Nritya Duende

When Ancient Rhythm Meets Passionate Strings

“Two souls, two traditions, one transcendent conversation.”

Apeksha Niranjan, the “Queen of Expressions” presents NRITYA DUENDE — a breathtaking amalgamation where classical Bharatanatyam dance meets the passionate strings of Flamenco guitar. In this 90-minute performance, the intricate footwork and expressive storytelling of Bharatanatyam finds its perfect musical companion in the soulful, rhythmic intensity of Spanish Flamenco, creating a dialogue between two ancient art forms.

Nritya — Sanskrit for dance, the embodiment of movement, expression, and storytelling.
Duende — A Spanish concept describing the mystical power of art to move the soul, that rare
moment when performer and audience are seized by something beyond technique.

About Flamenco

Flamenco is an emotive art form from Southern Spain, born in the Andalusian region, that combines singing (cante), dancing (baile), and guitar playing (toque). Known for its passionate intensity, complex rhythms, and deep emotional expression, Flamenco is characterized by its distinctive guitar techniques, intricate footwork, and the raw, visceral power it evokes in both performer and audience. The Flamenco guitar, with its percussive strumming patterns and melodic flourishes, creates a rich tapestry of sound that drives the emotional narrative of the performance.

The Guitarist: Sanjeev Shri

A professional Flamenco guitarist based in Bhopal, Sanjeev Shri brings authentic Spanish Flamenco to Indian stages. Trained at the prestigious Fundación Cristina Heeren in Sevilla — the birthplace of Flamenco — he has mastered both the intricate techniques and emotional depth of this demanding art form.

Rooted equally in Hindustani classical music, Sanjeev is the pioneer of jugalbandi between Spanish Flamenco and Indian classical traditions. As the founder of Baithak – The Art House, Bhopal’s celebrated alternative performance space, he has built a unique artistic language where his guitar doesn’t merely accompany — it converses.

He is currently visiting faculty for Flamenco rhythms at Azim Premji University, Bhopal, and selectively conducts lessons and workshops in Flamenco guitar.

The Experience

Audiences witness:

A testament to the spontaneity and emotional depth that defines both Bharatanatyam and Flamenco:

A Dialogue Between Traditions — The intricate footwork and precise movements of Bharatanatyam responding to the passionate strumming and soulful melodies of Flamenco guitar

Musical and Physical Conversation — The guitarist and dancer engaging in spontaneous moments of call and response, where music inspires movement and movement inspires music

Emotional Depth — From spiritual devotion to raw passion, exploring the full spectrum of human emotion through two powerful artistic mediums

Technical Brilliance — The complexity of both art forms on full display, as Apeksha’s expressive mastery meets Sanjeev Shree’s guitar virtuosity, supported by talented musicians who create a rich, immersive soundscape.

Rhythmic Interplay — Intricate dance patterns, from Bharatanatyam’s nattadavus to Flamenco’s compás, weaving seamlessly together into a tapestry of rhythm that feels both ancient and entirely new.

Visual and Sonic Beauty — Carefully designed lighting and sound enhance every moment, creating a complete sensory experience that stays with audiences long after the performance ends

NRITYA DUENDE is open for tours — cultural festivals, arts festivals, and cross-cultural stages everywhere. If this conversation between two worlds resonates with your vision, let’s create something together. Reach out, and let the music find its next home.