Anandam 2025: Journeys That Transcend Borders

Anandam 2025, the annual culmination of the Aha! Arts Programme, was a celebration of creativity, connection, and courage — where learners came together to explore the theme “Journey Across Borders – Stories of Migrations.”

The performance began with the flight of Jonathan Livingston Seagull, symbolising humanity’s search for purpose and transcendence. As the story unfolded on stage, our Visual Arts students created a breathtaking live artwork, painting Jonathan’s journey in real time — a seamless blend of movement, music, and visual expression.

From there, the story of Thillayadi Valliammai captured one woman’s courage that sparked collective awakening. Through Pick a Bale of Cotton, learners found rhythm in resilience; while Kabir’s More Sir Se Tali Bala and Amir Khusrau’s Chaap Tilak Sab Cheeni explored the timeless quest for truth and unity.

The narrative crossed cultures through the Bamboo Dance of Assam and the Tinikling of the Philippines, symbolising shared humanity through rhythm and grace. The fusion of Flamenco and Kathak mirrored dialogues across borders, while Kolkali and Circle Dance celebrated the joy of togetherness.

The evening concluded with Ode to Joy, a powerful reminder that every journey — of body, mind, or spirit — leads us toward connection.

Anandam 2025 stood as a testament to the power of art to dissolve boundaries and unite hearts — a moving reflection of our shared humanity, connected through creativity and compassion.