Essence of Life (dance group)


Essence of Life is a performing art group based in Bangalore, established by Dega Deva Kumar Reddy in 2012 to promote teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti.
Essence of Life is a synergy of five Indian classical dance forms - Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathak and Mohiniyattam. The group organized several dance performances across India in the past decade.

Naming

The name "Essence of Life" is inspired from Jiddu Krishnamurti's quote "Meditation is not a separate thing from life; it is the very essence of life, the very essence of daily living".

Philosophy

Inspired by Jiddu Krishnamurti's teachings, Dega Deva Kumar Reddy conceptualized and produced 'Essence of Life'. The dance form is based on basic human problems and emotions that Jiddu Krishnamurti often addressed in his talks and books - fear, suffering, jealousy, violence, hurt, love and death.
Prominent artists from established music and dance traditions across India came together to communicate Krishnamurti's teachings through Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathak and Mohiniyattam.

Theme

Art of Meditation

Dhyanasya Amukham - Introduction to Meditation
Dhyanasya Puravrttam - Myths of Meditation
Katham Jaagriti Jaayate - How does awareness come about
Dhyana kala - The art of meditation
Dhyanaartha kim yatharta maunam - What is true silence which leads to meditation

Essence of Life

Manovignaanam - Understanding our mind
Bhayaatah svatantramah - Freedom from fear
Samsayaa vina saadhyam kim jeevanam - Can we live without problem
Kim saadyam pumsaam parivarthanam - Can human being change
Rather saundaryam - Beauty of love

Finale

Thillana - Freedom from self

Dance form

Dance form | Ragam

Artists and Musicians

Concept

Dancers

Vocals

Instrumental