Durga Venkatesan in Touchy Topic | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
In Sentimental themesIn an artistically innovative and emotionally thought-provoking performance, Durga Venkatesan explores the pervasive issue of sexual harassment through non-verbal means. The performance transcends traditional theatrical boundaries by immersing the audience in an active role.
In Sentimental themesDurga stands motionless for the entire 60 minutes, allowing the audience to interact with her in a highly personal way. Participants are invited to approach the performer and leave their mark with white paint on any part of her body where they have been touched inappropriately. She explains that this silent exchange transforms the audience from mere spectators to “spect-actors” who actively shape the performance with their personal stories and emotions.
The idea came from a 10-day workshop she conducted in Mumbai, which focused on creating solo performances inspired by personal experiences. “This sparked a desire in me to explore the issue of inappropriate touching, which I unfortunately faced while living in Delhi. Safety, or the lack of it, is constantly taught to us,” Durga says over the phone from Bengaluru.
Durga explains, “I chose a non-verbal approach for this piece because many of us know that talking about inappropriate touching and sexual assault can be incredibly difficult. We may lack confidence or not feel safe enough to speak up. Just like me, many people struggle to express these experiences. This is where creativity comes into play.”
Durga Venkatesan in Touchy Topic | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
“This performance is extremely personal to me,” says Venkatesan. “It stems from a long history of inappropriate touching that began when I was five years old. This performance is my way of creating a space for others to express themselves, perhaps for the first time.”
This performance is not only about the artist’s experience, but serves as a profound moment for the audience as well. “For victims, it can be a step toward acknowledging and accepting their experiences,” she says. “For others who have not experienced inappropriate touching or harassment, the sheer number of participants can be a revelation, creating awareness and empathy. Seeing silent stories can fuel both anger and a desire to make a change.”
Durga’s work is about bravery and vulnerability. Her personal journey and the evolution of her performance are deeply intertwined. “Initially, I had the same concerns as anyone – standing completely still while absorbing people’s raw emotions,” she admits. “But after the first show, something changed inside me. Seeing so many emotions and stories lifted a weight off my shoulders. It wasn’t just about them; it was about me too. A sense of belonging grew in that room, surrounded by people who understood. We weren’t just creating a safe space, but a brave space.”
The play premiered at Prithvi House in Mumbai and was recently performed again at Lahe Lahe in Bengaluru. Venkatesan’s previous shows received varying responses, with the atmosphere of each city shaping the performance differently. “In Bombay, the energy was high, with around 50 people in attendance. Many participated and left their fingerprints. In contrast, the atmosphere in Bengaluru was very calm. People seemed deeply introspective, connecting the stories behind the fingerprints in the quiet, dark space.”
According to the artist, Sentimental themes It’s not meant to simply find an outcome, but to provide space for exploration and personal journeys. “Some people may find it calming, releasing pent-up emotions. Others may feel anger rising to the surface. Still others may simply need quiet reflection.”
Sentimental themes It will be performed at the Shunya Centre for Somatic Arts and Practices, Lal Bagh Road, on June 23. Tickets are available on insider.in.
