The performance was a celebration of ‘sari’, a unique drape in constant play with the body, both in stillness and in movement. 

The union of the sari and the wearer was expressed through dance.

With stylised movements, intricate storytelling and complex aerial ballet, it presented the story of India’s most familiar garment.

From the comforting fragrance of every mother’s old heirloom, to the complex designs and patterns that crowd up the Instagram algorithm on festive occasions, the saree has been a ubiquitous presence in Indian lives.

In conversation with mid-day, choreographer Daksha Sheth recalled that the production was first staged in 2010, at the Sangeet Natak Akademi in Delhi. The story followed the creation of the saree — from the cotton seed to its weaving on the loom, dyeing to the final drape — all told through dance and music.

The production was led by Sheth’s daughter performer-actor Isha Sharvani on stage. A part of her mother’s dance company since her early teens, Sharvani said, “All over the world, people are fascinated by Indian textile. Sometimes, we have travelled with an exhibition [detailing the history and evolution of the saree] that transforms the show from being just a dance production to an immersive and educational experience.”

The production involved performers ranging from the ages of 16 to 50. The movements for the performance incorporated aerial ballet.

The garment was a key motif, and a prop, with performers wearing unstitched sarees throughout the performance. The use of dancers across age groups also serves to showcase the beauty and diversity of the drape across different ages, body shapes and personalities.

Sharvani shared, “For the aerial movements, we incorporated the use of the Maharashtrian martial arts, mallakhamb. Traditionally, it has been performed by women wearing nauvaris. As challenging as that sounds, only when you start working on it do you realise how suitable and versatile the garment is.”

The performance was directed by Devissaro and choreographed by Daksha Sheth. Rta Kapur Chishti and Pallavi Verma were consultants on saree wearing styles.