Karthik Manikandan’s ‘Enam’ explores the inner life of Maricha, the golden deer in ‘The Ramayana’
Dancer Karthik Manikandan has created a solo dance theatre production titled 'Enam' that explores the character of Maricha, the golden deer from the Ramayana. The performance blends Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, and folk elements to examine the complex motivations of the mythological figure.
Why it matters
It highlights contemporary artistic interpretations of classical Indian mythology and the evolution of traditional dance forms.
Maricha the charming golden deer appears only for a few fleeting moments in The Ramayana . But his story endures. Born to the demoness Tataka, Maricha’s life arc begins and ends with Rama. Ever since Rama’s arrow kills his brother Subahu, Maricha has nurtured a simmering grudge against Rama. It was only logical then to agree when his nephew Ravana sought his help in his grand ploy to abduct Sita. Because deep down, in his heart, he knew he wanted to die at Rama’s hands.
These contradictions in Maricha’s character come beautifully alive in Enam , a dance theatre production by Bharatanatyam artiste Karthik Manikandan. He transforms into deer with deft movements and expressions. Enam , Karthik’s first solo production, shows off his strengths as a dancer and actor. Having learnt Kathakali as well, Karthik blends various elements of dance and drama to build an engaging narrative.
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