Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise presents Chitrangada and Nayika Bhoomika at PVLF in New Delhi, marks national milestone

New Delhi, January 19, 2026 — Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise brought two of its major dance dramas, Chitrangada – Ek Sashakt Nari and Nayika Bhoomika, to a national audience at the Pragati Vichar Literature Festival 2026, with performances held at the Little Theatre Group auditorium in Mandi House on January 17 and January 18 respectively. The showcases were presented as part of PVLF’s cultural programme, supported by Frontlist Media.

The back to back presentations marked a significant moment for the company, placing both productions within a literary festival setting that draws writers, publishers and readers from across the country. PVLF has positioned itself as a platform where literature is engaged not only through discussion and debate, but also through performance. The inclusion of theatre and dance has been a growing part of the festival’s programming, and this year’s edition saw strong attendance across sessions and performances.

Tony Chakraborty and Madhumita Chakraborty direct both dance dramas with a clear sense of focus, keeping movement and narrative closely aligned. Their choices favour restraint over excess, allowing the dance to carry meaning without unnecessary flourish. This is supported well by the technical team. Santanu Bhattacharya’s music holds the emotional thread togethe. Lighting by Abhishek Narayan and Chetan Dhawale, along with Kailash Shelar’s sets, gives the productions scale while staying out of the performers’ way.

The first evening featured Chitrangada – Ek Sashakt Nari, IME’s interpretation of Rabindranath Tagore’s warrior princess. The production, which marked her first formal entry onto the stage last year, was presented in New Delhi with greater composure and refinement. Audiences responded warmly to the clarity of movement and the emotional restraint that has come to define the work in its later stagings.

The following evening saw the presentation of Nayika Bhoomika, a continuous dance drama that weaves together four Tagore narratives, Chokher Bali, Chandalika, Kabuliwala and Maan Bhanjon. Performed without breaks, the production sustained audience attention through its measured pacing and ensemble-driven storytelling.

Indrani Mukerjea stood at the centre of both evenings, with her performances reflecting a visible growth in confidence and stage presence. From the assertive strength of Chitrangada to the layered emotional landscapes of Nayika Bhoomika, her work demonstrated a widening range and a deeper engagement with character and form.

Speaking after the performances, Mukerjea said, “Taking both these productions to PVLF felt like a natural progression for us. The festival attracts audiences who are deeply invested in ideas, stories and literature. Presenting our work in that environment, and seeing how attentively it was received, has been both encouraging and affirming for the entire company.”

The cast and creative team were also acknowledged for their contribution. In Nayika Bhoomika, Manini De’s work as the Sutradhar stood out for its precision and control, while Aakriti Sharma’s performance drew appreciation for its grounded energy and emotional clarity.

Kapil Gupta, Director and Founder of the Pragati Vichar Literature Festival, as well as of Solh Wellness and Frontlist Media, welcomed the collaboration, saying, “PVLF aims to create a meeting point for literature and live performance. Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise brought two thoughtfully crafted productions to the festival, and the response from audiences has shown that there is strong interest in seeing literary narratives interpreted on stage.”

The successful New Delhi showcases underline Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise’s expanding national presence and its commitment to building a repertory rooted in literary adaptation and ensemble performance. With both productions now reaching audiences beyond Mumbai, IME continues to chart a clear and steady path in contemporary Indian theatre.