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Breaking the Binary: Exploring Gender and Sexuality in Hindu Mythology

Austin Dance India presents Breaking the Binary: Exploring Gender and Sexuality in Hindu Mythology As far as we have come in our understanding of human identity, individuals are still forced into a binary definition of gender, leaving no room for individual choice. Ideas of what is male and what is female are generally polarized into definite characteristics and qualities. Additionally, human sexuality is often misunderstood to the point of becoming a subject that is tabooed in many cultures. Breaking the Binary explores ancient tales and figures from Hindu mythology that provide examples of how fluid these concepts actually can be even within a traditional context. Maha Kali, the Great Goddess, breaks all stereotypes as she manifests contrasting characteristics that push the boundaries of what is perceived as female. Ardhanareeshwara, a poem describing the half-woman and half-man form of Shiva displays gender fluidity within one body. Soma, the moon, and Agni, the fire deity, appear as male energies that are intrinsically attracted to each other. And finally, within the Durga Trilogy, goddess energy is further examined in three different aspects: 1. As Meenakshi, a warrior princess who presents with a non-normative body, 2. As Mari Amman, nurturing maternal energy that breaks all barriers of caste and creed, and 3. Para Shakti, the genderless and formless goddess energy that represents the ultimate power and truth within all. Cast and Crew: Concept and Artistic Direction: Anuradha Naimpally Consultant and Introduction: Pavithra Prasad Dancers: Soumya Ashok, Purna Bajekal, Anuradha Naimpally Assistant to the Director: Purna Bajekal M/C: Kai Bovik Lighting Design: Andrew Ward, Paint It Black (PIB) (@paintitblack_atx) Photography: Sadu Bajekal, Misty Danielle (mdgph.wordpress.com) Videography and Editing: @JayJayasuriya (www.jayjayasuriya.info) *This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department and the Austin Creative Alliance. We do not own the rights to the following music: Benjy Wertheimer; Priyagitah: The Nightingale, Raga Madhuvanti Rig Veda, Agni Skutam, Mark Winstanley; World Drums, African Handrums, Ilariharan Suyambu.