MAD and DIVINE Iconic dancer Rama Vaidyanathan explores the evocative poetry of two mystical women saint-poets

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MAD and DIVINE explores the mystical and ecstatic works of legendary women poet-saints who transcended social norms to express their uninhibited devotion to the Supreme. The choreography centers on the spiritual expressions of two mystic poets: 13th-century Marathi saint Janabai and 14th-century Kashmiri poet Lalleshwari (Lal Ded). It contrasts Janabai's intimate, personified devotion with Lal Ded's abstract, formless spiritual realization. Choreographed and performed by Rama Vaidyanathan, the presentation uses classical Bharatanatyam to translate intense spiritual intoxication, philosophical inquiry, and divine fervor into movement and expression. The performance features original musical scores set to distinct regional and literary traditions, incorporating live vocals, percussion, and melodic instruments to mirror the emotional arc of the poetry.