Theatrical Heritage & Arts from Kerala stage a dance show in Bhubaneswar. Picture by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Nov. 17: A unique amalgamation of the struggle for Independence and traditional dance forms of India was presented on stage at the Rabindra Mandap on Saturday.

The theme for the event was to promote national integration among the youngsters.

Around 50 artistes from the Kerala-based cultural group Malayalam Theatrical Heritage & Arts performed for three hours, enthralling the audience with their act.

The production titled, Jai Hind, brought to focus landmark events in the history of India’s Independence struggle like the Partition of Bengal, Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Quit India Movement, Salt Satyagraha and the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

With patriotic songs playing in the background, the show showcased the developments during the British rule. The depiction of the Jallianwala Bagh bloodbath had the perfect blend of brutality and emotion, while the Salt Satyagraha rightfully portrayed the power of non-violence.

All the scenes were narrated by a woman dressed as Bharat Mata. From powerful to soft, she modulated her voice beautifully.

The lives of Bhagat Singh, Kunhali Marakkar, Udham Singh, Swami Vivekananda and Vakkom Moulavi were also resurrected in their act. Dressed like the heroes, the actors were completely involved into the characters.

Nine dancers trained in seven traditional dance forms gracefully took centrestage at various stages of the act. The dance forms included Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Karam, Dandiya, Mohiniyattam and Kathak.

For the audience, the experience was enriching. “I came to know about freedom fighters about whom I had never heard of. There was never a dull moment,” said Monalisa Satpathy, a 26-year old entrepreneur. The programme was organised by the Bhubaneswar Music Circle and Kerala Kala Samiti.