Mon Mar 24 02:43:30 UTC 2025: ## Lavani Dance Production, “Lavanyavati,” to Premiere in Bengaluru
**Bengaluru, March 24, 2025** – A vibrant and immersive performance showcasing the evolution of Lavani, a traditional Maharashtrian folk dance form, is set to premiere in Bengaluru. “Lavanyavati,” directed by Savitri Medhatul, founder of Kali Billi Productions, promises a sassy, classy, and entertaining spectacle blending peppy dholak beats with the rhythmic clinking of ghungroos.
Medhatul, a classical dancer and documentary filmmaker, has collaborated with Lavani artists since 2006 to create this production, which explores the art form’s rich history over the past 250 years. The performance will delve into the evolution of Lavani’s music, dance, attitude, and unstoppable energy.
Lavani, known for its flirtatious elements and playful pushing of boundaries, is often misinterpreted as mere “item numbers,” Medhatul explains. However, she emphasizes its capacity to address serious issues with humor, and its inherent message of liberation and breaking free from conventions.
The production will trace Lavani’s journey from its origins in a patriarchal society, where men initially performed in women’s attire, to its embrace by women who infused it with their perspectives. The show will also highlight the resurgence of male Lavani dancers in the 1990s.
“Lavanyavati” incorporates Lavani songs, oral histories, archival photographs, and collaborative projects with artist Paromita Vohra. The performance, originally commissioned by the Serendipity Arts Festival and already showcased at several major festivals, will be presented in both English and Marathi. The show features vocals by Sangeeta Panchal and Shubham Sutar.
“Lavanyavati” will be staged at Jagriti Theatre on March 25th at 7:30 pm. Tickets, priced at ₹500, are available on BookMyShow. The show is open to audiences aged 12 and above.
First Piper 