the bold fusion of classical dance and environmental consciousness.Directed and scripted by the acclaimed Delhi-based Bharatanatyam artist Tanya Saxena, Ikshana explored humanity’s complex relationship with the planet through three deeply evocative acts. 

The first act of this dance performance captured the evolution of humankind and its sweeping impact on the environment. The second act confronted the irreversible damage caused by human activity, from deforestation to unchecked industrialization. The third act poignantly depicted the emotional and psychological burden of the climate crisis on individuals, leaving the audience in deep reflection on the state of the planet’s future.

The performers, Tanya Saxena, Rama Kshirsagar, Anagha Harkare, Ridhi Potdar, Niyati Visal, and Srushti Loya, delivered masterful performances, infusing the classical dance form with contemporary relevance. Their graceful yet powerful movements left an indelible impact, proving that Bharatanatyam can transcend its traditional roots to address the most pressing issues of our time.

Tanya Saxena expressed her gratitude, saying, “Pune’s audience has always had a profound connection with the arts, and their response to Ikshana was truly humbling. I am thankful to HCL Concerts for giving us this platform to tell such an important story through dance.”

Following the success of the Pune premiere, Ikshana is set to tour Bengaluru, Chennai, and New Delhi, continuing its mission to raise awareness about the climate crisis through the timeless medium of Bharatanatyam, stated a press release.