Aakash Odedra & Aditi Mangaldas: Mehek

The world premiere of a new dance piece, devised and performed by two of the pre-eminent South Asian dancers of their time – Aakash Odedra, well known to Abu Dhabi audiences from previous visits; and Aditi Mangaldas, a dancer and choreographer long recognised both for her skill and for bringing a contemporary evolution to Kathak dance.

Derived from the Hindi word for fragrance, the title Mehek alludes to the enduring power of memory and the essence of love itself. Aditi Mangaldas, dancing the first ever duet of her 50-year career, and Aakash Odedra weave a narrative that celebrates love in all its forms: raw, authentic, and infinitely resonant.

Mehek is described as “an enchanting exploration of the human heart, its desires, courage, and resilience, masterfully brought to life”; the piece gives a voice to a story that is often regarded as contentious, love between a mature woman and a younger man. The stage transforms into a canvas where rhythmic tales of desire unfold, entwined with the elements of nature; the use of mirrors in the set literally reflects the duality of a tranquil surface above and the tumultuous waves beneath.

Mehek is at The Arts Center for two performances, with a second show on 8 February. As part of its Off the Stage series, The Arts Center will also be hosting a dance workshop with Aakash Odedra on 9 February at 6.30pm; request an invitation here.

Mehek is created by Aakash Odedra Company and Aditi Mangaldas Dance Company / The Drishtikon Dance Foundation, and is presented with the support of Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels. It was co-commissioned by The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi Sadler’s Wells; The Lowry, Salford; Birmingham Hippodrome; and the Bagri Foundation.

magpie interviewed Aakash Odedra in advance of the performance; read the feature here.