Have you ever felt like you have so much inside you… but no space to express it?
Or maybe you want to step onto the stage, but something holds you back?

This workshop is for you.

Together, we will explore:
Body movement & expression
Voice & communication
Confidence & stage presence
Understanding and expressing emotions

Theatre is not just about acting…
It’s about discovering yourself and learning to truly be seen.

Theatre is not for the faint-hearted.
It will open you up, challenge you, and transform you.

If you’re ready…
Step in
Speak up
Show up

And most importantly… OWN THE STAGE

Location: CRIPA, Auroville
Time: 4–6 PM
Dates: 15,22,29th May

Contact: 9769549246

With a career spanning television, cinema, and the stage, Anu brings a multi-faceted perspective to the craft of performance. Her journey began in front of the camera, most notably featuring in the DD1 series Yahan Ke Hum Sikander, an experience that solidified her foundation in professional acting.

​Beyond performance, her passion for storytelling led her into the realms of screenwriting and direction, giving her a comprehensive understanding of how a narrative moves from the page to the stage. This background allows her to approach theatre not just as an actor’s medium, but as a cohesive artistic vision.

​Currently based in Auroville, she is dedicated to fostering creative expression through collaborative projects and holistic theatre. In this workshop, her goal is to share these professional insights—ranging from character development to directorial nuances—to help you sharpen your instincts and find your unique presence as a performer.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday

A practical 3-Day Acting Workshop that prepares participants to confidently face the camera as Actors, Models and Anchors.
Takeaway: Your own Audition Video!

Workshop Mentors:

Elka Sinha – Media Professional & Theater Practitioner
Yatra Srinivassan – Film Director & Actor

Venue:

Yatra Film Academy, Near New Creation, Kuilapalayam, Auroville

To Enroll, Contact:

9043232971 / 9751033162

– Reconnect with your inner child
– Reflect on your journey from adolescence to the present
– Explore what you’ve gained and lost along the way
– Understand what shapes your current self and why you want to maintain your identity

Every Friday 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Every Saturday 5:30 PM to 7 PM

To Register please contact : +91 7209397556

Venue : Art Forest, Mathur Rd, near fertile community auro green area, Auroville

https://maps.app.goo.gl/rBaTdvAJ8yRhTkoM6

Suggested contribution – 300₹/session

About the Facilitator

Shivesh is a theatre practitioner with 9 years of experience in the performing arts. He has worked with theatre companies such as Moromia Theatre (Kolkata), Rangshila Theatre Group (Mumbai), and Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry). He has performed at prestigious venues including Muse du quai Branly (Paris), Rangshankara (Bangalore), Academy of Fine Arts (Kolkata), and Prithvi Theatre (Mumbai). He has also acted in short films and ads, and has undergone training in Kalaripayattu, Chhau and folk songs.

Come as you are. Leave a little more you.

These sessions bring together storytelling, acting, movement, and voice work with a strong focus on theatre games, traditional games, and playful improvisations.

At an age where identity is forming, questions are many, and emotions are loud, theatre becomes a safe space. It allows teens to express freely, listen deeply, and explore different ways of being on stage and in life.

Why play matters, even as a teen:
In a world that begins to ask you to “grow up,” theatre reminds you that play is not childish, it’s powerful. Theatre games sharpen focus, empathy, spontaneity, and self-awareness. Traditional games reconnect you with rhythm, community, and cultural memory. Together, they help build confidence, curiosity, and clarity.

Every Saturday | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Lahe by Loka, near Auroville

https://maps.app.goo.gl/VSBCXJ8akj3bdzgm6

Every Sunday | 09:00 AM – 10:00 AM
SDFX Studio, 4th Floor, near Jayas Utopia Corner, Chetty St., MG Road Area, Pondicherry

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8skCGeoCXCj93f8PA

We’ve revised our fee structure to make theatre more accessible to all.

About the Facilitators

Shivesh is a theatre practitioner with 9 years of experience in the performing arts. He has worked with renowned theatre companies like Moromia Theatre (Kolkata), Rangshila Theatre Group (Mumbai), and Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry). He has performed at venues such as Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Academy of Fine Arts (Kolkata), and Prithvi Theatre (Mumbai). Shivesh has acted in short films, digital ads, and trained in Kalaripayattu, Chhau, and folk singing.

Shafali is a theatre practitioner and educator who began her journey as a storyteller. She has worked widely as a drama and storytelling facilitator, especially with children and teens. She has collaborated with Theatre I-Entertainment Trust (Delhi), Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry), and performed at Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Kamani Auditorium (Delhi), The American Embassy School (Delhi), ITFOK (Kerala), Pitara International TYA Festival (Delhi), and Purisai Festival (Tamil Nadu). She has trained in Therukoothu, Chhau, Kalaripayattu, Lavani, Paraiyattam, and Western singing.

To register, send a WhatsApp message to
+91 8447236523/ 7209397556

Place: Kalarigram
Dates: 2 June – 29 June (full month), Monday – Friday
Time: 09:30 – 11:00
Age Group: 15 – 60 years

Fees:

Drop-in class: ₹500
Full-month workshop: ₹9,000

Workshop taught by:
Bhadra & Sukh

A collaboration between:
Valkirie Theater & Kalarigram

Contact & Inscriptions:
+91 90031 95306 / +91 91739 004672

Follow us on Instagram:
[@kalarigram](https://instagram.com/kalarigram) | [@valkireitheatre](https://instagram.com/valkireitheatre)

Organized by
————

Yatra Art and Culture Foundation

Chief Guests
————

Kalaimamani Dr. Lourdes Shanthi
M.A. (Sociology), M.A. (Dance), Ph.D. (Dance)
HOD, Dept. of Dance (Retd), Bharathiar Palkalai Koodam, Puducherry
Kalaimamani Kalamandalam Dr. Vichithra Palikkandy
M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D. (Dance)
HOD, Dept. of Dance, Bharathiar Palkalai Koodam, Puducherry
Rtn. PHF S. Rajasegarane
President, Rotary Club of Pondicherry Friends City, Puducherry

With Best Regards From
———————-

Thiru Yatra Srinivassan
Founder & Director, Yatra Art and Culture Foundation
Mrs. Adhilakshmi
Trustee, YACF

The Guru
——–

Natya Shree Smt. Caveri Suresh

BPA, MFA, DTT; Founder, Diya Dance Studio (Auroville)
Disciple of Kalaimamani Smt. Jayashree Narayanan, Dr. Lourdes Shanthi & Dr. Vichithra Palikkandy
B.A. (Performing Arts), Pondicherry University & Bharathiyar Palkalaikoodam; M.A., Annamalai University; teacher training (Bharatanatyam, Tamil University, Tanjore); Kalakshetra intensive
Titles: Natiyasree, Kramiya Kalai Chelam, Bharatha Sundaramani, Thillaiyal Natya Peroli, Nidhi Natya Thilagam
Her students have participated in Guinness World Record events (Pasumai India, Save Water, Veera Natya Viththagi, Veera Mangai Velu Naachiyaar, Thillaiyal Natiyanjali)

Orchestra & Choreography
————————

Natuvangam & Choreography: Natya Shree Smt. Caveri Suresh
Vocal: Tmt. Ammaitchi Murugaiyan, M.A. (Vocal Music)
Mridangam: Kalaimamani Layahari M. Angappan (Puducherry)
Violin: Sapteswara Mamani S. Kiruba Murali

Programme
———

Item

Ragam

Thalam

Pushpanjali

Nattai

Eakam

Alarippu

Nattai

Thisram

Kouthvam

Nattai

Adhi

Jathiswaram

Arabhi

Adhi

Thirupugazh

Vachaspathi

Misrachapu

Vishamakara Kanna

Senjuruti

Eakam

Meenakshi Thayee

Abhogi

Adhi

Mangalam

–

–

Production Team
—————

Costume: New Winner Dresses
Makeup: Mrs. Revathi Padmanabhan, M.A. (Dance)
Anchor: Dr. S. Priyadharshini, MBBS, Trustee, YACF
Stage Decoration: Yatra Team
Audio & Light: Bharat Nivas Team
Poster & Banner Design: Ms. S. Yuvasri, Mr. Danasu, Mr. Hariharan
Videography: Mr. Rajaram, Ms. J. Jayabharathi
Photography: Mr. Hari Prashanth, Ms. S. Yuvasri

Student Performers
——————

1. Ms. E. Madhumitha (14)
Daughter of Mr. S. Elango & Mrs. E. Devi
Class 9, Kuilapalayam Higher Secondary School, Auroville
– 9 years of dance training; First Prize in Drawing; 5th place in Marathon.

2. Ms. R.S. Anusree (13)
Daughter of Mr. E.V. Rajesh Kumar & Mrs. R. Saranya
Class 8, Kuilapalayam Higher Secondary School, Auroville
– 3 years of dance training; 4th in District Yoga; 2nd in Running Race.

3. Ms. R. Raveena (11)
Daughter of Mr. R. Rajaram & Mrs. R. Tamilselvi
Class 6, Immaculate Heart of Mary Girls Higher Secondary School
– 6 years of dance training; acted in Yatra Talkies short films (e.g. “Adithalam”).

4. Ms. M. Varsha (14)
Daughter of Mr. M. Manikandan & Mrs. M. Sivasakthi
Class 9, Kuilapalayam Higher Secondary School, Auroville
– 3 years of dance training; passionate & disciplined.

5. Ms. M. Vikasni (12)
Daughter of Mr. R. Manikandan & Mrs. M. Rukmani
Class 7, Kuilapalayam Higher Secondary School, Auroville
– 3 years of dance training; 1st Prize in Drawing & Writing.

6. Ms. R. Supriya (13)
Daughter of Mr. R. Rajaram & Mrs. R. Tamilselvi
Class 8, Immaculate Heart of Mary Girls Higher Secondary School
– 5 years of dance training; theatre & short-film acting.

7. Ms. K. Arishini (13)
Daughter of Mr. V. Kandasamy & Mrs. K. Amudhavalli
Class 7, Panchayat Union Middle School, Periyamadhaialyar Chavady
– 3 years of dance training; 3rd in District Chess; 2nd in Block Karate; 1st in Tamil Speech.

About Yatra Art & Culture Foundation
————————————

Since 2005, Yatra Art and Culture Foundation has been on a mission of “education through arts,” empowering village youth to dream big through creative expression. Under the guidance of our Founder & Director, Thiru Yatra Srinivassan, and Trustee Mrs. S. Adhilakshmi, we’ve grown into a vibrant cultural platform that builds confidence, creativity and self-expression.

This is our second Salangai Pooja, and we warmly invite you to join us in blessing these young dancers as they take their first formal step into the sacred world of Bharatanatyam.

Contact: 9751033162 / 0413-2623071 | [www.yatraarts.org](http://www.yatraarts.org)

Unleash your child’s creativity and confidence through the magic of theatre

These classes are thoughtfully designed to introduce children to acting, storytelling, body movement, and voice work, helping them build confidence, teamwork, and creative expression in a fun and engaging way

Every Sunday | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Venue : SDFX Studio , 4th Floor, near Jayas utopia Corner, Chetty St., MG Road Area, Pondicherry

https://maps.app.goo.gl/UY3SmASX8VKbopnJA

About the Facilitators

Shivesh is a theatre practitioner with 9 years of experience in the performing arts. He has worked with renowned theatre companies like Moromia Theatre (Kolkata), Rangshila Theatre Group (Mumbai), and Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry). He has performanced in prestigious venues, including Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Academy of Fine Arts (Kolkata), and Prithvi Theatre (Mumbai). Shivesh has also acted in short films, digital ads, and trained in Kalaripayattu, Chhau, and folk singing.

Shafali is a theatre practitioner and educator who began her journey as a storyteller for children. She has worked extensively as a drama and storytelling facilitator, engaging young audiences through theatre.
She has collaborated with Theatre I-Entertainment Trust (Delhi), Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry), and performed at prestigious venues such as Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Kamani Auditorium (Delhi), The American Embassy School (Delhi), ITFOK International Theatre Festival (Kerala), Pitara International TYA Festival (Delhi), and Purisai Festival (Tamil Nadu).
She has acted in a short film and has undergone training in Therukoothu, Chhau, Kalaripayattu, Lavani, Paraiyattam, and Western singing, performing in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Marathi.

To register, send a WhatsApp message to +91 8447236523 / 7209397556.

Let the stage be your child’s playgroud!

https://www.kattaikkuttu.org/survey-diploma-course

Yatra Film Academy’s main objective is to impart knowledge of cinema production to the younger generation, leveraging film’s power to drive social change. Our curriculum encompasses pre-production, production, and post-production techniques.

In today’s digital landscape, visual media plays a significant role. Our academy aims to foster socially responsible filmmakers who can create impactful films addressing social issues.

We offer comprehensive training to help youth discover their creative potential and develop innovative filmmaking skills. By doing so, we empower them to pursue careers in filmmaking and become responsible creators.

Our state-of-the-art infrastructure includes:

– Film projection hall
– Editing studio
– Shooting space
– Library
– Experienced faculty

Our weekend classes cover:

– Acting
– Film direction
– Scriptwriting
– Cinematography
– Editing

We also invite industry professionals from Chennai, Mumbai, and beyond to share their expertise with our students

FREE DEMO CLASS
2nd May, Friday | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

REGULAR CLASSSES
Every Sunday |
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Venue: SDFX Dance Studio, Puducherry.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/RwSTZgEYmsvMrvWT8

Shivesh is a theatre practitioner with 9 years of experience in the performing arts. He has worked with renowned theatre companies like Moromia Theatre (Kolkata), Rangshila Theatre Group (Mumbai), and Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry). He has performanced in prestigious venues, including Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Academy of Fine Arts (Kolkata), and Prithvi Theatre (Mumbai). Shivesh has also acted in short films, digital ads, and trained in Kalaripayattu, Chhau, and folk singing.

Shafali is a theatre practitioner and educator who began her journey as a storyteller for children. She has worked extensively as a drama and storytelling facilitator, engaging young audiences through theatre.
She has collaborated with Theatre I-Entertainment Trust (Delhi), Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry), and performed at prestigious venues such as Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Kamani Auditorium (Delhi), The American Embassy School (Delhi), ITFOK International Theatre Festival (Kerala), Pitara International TYA Festival (Delhi), and Purisai Festival (Tamil Nadu).
She has acted in a short film and has undergone training in Therukoothu, Chhau, Kalaripayattu, Lavani, Paraiyattam, and Western singing, performing in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Marathi.

These classes are thoughtfully designed to introduce children to acting, storytelling, body movement, and voice work, helping them build confidence, teamwork, and creative expression in a fun and engaging way!

To register
Send a WhatsApp message to +91 8447236523 / 7209397556.

Let the stage be your child’s playgroud!

With over a decade of dedicated artistry, Mal Griot has cultivated a reputation for delivering unparalleled vocal performances, innovative music productions, and compelling narratives. Rooted in Queens, NY, and enriched by global experiences, Mal seamlessly integrates diverse cultural influences into his work, resulting in creations that resonate deeply with audiences. His commitment to excellence guarantees that every project goes beyond the highest industry standards.

While Mal prioritizes collaborations that align with his artistic vision, he schedules a limited number of engagements each year to ensure that each project receives the attention and dedication it deserves. Prospective collaborators are encouraged to reach out well in advance to discuss potential projects.

⬩Vocal Artist & Music Producer

“I Tried It (Dancing in the Dark)”: A collaboration with esteemed Bangalore-based DJ/Producer Unnayanaa, blending Afro-house rhythms with introspective lyrics, setting a new standard in the genre. Inspired by a transformative Ayahuasca experience, the track garnered features on BBC Radio and acclaim in publications such as Magnetic Magazine and MIXMAG.

Listen: “I Tried It (Dancing in the Dark)”

“Helicopter Man”: As a pivotal member of the international ensemble Deep Dawn, Mal contributed soulful vocals to this track, seamlessly blending experimental jazz, funk, and hip-hop elements, reflecting a commitment to musical innovation.

Listen: “Helicopter Man EP”

“Overmind”: A solo production that showcased his prowess in sound design and vocal layering, producing and performing, experimental soundscapes this track highlights Mal’s unique artistic vision and his innovative approach to music production.

Listen: “Overmind” 

⬩Voice Actor & Narrator

Mal has delivered nuanced narrations and character portrayals across various genres, including crime, romance, philosophy, and children’s literature. Notable projects include:

“Forget Me Not” by JT Ezra: Voiced 25 distinct characters, overseeing production to ensure a cohesive auditory experience.

Listen: “Forget Me Not” 

“The Mother – A Short Biography”: Provided insightful narration, bringing depth to this biographical piece.

Listen: “The Mother – A Short Biography” 

“On Women”: Engaged listeners with thoughtful narration, delving into complex philosophical themes.

Listen: “On Women” 

⬩Media Features

BBC Sounds 6 Music Breakfast Show with Nemone: Featured discussion on musical influences and the creative process behind recent releases.

Magnetic Magazine: Exclusive premiere of “I Tried It,” highlighting the track’s innovative fusion of Afro-house elements. Read More  

MIXMAG Asia: In-depth feature on the collaborative journey with Unnayanaa and the sonic exploration in “I Tried It.” Read More  

⬩Talents & Skills

Vocal Performance: A versatile singer with a dynamic range, adept in genres spanning house, soul, and spoken word, delivering performances that captivate and move audiences.

Music Production: Proficient in crafting immersive audio experiences, integrating innovative sound design techniques that set industry benchmarks.

Voice Acting: Skilled in character development and narration, delivering authentic and engaging performances that bring stories to life.

Public Speaking: An experienced orator, engaging audiences with compelling storytelling and insightful discourse, leaving lasting impressions.

⬩Education

Sound Design & Audio Production: Years of hands-on experience have honed Mal’s expertise in sound design, mixing, and mastering, contributing to a distinctive and high-quality auditory signature across all projects.

⬩Contact

Email: Mal’s Email

Instagram: @yep.that.malcolm

Soundcloud: Mal Griot

YouTube: @MalGriot

Website 1: Mal Griot | MUSIC

Website 2: Mal Griot | VOICE OVER

DEEPDAWN Youtube

DEEPDAWN Instagram

So I’m going to be offering an Acting Workshop in April.

DISCOVERY FROM THE INSIDE/OUT
How to put to work what you discover within yourself in the process of creating a character.
What else is needed?

We will spend time discovering this and how we can create a legitimate, authentic character on the stage.
Let’s go!

Seven classes. All in late afternoon/evening.

• Tuesday April 15th, 22nd, 29th from 4 to 6:30 pm

• Thursday April 17th, 24th from 3 to 5:30 pm

• Saturday April 19th, 26th from 4 to 6:30 pm

All in the big hall at CRIPA, Kalabhumi, Auroville.
Contribution of Rs. 500 per session.

For inquiries or booking, call: 9486416173
Jill Navarre, Director, The Auroville Theatre Group

Batch Starts: 5th April

Timings: Every Saturday & Sunday | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Venue: La Dance Studio, No. 64, 1st Floor, Montorsier St, MG Road Area, Puducherry
https://maps.app.goo.gl/u33BvVfuLRZZv3C28

Shivesh, a theatre practitioner with 9 years of experience in the performing arts. He has worked with renowned theatre companies like Moromia Theatre (Kolkata), Rangshila Theatre Group (Mumbai), and Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry). He has performanced in prestigious venues, including Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Academy of Fine Arts (Kolkata), and Prithvi Theatre (Mumbai). Shivesh has also acted in short films, digital ads, and trained in Kalaripayattu, Chhau, and folk singing.

Shafali is a theatre practitioner and educator who began her journey as a storyteller for children. She has worked extensively as a drama and storytelling facilitator, engaging young audiences through theatre.
She has collaborated with Theatre I-Entertainment Trust (Delhi), Indianostrum Theatre (Pondicherry), and performed at prestigious venues such as Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Ranga Shankara (Bangalore), Kamani Auditorium (Delhi), The American Embassy School (Delhi), ITFOK International Theatre Festival (Kerala), Pitara International TYA Festival (Delhi), and Purisai Festival (Tamil Nadu).
She has acted in a short film and has undergone training in Therukoothu, Chhau, Kalaripayattu, Lavani, Paraiyattam, and Western singing, performing in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Marathi.

These classes are thoughtfully designed to introduce children to acting, storytelling, body movement, and voice work, helping them build confidence, teamwork, and creative expression in a fun and engaging way!

Limited seats available!
To register, send a WhatsApp message to +91 8447236523 / 7209397556.

Let the stage be your child’s playground—see you in the class!

About the Book
“Nonviolent Communication” offers a fresh perspective on how to express yourself honestly and respectfully. By using four simple yet powerful components – observations, feelings, needs, and requests – you can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. This book is all about creating a more empathetic and compassionate way of interacting with others, and it’s packed with practical tips and real-life examples to help you get started. Whether you want to improve your personal or professional relationships, this book has something to offer.

Details:
When: Every Monday, starting January 13th
Time: 5 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Youth Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/H7Eu4dZ5fa4bJrdF9
Contact: +33673540830 on WhatsApp, or email monicayouthlink@gmail.com for questions

About the Book
“Nonviolent Communication” offers a fresh perspective on how to express yourself honestly and respectfully. By using four simple yet powerful components – observations, feelings, needs, and requests – you can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. This book is all about creating a more empathetic and compassionate way of interacting with others, and it’s packed with practical tips and real-life examples to help you get started. Whether you want to improve your personal or professional relationships, this book has something to offer.

Details:
When: Every Monday, starting January 13th
Time: 5 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Youth Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/H7Eu4dZ5fa4bJrdF9
Contact: +33673540830 on WhatsApp, or email monicayouthlink@gmail.com for questions

About the Book
“Nonviolent Communication” offers a fresh perspective on how to express yourself honestly and respectfully. By using four simple yet powerful components – observations, feelings, needs, and requests – you can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. This book is all about creating a more empathetic and compassionate way of interacting with others, and it’s packed with practical tips and real-life examples to help you get started. Whether you want to improve your personal or professional relationships, this book has something to offer.

Details:
When: Every Monday, starting January 13th
Time: 5 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Youth Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/H7Eu4dZ5fa4bJrdF9
Contact: +33673540830 on WhatsApp, or email monicayouthlink@gmail.com for questions

About the Book
“Nonviolent Communication” offers a fresh perspective on how to express yourself honestly and respectfully. By using four simple yet powerful components – observations, feelings, needs, and requests – you can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. This book is all about creating a more empathetic and compassionate way of interacting with others, and it’s packed with practical tips and real-life examples to help you get started. Whether you want to improve your personal or professional relationships, this book has something to offer.

Details:
When: Every Monday, starting January 13th
Time: 5 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Youth Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/H7Eu4dZ5fa4bJrdF9
Contact: +33673540830 on WhatsApp, or email monicayouthlink@gmail.com for questions

About the Book
“Nonviolent Communication” offers a fresh perspective on how to express yourself honestly and respectfully. By using four simple yet powerful components – observations, feelings, needs, and requests – you can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. This book is all about creating a more empathetic and compassionate way of interacting with others, and it’s packed with practical tips and real-life examples to help you get started. Whether you want to improve your personal or professional relationships, this book has something to offer.

Details:
When: Every Monday, starting January 13th
Time: 5 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Youth Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/H7Eu4dZ5fa4bJrdF9
Contact: +33673540830 on WhatsApp, or email monicayouthlink@gmail.com for questions

About the Book
“Nonviolent Communication” offers a fresh perspective on how to express yourself honestly and respectfully. By using four simple yet powerful components – observations, feelings, needs, and requests – you can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. This book is all about creating a more empathetic and compassionate way of interacting with others, and it’s packed with practical tips and real-life examples to help you get started. Whether you want to improve your personal or professional relationships, this book has something to offer.

Details:
When: Every Monday, starting January 13th
Time: 5 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Youth Space https://maps.app.goo.gl/H7Eu4dZ5fa4bJrdF9
Contact: +33673540830 on WhatsApp, or email monicayouthlink@gmail.com for questions

Highlights:
This Workshop is for the actors who are into Theatre, Television, Cinema or any other field of acting. This workshop will help you refine your skills as well as understand individual strengths and enhance the same. Along with Prasanna sir, there will be a team of experts who will be guiding during the workshop. Every evening there will be discussions, film shows and performances.

Time: from 9th Sept to 15th Sept 2024 (7 days)

Location: Mysore, Karnataka

Teaching Medium: English & Hindi

Fees: 20000 per participant, including stay and food.

For registration, visit link
Registration closes on 15-07-2024

Please feel free to contact us. Email:actingshastra@gmail.com

actingshastra.com

Wisdom Awards:

Aware: Glimpses of Consciousness by Frauke Sandig and Eric Black

All That Breathes by Shaunak Sen

Both the movies stand out for their brilliant expressions of the meaning of the connections between all forms of life which penetrate deeper into the layers of human unity. Though both the movies are documentaries, a very specific style of filmmaking adopted by the filmmakers helps bring the authenticity of the stories, people, context and so on. While the cinematography and background score of Aware: Glimpses of Consciousness takes us into the vastness of life, the film All that Breathes connects us with the nuances of life.

Cinema Paradiso Award

The Miniaturist of Junagadh by Kaushal Oza

This fiction movie, through its brilliant acting, sharp and poetic script full of layers and metaphors, unraveled one’s perception and imagination. It took us on a journey back in time in a seamless and gentle way bringing us into the context of households during the 1947 partition. It left us with a message of faith and hope. Hope, that despite our differences, whether cultural, religious, and whichever other label or belief it may be, that we can connect through something deeper: through poetry, through art, through creation, through emotion, through our humanity. The word that sprang to mind was Nambikai (Hope/Trust in Tamil)

Jury Awards:

Bangla Surf Girls by Elizabeth D Costa

This Stained Dawn by Anam Abbas

These two documentaries, each lasting an hour and a half, complement each other in their expression of human unity. These two films speak to us of emancipation, emancipation of oneself but also emancipation of others. We have the right to see our aspirations implemented. When we saw these two films, one phrase came to mind: “Femmes d’avenir”. The women of the future. In both films, we see women standing up to win their freedom, their right to dream, to be inspired, to be creative.

Category of “films made by Aurovilians, bioregion residents and guests of Auroville”:

Cinema Paradiso Award:

Thirai Virutham by Sugumar Shanmugam

For narrating his personal journey with the art that has a long history and his deep rooted passion for this art “Therukoothu”.

Wisdom Award:

The Path of the 12 Petals: Shanta, an Initiatic Journey by Michèle Decoust

For taking the audience on Shanta’s self exploratory journey that is never ending and filled with growth, learning, challenges and creativity.

Jury Award:

When Goupi Met the Mother Mira Alfassa (Founder of Auroville) and Found Home by Serena Aurora

For its simplicity and for capturing the quote of Lao Tzu, “Journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”.

Mongbra Award:

Fallin’ by Valentina Beatriz

For an aesthetically alluring dance short depicting the dynamic use of body, energy, space and time.

Jury Mentions:

Kolam by Saumya Srivastava

Meat the Vegan by Mélusine Schellenberger

So, to get a feel, an “aura” even, of the myriad films in the festival, I took a gander at the Auroville Film Festival website (filmfestival.auroville.org) and looked at their synopses and trailers and where possible looked up the full films on YouTube.com. Here is my humble selection of the best that the Film Festival has to offer….

The first film that leapt off the screen and tightly grasped my attention was the charming little documentary, “Bangla Surf Girls”. This is a story of three slum-dwelling Bangladeshi girls who discover surfing which turns out to be an outlet from the grid-locked rigid societal structure they live in. The film contains a counter-friction, dissent and resistance to the prevailing social mores… which goes to the point of the girls being slut-shamed for surfing. The three protagonists—the “Bangla Surf Girls”—immediately won me over to their side as I felt an expansiveness with their “escape to the sea”. Poignantly, one of the girls says she is only happy when she is surfing, while the rest of the time she is depressed. The fact that the girls have to battle limiting social pressures is, as an overarching world-building, deftly handled by the documentarian as the central conflict of a well-wrought tale. The girls’ increasing self-confidence and growing prowess at surfing gets us to cheer on and root for these girls as the documentary evolves as a delightful, yet gritty, coming-of-age story.

“Dagh Dagh Ujala” (“This Stained Dawn”) is a timely documentary on feminism in Pakistan, centred around a multi-city Aurat March (Women’s March). The film wishes to portray the combat with patriarchy and orthodoxy, and establish feminine bodily autonomy through the slogan “My Body, My Choice.” What is alarming is the backlash by Pakistan’s extreme Far-Right, which labels the movement as “vulgarity, lewdness, irreligious and heresy.” Shockingly the March is met with counter-protesters who throw rocks at the women. The film provided for me the notion of the dire immediacy of a need for a feminist movement in Pakistan. The film also relays a strong message about the formations of political organizing, strategies and movements, just as the film “The Square” did for Arab Spring in Egypt.

Out of the Auroville entries, which are mostly short films, the movie “Adithalam” (“Basic Education”) hollered at me. It’s a charming low-budget film. The most striking feature is its believability. There seems to be nothing fake or phony about the film, it comes across as genuine and authentic, from the acting to the simple plot to the reality of education in a small backward village. The young girl who plays the protagonist Saraswathy steals the show. Saraswathy struggles with her studies—she is in the sixth standard and can’t even sign her own name. Dismissed from school by the principal, the heart-warming turning point occurs when a dedicated teacher takes a personal interest in teaching Saraswathy. The film ends with Saraswathy not only taking part in an essay-writing competition, but winning it.

“The Clean Up” starts with a whimsical and even incongruous question as a premise: is a clean-up of the mind a prerequisite for the clean-up of a room, or vice versa? This short film is done in an abstract, wordless way with a lot of dancing. The best part of the film is that most of the cleaning has to do with cigarettes!

“Galaxy & Ganesha” consists of various renderings of Milky Way Galaxy-shaped designs, reifying the vision of transforming Auroville’s shape into such a pattern. The technique starts with sketches from tree bark that are rendered Galaxy-like through computer enhanced modifications. The idea is to signify the beauty that is created by the symbiosis between humanity and nature. Pretty brilliant!

Next, we come upon a little gem called “Island Reverie”. It is about a man returning to the island of his childhood and realising that he had never left…the most precious thing for him are the people. The film is so profound with artful gravitas that it can only speak for itself. Just take this line: “The golden light shining from within…revealing the weightlessness of the world.” The takeaway: learn to trust so that you can open your heart to new experiences. A must watch!

“A Maatram” (“A Change”) is a movie in which several lives are intertwined in the course of a day. From the initial few scenes, the film throws hints and suggestions of the connections between the various plot threads, which really are sub-plot threads. Although, I must admit the various sub-plots were not well delineated. In the attempt to “not give too much away”, the filmmakers hold back on the clarity of the intertwined connections. Although the connectivity is revealed in the end, the lack of more being revealed makes the film a little confusing.

“Fallin’”, another short, is through interpretive dance a kinetic expression of what love does, stands for, and means. In the end, however short the film was (five minutes), I had to think: “Okay, that was good.”

A very scintillating documentary on the list is “Aware: Glimpses of Consciousness”. Using premises such as “What is life?”, What is consciousness?”, “What does it mean to be aware of being aware?” the film deepens its adventure through the research of six experts in the field. Starting with these basic questions the film unfolds as a compellingly magical entity. The main crux is that consciousness is irreducible and is fundamental, not matter. The argument is that everything, including objects arise in consciousness, and that it is not consciousness that is emergent from the brain. The documentary is an odyssey that tries to portray consciousness as an all-pervading field. It is a journey to the final frontier of science and spirituality themselves—at the confluence of neuroscience, mysticism and metaphysics.

Alrighty then, I saved the best for last: “In the Light of Aurobindo—Plays and Savitri in Auroville”. It is about theatre and the artists involved who perform with devotion in, through and from the plays and the epic poem Savitri of Sri Aurobindo. The film delightfully dances with the inward thoughts, feelings and perceptions of the actors as they portray Sri Aurobindo’s works and the actual output on stage. Here, Sri Aurobindo’s work expresses the possibility (and inevitability) of human evolution. One actor cites the very act of performing takes the texts from the mere intellectual to being truly understood. Another says that he had to let go and trust the text. Yet another says acting became an immersion, a stepping into a hallowed, sacred space, which I saw manifested in the clips from the plays. The whole pivot of the documentary is how Sri Aurobindo’s works are purely, beautifully and powerfully put forth transforming the actors, the audience and the very space of the theatre, into a palpable collective experience. The refrain of the “invisible” sticks with me—the ineffability of the works coming to life with the actors as mediums and agents, at the same time, where their inwardness coheres with the collective expression of the piece acted out on stage.

Hey! My name is Gautam Emani. I moved to Auroville almost three months ago. I love the (once again, brace yourselves) “feel” of the place and find myself connecting with a lot of like-minded people, so I have decided to live here indefinitely. I hold an MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction) from New Mexico State University in the US. But please do check out the films I talked about—and as many of the ones I didn’t, as you can. This Film Festival will grant you sheer delight. I promise!

Peace n Love,

Gautam Emani

In a vibrant street performance, students from Pondicherry University’s Performing Arts Department bring the ancient Indian tale of “The Story of Prahalada” to life through Therukutthu. This captivating play combines folk songs, theatre, dance, and humor, creating an immersive experience for the audience. Set against a backdrop adorned with colorful designs, the story unfolds through expressive movements and powerful voices. Prahalada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, confronts the malevolent demon king Hiran-yakashipu in this tale. The performers, adorned in striking costumes and makeup, skillfully transform into various characters, enhancing the visual appeal of the performance. Rhythmic songs and traditional instruments enrich the experience, seamlessly blending acting, dance, and music. As the narrative progresses, the audience is transported to a divine realm where Lord Vishnu protects Prahalada by incarnating as Narasimha, a half-man, half-lion deity. The climax of the play features a gripping battle between the forces of good and evil. This Therukutthu show serves as a spiritual journey, underscoring the strength of faith and exploring the timeless struggle between light and darkness. It skillfully merges tradition and modern theatre, presenting Indian mythology and folklore in a clear, enjoyable manner. The performance offers an engaging, easy-to-understand rendition of the story in various languages, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Pls send us your photo and details (age, languages, experience etc.) to:
+91 8098362620 (WhatsApp only) or InLight.AV@gmail.com

Prior to Covid, the exhibition was reserved for female artists as it is International Women’s Day and Shakti is a female goddess that embodies the creative principle. However, there was a suggestion that such gender division was not appropriate in today’s world. So, the 2023 exhibition is open to all. It’s nice that this was adapted in such an uncomplicated way, although the topic will certainly be discussed further by the organizing team. The exhibition is accompanied by a series of workshops on various artistic practices, as well as presentations and a film series.

A little over 100 years ago, Sri Aurobindo asked: “Whether the future hope of the race lies in a rational and an intelligently mechanized or in a spiritual, intuitive and religious civilization and culture, – that, then, is the important issue.” In times of ChatGPT and an AI image generators, this question sounds topical again. What about the creative force, in 2023? Sri Aurobindo wrote in the same text:

“Whether we shall actually find a greater expression than the past gave us, depends on our own selves, on our capacity of response to the eternal Power and Wisdom and the illumination of the Shakti within us and on our skill in works, the skill that comes by unity with the eternal spirit we are laboring in the measure of our light to express; yogaḥ karmasu kauśalam.” (CWSA 20, p.76)

Sri Aurobindo is referring here to Indian art and culture, its self-understanding, its distinction from Western culture, and its mission. Shakti in us is what ‘still’ distinguishes us from AI.

Shakti is the driving, creative, creating force of consciousness. The certainty that we as humans are filled with a force infinitely more powerful than an algorithm, no matter how complex, is present in many parts of the world. And while Europe and the US are arguing about copyright, here Shakti is being evoked. How does that look?

I have seen many ‘last minute’ miracles. They are part of the cultural operation. Artists tend to be good at improvising. That may also has something to do with creativity. A few days before the exhibition opening, there was the last coordination meeting. An inventory was followed by setting up a WhatsApp group and a kind of evocation of Shakti, not in a ritualistic sense, rather in a brief discussion of how it should be understood, what kind of workshops can be set up, etc…. Everyone in the room agreed that something unique could be created. 

The exhibition had been announced for a long time, artists of the bioregion knew about it and were waiting for the starting signal. What followed in the coming days is hard to describe. A tsunami of creativity rolled towards Kalakendra Gallery, many volunteers helped, a self-organizing force seemed to be at work. As has been the case in Auroville, hierarchies were flat. Participation was straightforward, the energy collaborative, supportive, open. At the opening, the French Consul General of Pondicherry inaugurated the exhibition; short speeches were given on the theme of International Women’s Day and there were some quite critical tones regarding the global human rights situation. A tribute to the Holi festival, which fell on the same day, brought colour into play.

Curated by Silky, the show featured more than 50 artists from the region. The result was an exhibition that symphonically depicted the diversity of the region. The circular gallery literally vibrated and sang. A wide variety of styles were represented. Many artists expressed Western classical modernism, exploring spiritual symbols, or materials and techniques, as well as social issues. However, they did not lose themselves in a technical formalism, but brought in stories, classical motifs, traditions. Talking to some artists, it was fascinating to learn about their different paths.

Sathya is an artist from a surrounding village of Auroville, who felt the impulse to paint as a young child and learned impressionistic landscape painting from a master in Auroville. For over a decade, he explored the landscape of the bioregion, temple sites and viewpoints to meditate on in his painting of nature.

Kirti Chandak, an artist, the owner of TASMAI gallery in Pondicherry, and a graduate of the Sir Aurobindo Ashram School where she teaches art today, explores in her artwork the inner emotional landscape.

Gopal Jayaram, a very established painter who started his artistic career in South Africa, is presently the acting Director of IGNCA (The Indira Gandhi National Center of Arts Pondicherry chapter). He also took part in the exhibition and gave an opening talk. His journey as an artist is multifaceted, his work represented his abstract period.

Radja Perumal’s poetic abstract 3D works are vibrating structures mounted on canvas, that allow for a deep connection of the inner world of nature and the self.

Kashmira is an artist who picked up painting only in the last few years, but her composition, colour treatment and choice of subject are powerful and show a soul that wants to express itself.

Hufreesh Dumasia is an artist from Auroville who has shown internationally. Her work comes from a place of inner light and illuminated the exhibition.

Kalaivani’s large-scale cyanotypes illustrated the complexity of the medium.

Puneet Brar’s flower wall pieces were a wonderful example of the rich ceramic artist tradition in Auroville.

There is not enough space to give proper credit to all here. It was an event that built a solid bridge between Auroville and Pondicherry by showcasing the richness of the art scene in both cities as well as the bioregion villages.

Just a few of the workshops offered at Kalakendra gallery should be listed to complete the picture:

Grace offered a workshop on ‘Mahakali in Kolam Yoga’;
Claudia, ‘Floralis Humanity’;
Sri Amitabh Sen Gupta, ‘Slide Show & Discussion’;
Hand of God ‘Intuitive Drawing through Visual Expression’;
Kashmira & Anwar Khan, ‘Painting & Demo’;
United Tesla Hemp Company, ‘Handmade Hemp Paper’;
Kalai’s ‘Cvanotype Printing’;
Women Builder Collective, ‘Dorodango – Japanese Mud Art Workshop’;
Sridala and her father K.K.Segar gave individual workshops on acrylic painting;
Anand and Soukumarane gave an acrylic on canvas workshop;
Matej Ukmar gave a talk and slide show of his process of digital creations.

The atmosphere of these workshops was open, inviting, hands on and the participants enjoyed learning new creative techniques in an architecturally inspiring and unusual gallery setting. This former community dining room is circular with many open levels that invite these types of activities. It has an attached artist-in-residence studio which has received artists from Denmark, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Both Indian and international artists are invited to apply for short-term residency programs. To apply write to:  bharatnivas-kalakendra@auroville.org.in

The exhibition was on view at Kalakendra Gallery from March 8-April 2nd.

by Christoph Kluetsch 

for AV Art Service

This week at New Creation Dance Studio: Thursday and Friday at 7:30 pm. Call me for registration!
Deshik Vansadia is an alumni of The Stella Adler Acting Studio and The Shakespeare and Company of Massachusetts, where Deshik is still a member. He travels each year to work with them. 

In Mumbai, Deshik is the Shakespeare faculty at The Drama School Mumbai, a guest faculty at Whistling Woods and Mukti Manch. He is also a leading industry acting coach who has worked with projects by Netflix , Amazon studios and such.

Jill 9486416173

This Christmas, we invite you to an evening of local food, music, community, dance, live body art, fire, devotion, and celebration.
Music and Food bring people together!

Krishna’s band Emergence has played at Glastonbury festival, The Kenedy centre Washington DC, NUS Singapore and various festivals all over India.
Mahesh Vinayakaram, who has recently sung for A.R. Rahman’s new movie Ponniyan Selvan, along with Jazz Pianist Aman Mahajan joins Auroville drummer Suresh Bascara and prodigy bassist Dhani Muniz along with Krishna McKenzie, frontman of Emergence for an evening of the band’s original ‘Acoustic indo-pop’ with Tamil and English songs.

Anadhana, local food for 1000 people will be cooked with produce from Solitude and other Auroville farms and offered to all. This celebration will start with our community coming together and preparing the food at Solitude Farm Café.

https://solitude.farm/concert/

Before Sunset, pujaris will invoke blessings with a special pooja and Havan. Fires will be lit, and food will be served, along with an interactive performance by our own art collective emerging from the sacred fire.
We invite you to join in creating and celebrating this event together.
Many hands are needed to prepare the space, cook the food, set the stage, and help with the installations.
To volunteer please contact us at solitudepermaculture@gmail.com or on WhatsApp at +91 9843319260 (please specify community celebration)

The concert will be live streamed so no matter where you are in the world, you can join in and be here with us too!

Human Unity can be found in the simplest actions, People, Food, and Music. Come join us under the stars! Along with our Auroville community from across the globe, as we sow seeds of human unity.

We need your support to make this event happen. Please offer generously!

The link below is so easy to use:
https://solitude.farm/?form=emergence

Donations can also be made on the financial service PT account LYUE #252255

This Event is strictly Drug and Alcohol – Free*