Tiger Dance — Vishnu Vardhani Rajan

My performance, "Dance of the Fierce Tigress," is not merely a reimagining of the Puli Kuttam, the tiger dance of Telangana. It is a defiant roar, a tapestry woven from threads of tradition, spirituality, and social commentary. As a gender-agnostic person of color, I reclaim this art form, imbuing it with the voices of the marginalized, the echoes of forgotten struggles.

Through movement, I channel the divine feminine pantheon of India, from Durga's warrior spirit to Kali's transformative rage. But these deities are not just celestial beings; they are the embodiment of the feminine strength residing within every soul, particularly those silenced by oppression.

The vibrant hues adorning my skin are not mere decoration; they are battle cries. Turmeric yellow, the color of resilience, speaks of generations weathering hardship. Indigo swirls represent the yearning for equality, and crimson, the blood spilled in the fight for justice.

However, this dance is not solely fueled by anger. The intricate hand gestures and offerings woven into the performance pay homage to the land, the ancestors, and the enduring spirit of resistance. The scent of incense serves as a bridge between the past and present, reminding us of the struggles fought and the victories yet to be won.

My audience is not a passive observer; they are participants in this ritualistic rebellion. The hypnotic rhythm of the dhol draws them in, challenging them to confront the injustices woven into the fabric of society. In the hush that follows the final beat, a seed of hope is planted, a spark ignited by the defiant smile etched on my face.

"Dance of the Fierce Tigress" is not just a performance; it is a call to action. It is a reminder that the fight for equality and justice is a continuous dance, one that requires courage, grace, and unwavering faith in the power of the collective spirit. It is an invitation to join the movement, to raise your voice, and dance for a world where every voice is heard, every life valued, and every soul free.

Eco Sexual Energies

Rouge et Noire