Spanda Art Space
A Sacred Space for the Practice of Ancient Theatre
Where tradition meets transformation in the heart of Boral
The Meaning of Spanda
स्पन्द
In Sanskrit, Spanda means "vibration," "pulsation," or "primordial energy"—the subtle, creative force that underlies all existence. It represents the divine throb of consciousness, the heartbeat of the universe, and the inner movement that transforms stillness into creation. At Spanda Art Space, this ancient concept becomes the foundation for artistic exploration and spiritual practice.
A Sanctuary of Ancient Arts
Located in Boral, beyond the southern fringes of Kolkata near Garia, Spanda Art Space stands as Chidakash Kalalay's dedicated centre for the practice and preservation of ancient Indian theatre. Founded by Piyal Bhattacharya, this art abode represents a vision brought to life—a secluded sanctuary where the rhythms of tradition continue unbroken, hidden amidst the bustling city, its rustic pleasures untouched by time.
The space was revamped from ruins left by Cyclone Amphan in 2019 through the dedicated efforts of Anubha Fatehpuria and Richa Bose. What emerged is an architecturally distinctive structure that contrasts beautifully with the structural sameness marking the surrounding real estate, embodying the uniqueness of the artistic traditions it houses.
Glimpses of Spanda
An Old-World Charm
Walking into Spanda Art Space is like stepping into another era—a space where ancient sculptures rest alongside reconstructed instruments, where the air resonates with the sounds of traditions revived, and where every corner tells a story of dedication to preserving India's theatrical heritage.
What Makes Spanda Unique
Reconstructed Instruments
A living museum of ancient musical instruments, painstakingly reconstructed from historical texts—from the Rudra Veena to the Ekatantri Veena, each crafted using traditional methods.
Handcrafted Elements
Students create ornaments and costumes from scratch using wood sourced from Kerala-Karnataka borders, adorned with paints and 24-carat gold plates through hours of meticulous work.
Indigenous Architecture
Tastefully constructed in an indigenous manner that reflects traditional design principles while serving the practical needs of theatrical practice and training.
Intimate Performances
Regular small-gathering performances that revive the ancient tradition of performing in intimate spaces, creating profound connections between artists and audiences.
Sculpture Collection
A storehouse of ancient sculptures that serve both as artistic inspiration and educational resources for understanding classical forms and iconography.
Training Ground
A dedicated space where resident students immerse themselves in the comprehensive study of Mārga Nāṭya, encompassing dance, music, theatre, and scholarship.
Dance and theatre are the same in Natyashastra where dance and music are elements of theatre. There are 11 elements of theatre mentioned in the text and I try to keep all of them in my works. I try to stick to my roots and revive the indigeneity of traditional theatre.
The Practice at Spanda
At Spanda Art Space, the focus is on reforming and preserving ancient traditions of performing in intimate spaces. The primary focus of study and practice is Bharata's Natyashastra—the comprehensive Sanskrit treatise on performing arts—approached not as a historical text but as a living practice.
Training and Activities
- Instrument Training: Students learn rare instruments like Rudra Veena, Kacchapi Veena, and Ekatantri Veena, understanding both technique and the philosophy behind each instrument
- Dance and Movement: Comprehensive training in the karanas and angaharas of classical Sanskrit theatre, integrating elements from various traditional dance forms
- Costume and Ornament Making: Hands-on creation of traditional theatrical costumes and jewelry, maintaining authentic materials and techniques
- Performance Practice: Regular rehearsals and intimate performances for small gatherings, keeping the tradition of close audience engagement alive
- Scholarly Study: Deep engagement with Sanskrit texts, musicology, and the theoretical foundations of Natyashastra
- Collaborative Creation: Ensemble work on productions that bring together all elements—music, dance, acting, and visual aesthetics
The Vision
Spanda Art Space embodies the belief that ancient traditions are not museum pieces but living practices that can speak to contemporary concerns. It serves as a laboratory for experimentation, a sanctuary for learning, and a stage for sharing the profound beauty of India's classical theatrical heritage.
Here, the past is not merely preserved—it is reawakened, revitalized, and allowed to pulse with new life, true to the meaning of "Spanda" itself: the vibration of creative energy that transforms stillness into art.