Lavanyavati: Reframing lavani through documentary theatre
The documentary theatre production 'Lavanyavati' aims to challenge negative stereotypes surrounding Lavani performers in Maharashtra. By using oral histories and personal narratives, the play seeks to reframe these women as independent and artistic entrepreneurs rather than victims or vamps.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of traditional performing arts, gender dynamics, and the need to deconstruct patriarchal narratives in cultural history.
A woman in a nine-yard sari, anklets tinkling as she dances to the beat of the dholki — for many, this is the image of lavani. But how much do we really know about the woman behind that image?
This will be the central question of Lavanyavati (a performer of lavani ), a documentary theatre production by Kali Billi Productions which will be performed at The Lab @ Shanta on October 1.
Lavani, an art form from Maharashtra, was traditionally performed by women from communities such as Bhatu, Kalwat and Dombari, many of whom are from nomadic or OBC (Other Backward Class) communities. Historically, while the performers have mostly been women, in spaces such as tamasha and sangeet bari, the audiences have largely been men from dominant communities.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in