Act III: Fear

Composition and Lyrics - Dr. Shiv Subramaniam​

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Musical Arrangement - S. Adithyanarayanan​

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Jathis - Shriya Srinivasan & Joshua George​

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Musicians - S. Adithyanarayanan (Vocal), Guru Bharadwaj (Mridangam), Joshua George (Nattuvangam), Madan Mohan (Strings), Charulatha Chandrasekhar (Veena)​

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Choir - All World Choir (TIVA)

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Recording - The Den - S. Adithyanarayanan, The Sachin Shankor Mannath Studio, Surang Studios

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While shringaram (love) has been extensively explored in the Bharatanatyam repertoire, bhayanakam (fear) often lingers in the shadows, elusive yet profound. Fear is a primordial emotion with a significant influence on our psychology, shaping lives and decisions across cultures. Neuroscientists, psychologists, and philosophers have long sought to unravel its mysterious complexity, understanding that freeing ourselves from fear's pervasive grip is crucial for emotional liberation.

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Fear is heavy and intangible, a survival mechanism and a catalyst for the fight-or-flight response. Yet, ignorance can twist fear into anger, anxiety, and prejudice, paralyzing even the most courageous, like Arjuna facing his own dharma. As our brains develop, fear evolves—from imagined creepy crawlies and monsters under the bed to adolescent insecurities whispering doubts about careers and our internal insecurities. Adulthood brings further challenges, as societal pressures toss us about like ships in a storm. In moments of anxiety, like Jesus calming the storm, we find that unwavering faith can transform panic into peace. As we age and confront mortality, fear prompts reflection on life's purpose. Siddhartha Gautama faced the harsh truths of existence and, through meditation under the bodhi tree, attained enlightenment by cultivating focus, compassion, and wisdom, defeating the temptations of the demon Mara.

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However, In fear's absence, our minds unlock creativity, curiosity, and joy, transforming our inner chemistry. But in a society where desires and ambitions chain us, speed and ambition often overshadow meaning, and the relentless march forward demands sacrifice.

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What if we dared to dream differently? To be fearless, steady, and realized? Can we rise together, hand in hand, embracing unity, compassion, and happiness? Let us envision a future where we ascend collectively, lifting each other to new heights, transcending fear into a realm of limitless possibilities.​

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Oh fearful one, don’t be afraid of the unknown

Be courageous, for deep inside you are enough

Amidst those that may blow you here and there like the wind, you must remain steadfast, like a mountain 

Our bodies will perish. Protect the imperishable - your spirit

Without fear, your imagination is the limit

When ignorance is destroyed, fear is destroyed

Exercise mental clarity and courage to overcome anxieties 

The mind holds the reins, the body is the chariot, the self emerges as the charioteer

With resilience, the true self shines, overcoming the grasp of the senses