Edition 5
2023
Stories are an archaic form of life, timeless vessels that carry the essence of our existence. They transcend time and space, weaving a tapestry of human experiences that serve as mirrors reflecting the society we live in. They hold the power to shape our perceptions, challenge our beliefs, and ignite our imagination. In their many forms, stories reveal the intricate layers of our shared humanity. They expose the triumphs and tribulations, the joys and sorrows, and the conflicts and resolutions that shape our lives. Whether whispered around campfires in ancient civilizations or inscribed on parchment in medieval times, stories have always been an integral part of our journey as a species. Every story is a unique reflection of who we are as individuals and as a collective. They offer glimpses into the intricacies of our cultures, beliefs, and values. They capture the beauty of diversity, celebrating the myriad perspectives that enrich our world. They remind us of our common struggles, fostering empathy and understanding that can bridge divides and build connections. Through the medium of art, the people of the society get a voice to tell tales of their happiness, share their sorrows and reflect upon their hardships. Through Abhivyakti, we provided a platform to witness unheard stories and bring the community closer. This communication helped share their message with the people while also providing an insight into the ‘why’ of this endeavour. It highlighted the efforts made by the project to bring every story to life.
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Days of
Preparation
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Artists Spoken to
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Artists Showcased
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Projects During
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Performances
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Visual Arts
Installations
All
Dance
Music
Theatre
Visual Arts
Literature
Mentors
Chirag Modi
Daksha sheth
Daksha Sheth is one of India's most innovative and progressive dance artists. Trained in Kathak by Padma Bhushan Kumudini Lakhia, Mayurbhanj Chhau by Guru Krishna Chandra Naik, and Kalaripayattu by Guru Govindankutty Nair, she draws on indigenous traditions including mallakhambh to build a distinctly physical dance language. Her choreographic practice, developed through her Trivandrum-based company, has earned recognition across the world. The Daksha Sheth Dance Company has performed in over 30 countries.
K Sumant
A luminary pianist and composer from the K. Music Conservatory, K. Sumant has spent over a decade transforming the Indian music landscape. Since 2005, he has masterfully blended classical virtuosity with contemporary innovation, collaborating across India's musical spectrum. His magnum opus, "Advaitam" for Abhivyakti Edition 5 exemplifies his visionary approach—a mesmerising fusion of traditional melodies and modern sensibilities. His versatility further shines through his music direction for the Gujarati feature film "Yaa Devi Sarva Bhuteshu". In Edition 6, Sumant continues to challenge musical boundaries, promising audiences a tantalising journey of novel rhythms and authentic expression. More than a musician, he is a creative beacon inspiring peers and listeners to reimagine musical possibilities.
Nabibaksh Mansoori
Nabibakhsh Mansoori was born in 1966 in Idar, Gujarat. He completed his Diploma in Fine Arts from Ahmedabad (1990) and Post Diploma in Fine Arts from M.S. University, Baroda (1992). He is one of the distinguished recipients of the Bendre-Husain Scholarship of the Bombay Art Society. Nabibakhsh Mansoori’s paintings are exuberant and at times, surreal. He looks at the world through the kaleidoscope of colour: his skewed and layered imagery often throws the viewer off balance to make them take a second look at the work, drawing them into his world. Dramatic use of light, unconventional perspective and bold, crisp colour is a hallmark of his paintings. In his desire to recreate the bright colours seen through the prism, Nabibakhsh uses his preferred medium, which is oil on canvas. Nabibakhsh Mansoori has participated in many solo and group shows within India and abroad. His works are a part of many prestigious collections globally. The artist lives and works from his studio in Ahmedabad.
Rajat Dholakia
Presented with numerous national awards and the composer of over 300 popular jingles, Rajat Dholakia, aka Juku, is a multi-faceted musician and sound designer. While he is primarily self-taught in the field of melodies, his musical routes trace back to a broad spectrum of influences. From Indian classical to Western classical to Gujarati and Hindi film music - Rajat’s harmonic rhythms have left remarkable footprints in all these genres! Currently working on composing Western classical and fusion symphonies, his accolades include the conferring of the National Film Award for the best music director for Dharavi in 1991 and for Sunday in 1992. A committed and dedicated music composer with his feet held firmly on the ground, but talent touching the skies, Rajat Dholakia profoundly navigated his musical path, carrying forward his melodious family legacy. Renowned for his work in Mirch Masala (1987), Holi (1985), and Firaaq (2008), his contribution to Bollywood by introducing Chattisgarhi music is a prominent milestone in both his career and the history of Bollywood music. He also collaborated with the music maestro, A.R. Rahman, on the song ‘Genda Phool’ (Delhi 6, 2009) bringing influences of Chattishgarhi music into the song. Another feather on his musical career cap is his sound design and music contribution to around 8000 commercial and public service films at national and international levels.
Saumya Joshi
Saumya Joshi wears many creative hats. He is an award-winning playwright, director, actor, and poet. Known for his powerful storytelling, Saumya Joshi has made his mark in theatre, films, and screenwriting. His critically acclaimed play, 'Welcome Zindagi' with more than 1000 shows in Gujarati, a successful run in Hindi, and his work as a lyricist for the chart-breaking song "Khalasi" are where he skilfully crafts compelling narratives. His most celebrated work, 102 Not Out, has been performed over 600 times across India and abroad. It was also adapted into a popular film starring Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor.
Curators
Bhargav Purohit
Bhargav Purohit is a singer, composer, writer and director whose musical journey is rooted in the belief that quality of lived experience elevates art. From jingles and live performances to film composition and screenwriting, he has received awards affirming his exceptional talent. At Abhivyakti, he fosters genuine dialogue between artists and audiences, creating a space where collaborations push music into unexpected territory and new sounds emerge from the intersection of tradition and imagination.
Chirag Modi
Chirag Modi's love for theatre is a vivid extension of his personality and creative spirit. Though theatre found him by chance, it has become central to his life. His original productions — Dost, Mare Rashtragan Vechvu Chhe and Mujhe Fir Ek Baar Mujhe Dekhna Hai — reveal his gift for stories that need to be told. With over 17 years of experience as a playwright, director and mentor, he founded Ouroboros, Ahmedabad's first black box theatre, where he has nurtured countless emerging artists.
Dhara Dave Vyas
Dhara Dave Vyas developed a love for art and colour in childhood, exploring drawing, clay, metal and paper mache before deepening her understanding through Art History and Aesthetics. A graduate of the Faculty of Fine Arts at M.S.U. Baroda, she is fascinated by the intangible, seeking to capture the essence of what defies easy explanation. Her artistic vision challenges the biases that cloud our perception of beauty. As Visual Arts Curator at Abhivyakti, she brings both scholarly depth and genuine creative passion.
Jaimil Joshi
Jaimil Joshi is an established dancer, fashion choreographer, line producer and creative director who has mastered the art of expression on stage. He believes dance is a power unlike any other, capable of communicating what words cannot. His thought process extends beyond everyday experience, striving to expose audiences to realities they rarely confront. With a keen eye for spotting talent, Jaimil approaches his role as curator at Abhivyakti with a mission to bring something genuinely revolutionary to the city.
Kathanki Raval Sheth
Kathanki Raval Sheth is a dancer and performing arts practitioner who joined Abhivyakti as Assistant Dance Curator in Edition 5, bringing a fresh and attentive perspective to the curation process. With a grounding in classical and contemporary dance, she approaches her work with care and an eye for artists whose voices add something genuinely new to the city's arts landscape. Her involvement with Abhivyakti reflects both her passion for performance and her commitment to nurturing it in others.
