"I'm from Odisha,' she said. The young woman approached me at the end of the premiere of my production प्रवास - Pravaas - A Migrant's Tale.
"I could relate so strongly to the story of Bijoy that you narrated. It is my story in many ways.' Her words filled me with gratitude.
Typically, I'm a bundle of nerves before a performance, ensuring everything is perfect. My kids like to tease me, saying 'Earth calling mom!' But once the music starts, the butterflies fade and the audience disappears - there's only the music and my accompanists. Of course, I 'return' to the auditorium at the end of each piece.
The audience plays a big role in Indian classical music performances, keeping time, nodding along, and even humming. This young woman's connection reminded me that music and storytelling can transcend the individual and create a sense of universal belonging. The evening was already fulfilling, but her words gave me a deep gratitude.
Here is a song from the Pravaas show
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