Group Dance: 90 minutes

Padme is a Bharatanatyam dance recital that draws its inspiration from the beautiful lotus, a flower sacred to many cultures, and explores its symbolism in Asian mythology. In the ancient sacred language of Sanskrit, Padme means lotus. The lotus is regarded as a symbol of creation, purity, and enlightenment. It rises from the deep muddy waters to blossom into a pure and perfect flower, untouched by the mire. Similarly, our consciousness evolves from base impulses and worldly imperfections to spiritual liberation.

According to Indian mythology, Lord Vishnu emerged in a golden lotus from the Milk Ocean. From his navel, a lotus arose, and Brahma, the Creator, was seated in the center of the flower, and creation began. The Buddhist prayer, “Om Mani Padme Hum,” symbolizes the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of the compassionate Buddha.

With pure dance and mime, through hymns and Buddhist tales, and joyful folk dances, the dancers in Padme embark on a journey from the beginning of the universe and conclude at the lotus feet of the Lord, symbolizing the surrender of the Self to the Creator who resides in the lotus of our hearts.