Artist's Statement

I draw from my experience as a member of the Tamil diaspora and a migrant in Australia when creating Vesham. My life has been a tapestry of cultural adjustment, often woven with threads of confusion and loss. Growing up under the watchful eyes of parents deeply rooted in Tamil traditions, I navigated the complexities of a Western environment that often felt at odds with my heritage. In the midst of countless “don’t do this” and “that’s not how we do it,” I found myself grappling with my identity and authenticity.

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This journey of self-discovery led me to delve deeper into my own culture and the broader South Asian narrative through the platform of Shastram. As I explored, I uncovered layers of complexity that revealed hidden taboos and dichotomies, prompting the creation of *Vesham*.

 

This work is an exploration of the desire for authenticity, a longing that resonates deeply with many marginalised communities. Each story within this production represents unspoken voices and hidden perspectives, shedding light on experiences that are often overlooked.

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In Mahari which explores *Sringaram*, we ponder the connections between an Islamic Rajput King and a Mahari from Orissa, exploring how the poetry of Rumi and the verses of Jayadeva converge on themes of love and divinity.

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Onnam Aatakari explores *Karuna* and invites us to reflect on the duality of colonisation, revealing that history is rarely one-sided. 

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Gurtimpu exploring *Rowdram* raises critical questions about the appropriation of Indian classical dance, acknowledging "cinema" the unsung heroes of this art form.

 

Sem Mann in the flavour of *Veeram*, we examine how refugees from Sri Lanka found solace in art, using it as a means to retain their identity in a foreign land. 

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Khamoosha which delves into *Bhibatsam*  confronts the shame surrounding victims of sexual violence, challenging the societal norms that persistently silence women.

 

Mayula explores *Bhayanagam* asks what sacrifices women must endure in pursuit of their dreams, especially in light of the #MeToo movement. 

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Jala embraces *Hasyam* and embodies the resilience of self-reliance, urging us to take action when no one else will.

 

Sanketam portrays *Atpudam*, we celebrate the beauty of difference, sharing the journey of a Eunuch embracing their true self. 

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The journey culminates in the story of Raghav Sharma, who, like many of us, struggles with the pressures to conform. Through *Vesham*, he unearths his truth, shedding societal masks and embracing authenticity. This journey, framed by the nine emotions of *navarasas*, leads him to a moment of peace—*Shanthi*—that resonates with all of us navigating our identities.

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Ultimately, this production aims to create a space where we can all feel comfortable in our own skin, transcending the limitations of societal and cultural expectations. May this journey inspire us to embrace our truths, fostering understanding and connection among diverse narratives.