Indian classical dancers, live orchestra to bring epic Ramayana to life in Kuala Lumpur

The Mahavidya Dance Theatre will stage Ayodhya Putra at the Kala Mandapam in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur on June 28.

KUALA LUMPUR: The timeless epic of the Ramayana is set to be reimagined in Kuala Lumpur this month, blending classical Indian dance with modern accessibility features and a deeply rooted community mission.

On June 28, the Mahavidya Dance Theatre will stage Ayodhya Putra at the Kala Mandapam in Brickfields. The production promises a vivid, emotionally charged rendition of Prince Rama and Sita’s triumph of light over darkness, brought to life by a company of 21 dancers and a distinguished live orchestra.

While originating as an ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana holds a unique, enduring place across Southeast Asia. Over centuries, the narrative has woven itself into the regional cultural fabric, evolving into distinct local versions such as Thailand’s Ramakien, Indonesia’s Kakawin Ramayana, and Malaysia’s own Hikayat Seri Rama.

By focusing on universal themes of duty, sacrifice, and self-discovery, Ayodhya Putra aims to resonate with a modern, multicultural audience. To ensure the story’s intricate emotional sweeps and dramatic arcs are completely accessible to all theatergoers, the production will feature a digital screen providing English subtitles throughout the performance.

Choreographed by Mahavidya Dance Theatre’s founder, Sheela Raghavan, the production is anchored in the expressive and intense Vazhuvoor style of Bharatanatyam.

A major highlight of the evening will be the inclusion of Suddha Nrittam, often celebrated as the pinnacle of “pure dance.” In these highly technical segments, dancers do not move to a melodic tune but rather sync their movements to the complex, thunderous patterns of live percussion—a test of sheer discipline, stamina, and artistic precision.

The accompanying live ensemble will perform works by celebrated composers Papanasam Sivan and Nirmala Raghavan. The orchestra features a lineup of traditional talent, including Brahmashri J.J. Prathap Sharma on the mridangam (double-sided drum), Aravind on percussion, Suganya Jegathesan Sharma on vocals, and Hariraam Tingyuan Lam on the violin.

Beyond its onstage ambitions, the production carries a vital social mandate. The Mahavidya Dance Theatre operates a community initiative providing classical dance education entirely free of charge to children from underprivileged and struggling families.

Proceeds and public support from Ayodhya Putra will directly fund and sustain these free classes, ensuring that the next generation of young dancers has access to cultural education regardless of their financial background.

For more information, WhatsApp +6016-225 6993 or visit Instagram @mahavidyadance or Facebook facebook.com/mahavidyadance