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 'Yagyaseni: The Becoming of Draupadi' by Sangita Chatterjee- Dr. Anupma Harshale-mail: anupma.manav.atlas@gmail.com August 26, 2025 Sangita Chatterjee's performance of 'Yagyaseni: The Becoming of Draupadi' was a breathtaking tribute to one of Indian mythology's most profound characters. As a disciple of the renowned Vaswati Mishra and an exponent of the Lucknow gharana, Sangita showcased her deep mastery of Kathak, enveloping the audience in the intricate narratives and emotions that define Draupadi's journey.  Sangita Chatterjee (Photo: Inni Singh) From the very beginning, the performance captured the essence of Draupadi's life -a powerful portrayal of the ahuti-pratibha, the adroit daughter, wife, and formidable figure in the Mahabharata. The dance opened with a visceral exploration of her birth, evoking poignant imagery with each expressive movement. Sangita's eyes spoke volumes, reflecting the weight of her character's struggle and the fervent connection with Lord Krishna, who serves as both guide and protector. The segment titled "Vigraham" was a highlight, showcasing the beauty of Draupadi through a series of enchanting poses that radiated grace and poise. The delicate rendition to the notes of "Gama re sa pa dha ni sa" became a heartfelt invitation into Draupadi's world, encapsulating the charm of a maiden in her shyness and innocence. Her interpretation of "mor ki gaat" where she interacted with an imaginary bird, added a layer of intimacy and realism to the performance, capturing the innocence and tenderness of the moment. As she performed, the lines "Aisee bansi ke thakur ka naam pata chale" resonated deeply, signifying Draupadi's connection to the divine. Sangita's meticulous portrayal of her searching for the flute notes among the trees while shutting her eyes was nothing short of magical, allowing us to glimpse into the tender nuances of her spirit. The narrative arc of the performance evolved beautifully as Sangita depicted Draupadi's inner turmoil - the anguished yet stoic expression that conveyed her emotional depth without the need for words. Each gesture, each footstep, and each expression were laced with a profound sense of longing, particularly noted in the portrayal of her love for the five Pandavas, while she silently awaited Arjun, the bearer of the Gandiv.  Abhinav Mukherjee & Sangita Chatterjee The duet for the Tarana was a visually stunning tribute to her meeting with Arjun. The synchronization of their movements in a rhythmic embrace was poetic and transcendent, encapsulating the essence of companionship. The impactful depiction of the internal struggle and sacrifice faced by Draupadi was amplified through her powerful footwork and expressive hand gestures, leaving the audience in awe. Sangita's portrayal of Draupadi as a compassionate mother figure brought tears to many eyes in the audience, accentuating a poignant depth that resonates universally. The symbol of motherhood, represented through delicate movements and evocative facial expressions, served as a powerful reminder of the nurturing spirit that resides within a woman, even amidst trials and tribulations. As she concluded, the resonant cry of "Hari Hari" echoed through the hall, bringing forth a wave of emotions that stirred the hearts of those present. The performance eloquently depicted Draupadi's desire to return and serve as an instrument of Krishna -a compelling metaphor for the aspiration to rise above adversities with grace and compassion. In 'Yagyaseni: The Becoming of Draupadi,' Sangita Chatterjee not only honored the legendary figure but also wove a rich tapestry of emotions, sacrifice, and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to witness this mesmerizing performance. It was a celebration of womanhood, adorned with the eloquence of Kathak, and I am left yearning to experience it again and again. The credits include: Direction & Choreography - Sangita Chatterjee, Script - Averee Chaurey & Sangita Chatterjee, Music - Saroj Mohanty & Mahua Mukherjee, Lyrics - Himanshu Shrivastava, Guest artiste - Abhinav Mukherjee.  Dr. Anupma Harshal is a Kathak exponent mentored by Pandit Brijraj Mishra and serves as a STEM Mentor and Science communication professional. |
