26min Contemporary Operatic performance Art
Presented by Shalini Passi Art Foundation
Curated by Dr. Arshiya Lokhandwala
Performed at Alliance Francaise,
New Delhi, India
2019
Meera George
Still I Rise addresses the pronounced caste hierarchies of the place formerly known as Travancore (in present-day state of Kerala), whose nineteenth-century social politics operated in complex ways. In this society, attire and adornments served the purpose of acting as caste indicators and ‘outcaste’ women were disallowed from covering their upper body, as part of a tradition whereby the breast was bared as a symbol of respect to higher-status people – a caste-marker that would have resonated loudly in the public sphere.
Through her performance, the artist invokes the spirit of the many unsung heroines of her land, and pays tribute to their strength and valour in the fight for gender and caste equality. It is a testament to the evolution of this culture, while simultaneously questioning the extent to which attitudes have changed – when many women today are still forced to comply with the dress codes of a patriarchal society.
Through this short operatic narrative of four acts, George alludes to the traditions of native homeland, Kerala, by interweaving references to the practice of Kathakali (one of the major forms of classical India dance), Kalaraipayattu (an Indian martial art and fighting system), and Chavittu Nadakam (a colourful Latin Christian classical art form). The artist explores the nuances of these performing arts traditions, while incorporating similar traditions from Japan – influenced by her residency at the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum. Reflecting the performing traditions of both cultures, primarily dominated by ‘the stronger sex’, George challenges this history of patriarchy and brings with her an all-girl troupe to perform the piece Still I Rise.
Special thanks to the girls of NGO Protsahan India Foundation who worked tirelessly with the artist, to put their best foot forward, to transform into the women warriors of our day!
Piece written by Curator Dr. Arshiya Lokahandwala, Lakeeren Gallery.
