Keli@35: Art Intersections and Confluences in Gender
Keli@35 explores the dynamic intersections between art and diverse fields of knowledge,including history, anthropology, sociology, politics, and cultural studies. Every art form evolves through continuous transformations in aesthetics, practices, performance traditions, material cultures, sites of presentation, audience engagement, and intercultural exchanges. These intersections and confluences have consistently shaped artistic innovation and enriched India's cultural heritage.
Through this landmark initiative, Keli seeks to investigate how artistic practices respond to changing social realities while fostering meaningful dialogue between tradition and contemporary thought. The project examines the forces that influence artistic creation, performance, interpretation, and public participation, highlighting the role of art as a powerfulmedium of cultural exchange and social reflection.
Moving beyond conventional academic presentations and standard performance formats, Keli@35 presents an interdisciplinary platform that brings together artists, scholars, researchers, cultural practitioners, and audiences through a rich blend of performances, conversations, lectures, screenings, exhibitions, demonstrations, and interactive sessions.
The initiative is structured around six interconnected thematic dimensions:
Body
Music and Sound
Gender
Sites and Spaces
Time
Public Engagement
These themes explore the ways in which art transcends disciplinary and cultural boundaries,generating new perspectives and creative possibilities. By engaging with evolving social contexts, historical narratives, and cross-cultural influences, the programme seeks to illuminate the enduring relevance of artistic traditions in contemporary society.
Each event is conceived not only as an aesthetic experience but also as an opportunity for critical reflection, learning, and meaningful public engagement.
In Memoriam: Maa Annapoorna
The extraordinary life and uncompromising musical journey of Maa Annapoorna continue to inspire profound reflection on the challenges faced by exceptionally gifted women artists within social and gendered structures. Her lifelong dedication to artistic excellence, coupled with her quiet withdrawal from the public stage, raises important questions about recognition,opportunity, and the invisible barriers that have shaped the lives of many women performers.
The immeasurable artistic loss resulting from such exclusions deserves thoughtful dialogue among artists, scholars, and society at large. By remembering Maa Annapoorna, Keli@35 reaffirms its commitment to fostering conversations on equity, artistic freedom, and the creation of a more inclusive cultural future.
This entire series of programmes is dedicated to her cherished memory.
The detailed programme schedule will be announced in November.
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