Gender and Performance in V. Shantaram’s Navrang

Abstract

Aim: This paper explores the evolving role of women as central performers in Indian dance, with a focus on V. Shantaram's Navrang. Rooted in the Indian Peoples' Theatre Association (IPTA) legacy, which reshaped public performance by merging theater, regional cultures, and urban-rural sensibilities, it reflects the transformative impact on gender dynamics.

Methodology and Approach: The paper views the musical sequences in 'Navrang' as a form of gender discourse. It examines how these performances convey complex messages about gender roles, identities, and power dynamics within the cultural and cinematic context. Drawing from cultural criticism, the paper analyzes the cultural signifiers present in the film, including symbols, rituals, and representations of Indian culture. It explores how these cultural elements contribute to the construction of gender identities in the narrative.

Outcome: The paper showcases how the film emerges as a significant cultural artifact that transcends conventional gender roles within Indian dance. The analysis also demonstrates the strategic positioning of personal narratives within larger frameworks of mythological belief systems and community living. It’s overlapping with the IPTA artistic movement and the affinity of its makers with IPTA contextualists it within the larger socio-politico-cultural environment of the time.

Conclusion and Suggestion: This paper has explored the film's profound impact on gender dynamics within Indian dance, particularly in its musical sequences. 'Navrang' transcends conventional gender roles, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of its time. IPTA's influence on Indian dance is unmistakable, with women emerging as central performers, challenging traditional norms. The film's musical sequences serve as compelling narratives, blending mythology, community life, and cultural beliefs. This paper invites further research into the enduring impact of IPTA and cinema in reshaping societal perceptions of gender, urging us to embrace a more inclusive and liberated vision of the performing arts.