Blending philosophy, movement, and mythology, this Mohiniyattam performance explores the elemental forces of Prakriti (nature/ feminine) and Purusha (consciousness/ masculine). At its heart lies Nagathtwam, a piece inspired by Kundalinipaattu, the poetic work of Sri Narayana Guru, which portrays the awakening of spiritual energy through the image of the serpent (Naga) – a symbol of dormant potential.  

Here, the dancer embodies Lord Shiva’s Ananda Nritha – the blissful cosmic dance – performed before the Naga, representing the rise of inner energy towards enlightenment. The choreography unfolds as a meditative yet powerful ascent, where rhythm, movement, and emotion converge, dissolving the boundaries of space and time. What begins as duality transforms into unity, echoing the soul’s journey into transcendence. 

‘Sopana Nrityam’ comes to life through spellbinding choreography by Jayaprabha Menon; concept, lyrics, music, and curated pieces by Padma Bhushan Kavalam Narayana Panikker; and masterful direction by Kavalam Padmanabhan. One of the leading voices in Mohiniyattam today, Menon brings decades of training and collaboration – from her foundational work with Bharati Shivaji and Panikker to her performances alongside Pt. Birju Maharaj and Vidushi Sonal Mansingh – into a presentation that honours tradition while expanding its expressive reach.