Text Analysis

The day began with a grounding prayer and a warm-up session led by Anil. The light yet energizing routine concluded with a relaxing cooldown, leaving participants refreshed and ready for the day.

In Shreedhar Sir’s absence, the group collaboratively recited foundational slokas, maintaining the session's energy and focus.

Pramod Shiggaon Sir conducted a session on text analysis and character improvisation, starting with a unique exercise. Participants were blindfolded and asked to walk for 15-20 minutes, navigating around props. This was followed by 10 minutes of silence in darkness, culminating in a reflective discussion. Many participants shared how the silence heightened their awareness and influenced their thought process.

The theoretical session covered key concepts:

• Understanding "why" is more impactful than "how" in acting.

• Characters are shaped by their environment; every action and dialogue must have purpose.

• Observation is vital for imitation, as explored through exercises mimicking animal sounds.

• Artists need dual vision: external (what is seen) and internal (what is felt).

• Language, pronunciation, and body language are critical in character portrayal.

Sir emphasized empathy in understanding characters, encouraging participants to draw from personal experiences (Anubhava Muktha).

In a practical exercise, participants imagined lifting a hot metallic ball as prisoners, focusing on the pain and emotional weight of punishment. Initial performances were mechanical, prompting Sir to encourage deeper emotional engagement for realism. This exercise was left as homework for further exploration.

The session concluded with a commitment to revisit and refine the exercise the following day.