WISCOMP (Women in Security, Conflict Management, and Peace) is commemorating 25 years of championing women’s leadership in peace and security with a special dance performance titled “OUR VOICE”, choreographed and presented by Bharatanatyam maestro Geeta Chandran and her Natya Vriksha Dance Collective. Commissioned by WISCOMP, “OUR VOICE” is a multi-logue performance that uses the language of Bharatanatyam and dance theatre to explore women’s resilience amidst the ongoing challenges posed by conflict, war, and patriarchal structures. Geeta Chandran’s choreography expands on themes she first explored in her earlier work “Her Voice”, which focused on the character Draupadi from the Mahabharata. This new performance takes a broader view, using the metaphor of water to symbolize the constrained yet powerful lives of women, as they navigate identity crises and fight for autonomy.
The performance pays homage to women’s courage and vulnerability, weaving together their personal and political battles, as well as their relentless pursuit of freedom and peace. Chandran’s choreography offers a poignant tribute to the endurance of women and their potential to overcome patriarchal constraints, while reflecting on the question of whether women can truly transcend their shattered experiences and become the force for peace they aspire to be.
Geeta Chandran, a Padma Shri awardee, is celebrated not only for her expertise in Bharatanatyam but also for using dance as a platform for meaningful social dialogue. With a career spanning 50 years, Chandran continues to transcend cultural boundaries, fostering inclusive and transformative artistic experiences. “OUR VOICE” aligns with WISCOMP’s mission, highlighting how art can amplify the voices of women in conflict and contribute to peacebuilding efforts.
This anniversary event promises to be an evening of reflection and inspiration, celebrating the strength of women in their quest for justice and peace.
The performance is scheduled for 6:30 pm on Friday, October 4th, 2024, at the C.D. Deshmukh Auditorium, India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi.
