The 'term' Strīpreksha draws inspiration from 'Stree Preksha', an ancient form of dramatic art performed exclusively by women mentioned as early as the 4th century B.C. The term is also attributed to the woman's inner journey without abhorrence or attachment. This specific work emerged during the Covid pandemic, as a part of my exploration of alternative spaces and inclusion, the temple being one among others.
Strīpreksha reveres the two principal deities of the Randumoorthy Temple. The dancer initiates with a benediction to Annapoorneswari and then transitions to Bhadrakali, briefly enacting tale of Mahishasuramardini. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Thiruvalathur Randumoorthy Kshetram for granting me access to this sacred space, going beyond the gendered and caste materiality that typically governs such spaces.
#temple #thiruvalathur #templearchitecture
#inclusion