Baithak, a traditional concert series, creates an intimate space which embraces the subtle, unspoken moments between artist, instrument, and audience.

Amrita Lahiri is an Indian classical dancer specializing in Kuchipudi. Critics describe her as ‘gifted with a radiant stage presence’, and her dance performances and choreographies have been acclaimed for their elegance and dynamism. She is empaneled as an artist with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, and has toured as a soloist in India, USA, Switzerland, South Korea, Africa, and Southeast Asia, presenting Kuchipudi from its traditional origins to its contemporary forms. She presents the beauty and joy of dance, while maintaining the precision and soul of the classical Kuchipudi form.

Shan Bhatnagar is an Indian painter whose vibrant artworks are a distinct take on the traditional temple art of Pichwai.

Hrishikesh Majumdar: Flautist

The production is titled ‘Call of the Flute’ and is the Mumbai premier of the show. ‘Call of the Flute’ was originally curated for Siyahi, Jaipur by Manjot Chawla. It is a beautiful amalgamation of the classical Indian dance form of Kuchipudi, and the traditional painting style of Pichwai. The arts in India- both performing arts and visual arts- are deeply inspired by Lord Krishna. There are vivid descriptions in poetry of his distinctive dark body, his yellow clothing, the flower garland around his neck, the peacock feather in his hair. All of these provide rich visual imagery and endless possibilities for artistic imagination. But the most prevalent is the concept of the divine flute player. The sound of Krishna’s flute pervades the psyche of nearly every Indian artist.

In this production, Amrita Lahiri, Shan Bhatnagar, and Hrishikesh Majumdar come together for an evening that follows the call of the flute.

Program Co-Curator: Devina Dutt