Abhishek Khedekar's Tamasha at NCPA Blends Documentary and Fiction
The "Tamasha" photography exhibition by New Delhi's Abhishek Khedekar recently concluded at the Dilip Piramal Art Gallery, located in Mumbai's National Centre for the Performing Arts. Curated by Bharat Sikka, the exhibition focuses on a nomadic family of 100 known as Lokkalawant, who represent the Tamasha folk art form across Maharashtra. Khedekar spent six months with them in 2016 and made further visits in 2022 and 2023. The display featured 15 framed photos along with a setup that included mic stands and metal trunks. His unique docu-fiction style highlights the struggles of Tamasha artists, as their art faces discrimination linked to its erotic nature and lower-caste origins. The number of Tamasha theatres in Maharashtra has plummeted from hundreds to a mere handful due to lack of funding and recognition.
Key facts
- Tamasha is a hybrid folk art form blending Marathi culture, literature, music, dance, satire, and theatre.
- The exhibition was held at the Dilip Piramal Art Gallery at NCPA in Mumbai.
- The series was curated by Indian contemporary artist and curator Bharat Sikka.
- Khedekar lived with the Tamasha family for six months in 2016, with additional trips in 2022 and 2023.
- The exhibition included 15 framed photographs and a stage installation.
- Tamasha artists face discrimination due to the form's eroticism, satire, and lower-caste associations.
- The number of Tamasha theatres in Maharashtra has declined from hundreds to a few.
- Khedekar uses a docu-fiction approach, combining observational and staged photography.
Entities
Artists
- Abhishek Khedekar
- Bharat Sikka
- Vinod
Institutions
- Dilip Piramal Art Gallery
- National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)
- STIR
Locations
- Mumbai
- New Delhi
- Maharashtra
- India