An enchanting exploration of the human heart, its desires, courage, and resilience, masterfully brought to life by the artistry of Aakash Odedra and Aditi Mangaldas

Mehek is a captivating contemporary dance performance that gives a voice to an unspoken and overlooked love story. Centered around a mature woman and a younger man, the dance delves deep into their intricate characters, challenging norms, and redefining the very essence of love. In this mesmerizing work, the stage transforms into a canvas where rhythmic tales of desire unfold, entwined with the elements of nature. The mirrors, akin to the calming waters of the sea, reflect the duality of their love story—the tranquil surface and the tumultuous waves beneath. Through these mirrors, the performance reveals that love is not only a personal journey within oneself but also a profound connection and exploration through the other.

Derived from the Hindi word for fragrance, the title Mehek alludes to the enduring power of memory and the essence of love itself. Aditi Mangaldas, dancing the first ever duet of her 50-year career, and Aakash Odedra weave a narrative that celebrates love in all its forms: raw, authentic, and infinitely resonant. The performers are two world-class Kathak dancers, and are the great South Asian dancers of their respective generations.

Mehek is created by Aakash Odedra Company and Aditi Mangaldas Dance Company / The Drishtikon Dance Foundation. It is co-produced by The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi and co-commissioned by: Sadler’s Wells; The Lowry, Salford; Birmingham Hippodrome and the Bagri Foundation.