“Social awareness is your ability to accurately pick up on emotions in other people and understand what is really going on with them.” This profound quote by Travis Bradberry set the tone for Quest: The Journey of Untold Stories, a compelling dance theatre production performed at Apparel House, Gurgaon, on December 6, 2024.
Directed by the celebrated Kathak artist Jayashree Acharya, Quest is a groundbreaking amalgamation of Indian classical and contemporary dance forms transcending traditional storytelling (Katha). Jayashree’s recent production was contemporary storytelling, a reflection of current society’s vices.
The dance, Quest, weaves together the stories of three extraordinary women—a cancer survivor, an acid attack survivor, and a human trafficking survivor—each embodying unyielding courage, resilience, and the will to rise above life’s adversities.
Voices of Resilience, Stories of Courage
The production is brought to life by three exceptional performers: Jayashree Acharya herself, alongside the immensely talented Shohini Dutta and Elisha Deep Garg. Together, they channel the emotions and journeys of these survivors, taking the audience on a poignant exploration of pain, perseverance, and transformation.
“This isn’t just a performance; it’s a movement,” shares Acharya. “We hope to foster empathy and inspire meaningful change by bringing these marginalised stories to the forefront. Our ‘Quest’ is for inclusivity, acceptance, and compassion.” The perfectly blended music to the stories enhanced the emotions as the dancers emoted their characters.
With a masterful blend of Kathak’s traditional elegance and contemporary dance’s expressive freedom, the production evokes raw emotions, inviting the audience to reflect on societal issues that often remain in the shadows.
The Visionary Behind the Quest
Jayashree Acharya, the visionary behind Quest, is no stranger to breaking boundaries—a disciple of the legendary Pt. Birju Maharaj has dedicated her life to Kathak, performing across prestigious platforms such as the Khajuraho Mahotsav and the Kumbh Mela. In 2008, she founded Rasik Performing Arts in Gurgaon, where she has nurtured countless students in the art of Kathak. Her commitment to storytelling through dance continues to redefine the medium, making it a powerful tool for social commentary and empowerment.
Dancing Through Darkness into Light
The stories told in Quest are more than narratives; they are mirrors reflecting societal challenges. Cancer, acid attacks, and human trafficking are issues that have scarred individuals and societies alike. Yet, through the power of dance, these survivors are no longer portrayed as victims but as symbols of hope and strength.
The recital’s themes of reclaiming identity and rising like a phoenix resonated deeply with the audience. Each movement and rhythm told a story of breaking free, standing tall, and rebuilding life mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
“This performance is for every woman who has faced injustice and fought back with dignity. It’s a reminder that you are more than your scars; you are a beacon of light and resilience,” says Acharya.
Present in the audience were individuals who have faced the stigma of social evils and are live stories of courage and extraordinary inspiration. It was heartening to see at the event Pinki Malik, the chief administrator of One Stop Centre, Gurgaon and women from Sheroes Café (managed by acid attack survivors), amongst others.
A Call for Change
Quest is not just an artistic endeavour; it’s a call to action. Shedding light on these untold stories challenges societal norms and urges everyone to contribute towards a more compassionate world. The message is clear: rise, rebuild, and shine, for no setback can dim the light within.
As the curtains fell, the audience rose to their feet, moved by the sheer power of storytelling and the indomitable spirit of the women whose stories had been told. The night was a testament to the transformative power of art—a reminder that while scars may tell stories of pain, they also narrate tales of survival and strength.
Quest is not just a journey of untold stories; it is a dance of redemption, a celebration of resilience, and a step towards a more inclusive world.
