The Natya Vriksha Dance Collective – by Geeta Chandran

With its origins in the Rig Veda, the word SAMAGATI is a Sanskrit compound consisting of the terms sama and gati (गति). The term has multiple meanings and connotations: Coming together, Union, and Progressing Together. All these meanings have special relevance to the style and working of the NATYA VRIKSHA DANCE COLLECTIVE, where the process of choreography and presentation deeply enshrines these values.

Every idea is deeply examined by the Collective and every voice is heard and reconciled. This democratic structure through which a revitalized pedagogy of choreography emerges makes each dancer a stakeholder and emotionally connected to the choreography. The Collective also shares a special relationship with all the musicians who are part of the productions and are associated with Natya Vriksha. And, when the dancers have known each other since early childhood, the level of trust and bonding amongst the group is unique and probably unparalleled, ensuring a completely different emotional appeal to all its productions and performances.

And as with Institution, the Dance Collective too enshrines process over product.

– Geeta Chandran