River of Faith: Ritual
River of Faith | 2023 | Yamuna Ghats | New Delhi
Performance: Pooja Bahri
Video: Ganesh Rajaram & Nitasha Kapahi
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In the bustling city of Delhi, where the old and new coexist in a unique harmony, I stand at the confluence of reverence and neglect - The Yamuna River, a sacred lifeline, now bears the brunt of human neglect. River of Faith is more than just a spectacle; it is my observation of the river Goddess. It is an artistic exploration of the intertwined narratives of faith, mythology, and the grim reality of ecological decay.
This visceral response to the Yamuna, draped in black, adorned with dark kohl and sindoor, embarks on a ritualistic journey. The sindoor (red powder), traditionally a symbol of devotion, transforms into a commitment transcending gender, marital status, and age. This metamorphosis is not a mere symbolic gesture; it explores the fluidity of culture, spirituality, and our collective responsibility towards the environment.
The polluted Yamuna morphs into a metaphorical canvas, each action contributing to a narrative of spiritual infusion—seeking purification amidst the pressing challenges of environmental degradation.
This performance transcends spectacle; it plumbs the depths of the environmental consequences arising from religious rituals. The Yamuna emerges not solely as a polluted river but as a living goddess, evoking questions about the delicate balance between religious practices and environmental preservation. The ritualistic application of sindoor powder, transformed into a shared emblem, signifies a pledge to environmental stewardship—a universal language dissolving boundaries, inviting viewers into a narrative where faith and environmental consciousness coalesce. This inclusivity and connection are at the heart of the performance.
By infusing the polluted Yamuna with spiritual devotion, I implore contemplation on our roles as custodians of cultural heritage and environmental well-being. The performance becomes a transformative odyssey, mirroring the profound transformation the Yamuna itself must undergo. The sacred converges with the polluted, compelling reflection on our collective responsibility.