‘Sumang: The Unison of Souls’, was a powerful dance performance that explored human connections through movement, music and emotion. Curated by Suparna Singh and Mahima Satsangi and choreographed by Dr. Shovana Narayan, the production beautifully captured the bonds that unite us all, says SAKSHI PRIYA
It’s not often that a performance makes you stop and reflect on the very nature of human connection. But as the lights dimmed and the first notes of music echoed through the Stein Auditorium, the audience was about to embark on a journey of deep emotional and spiritual resonance. Sumang: The Unison of Souls was far more than just a dance performance, it was a powerful reminder of the invisible threads that bind us all. Curated by Suparna Singh and Mahima Satsangi, disciples of the esteemed Padmashree Guru Dr. Shovana Narayan, this performance explored themes of love, friendship, spirituality and the universal connections that define our existence.
As the dancers took the stage, each movement seemed to carry a weight far beyond the steps themselves. The choreography, crafted by Dr. Shovana Narayan, told a story that wasn’t just visual but deeply felt. It was as if the dancers were reaching out to the audience, not with words, but with the very essence of human emotion. Complemented by the music of Murad Ali Khan and Shuheb Hasan, the performance became an all-encompassing experience. The music didn’t just accompany the dance; it gave voice to the unspeakable, carrying the audience through the highs and lows of the emotional journey unfolding on stage.
The musicians played with such sensitivity that their instruments became characters in the story, each note from the Sarangi, Sarod, Sitar, Flute and Tabla adding depth and texture to the dance. The performance was enhanced by the delicate lighting design of Sandeep Dutta, which shifted with every act, casting different moods across the stage, while the photography and video work by Innee Singh captured every moment with clarity and grace.
Dr. Shovana Narayan, who has spent decades exploring the spiritual and emotional depths of dance, shared her thoughts on the production. “As I watched Sumang, I was reminded of how dance can connect us on a level that words simply can't reach. This production is a tribute to the emotional and spiritual connections that make us human.” Her words highlighted the essence of the performance, a reminder that while we may struggle to put emotions into words, art has a way of expressing what we sometimes can't.
The production unfolded in four acts, each exploring a different aspect of human connection. From the quiet intimacy of Pratibimb, which delved into the relationship between confidants, to the divine unity explored in Alingan, the dance spoke to the depths of human interaction. In Sarvagya, the connection between teacher and disciple was honoured, and in the grand finale, Samagam, the interconnectedness of all beings was celebrated. Each act invited the audience to pause, to reflect on their own relationships and to recognise the deep bonds that unite us all, whether they are between friends, families, teachers, or the universal spirit that ties every soul together.
What made Sumang truly special was its ability to make each member of the audience feel personally connected to the story. The dance wasn’t just something to watch; it was an invitation to feel, to remember, and to understand. For Mahima Satsangi and Suparna Singh, this production was not just about showcasing their craft; it was about celebrating the profound beauty of human connection and the transformative power of dance. It was about creating a space where everyone could come together, share in the experience, and feel part of something much bigger than themselves.
In the end, Sumang left an indelible mark, not just because of its stunning choreography or soulful music but because it reminded us of the profound connections that shape our lives. In a world where we are constantly moving and rushing, this performance paused time for just a moment, inviting the audience to remember the ties that truly matter. It was a celebration of humanity, of shared experiences and of the deep connections that go beyond words, leaving everyone who witnessed it with a sense of unity and belonging.
