The physically-challenged dancers perform Kathak at Anjali National Children’s Festival in Bhubaneswar. Picture by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Nov. 5: True to their name, Ability Unlimited displayed talent as the troupe’s dancers on wheelchairs went beyond the body limits with their acrobatic moves and incredible stunts.

An inspirational performance by the troupe’s 150 artistes, including the physically and mentally challenged dancers, left viewers awe-struck.

Far from being called “disabled”, the unlimited ability of the artistes was visible in the precision and effortless synchronisation that the team maintained throughout the performance that was presented in various segments at the ongoing Anjali National Children’s Festival on Sunday evening.

From Bharatnatyam to Sufi dance to contemporary movements, the artistes from New Delhi illustrated immaculate timing and perfect expressions in the recitals they performed at the event. Taught by their guru, Syed Salauddin Pasha, the artistes also stunned the audience with yoga and sword dance on wheelchair.

The repertoire of the troupe included martial arts on wheels, the Ramayan on wheels and choreography on many Sufi and modern songs. Covering the entire stage with interweaving and circular motions on wheelchair to match the beat of the music, the dancers made every step looks simple. While the crowd could not stop cheering the dancers’ positive attitude, self-belief and confidence, the applause reached a crescendo as the dancers spun incessantly with their wheelchairs for a couple of minutes.

“I could not believe my eyes when I saw sword fight and classical dance performed so perfectly and gracefully by physically and mentally challenged artistes. I feel this was not just a mere performance but a message by the artistes that given the right atmosphere and respect, physically challenged people can achieve everything that others can,” said Sunitha, a corporate employee, who watched the programme.

The artistes had received a similar response from the city crowd last year when they had performed at Anjali.

“We are only glad to be back here to perform in front of such lovely people. Earning a place in record books helps, but till people watch us perform live we do not feel complete as artistes,” said a member of Ability Unlimited.

“Through dance, the troupe members find a voice in a not-very-inclusive society. It also helps inspire our participants and viewers,” said Shruti Mohapatra, organiser of the Anjali festival for children.