Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

The mysterious woman turns out to be none other than the god Vishnu in disguise, using his beautiful form to trick the demons, securing the nectar for the gods and skillfully distributing the poison to the demons.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Dancer Kaustavi Sarkar depicts a furious Shiva, who has opened his third eye and proceeds to incinerate Madana and the world around him.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Choreographer and dancer Maya Kulkarni (center), who created all the dances seen on stage, stands with dancers Mesma Belsare (left) and Kaustavi Sarkar (right). They all received a resounding applause and a standing ovation.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Rati, in her heavy grief, cradles herself and thinks of Madana.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Taken from the Puranas, an ancient Hindu text filled with mythology and stories, dancer Mesma Belsare depicts the gods and demons churning the sea for holy nectar, and a mysterious, beautiful woman who appears amongst them in “Amrit Manthan.”

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Jatayu remembers his mother as she taught him how to fly and hunt. Here, dancer Mesma Belsare depicts Jatayu's mother feeding the newborn king of birds.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Jatayu hears Sita being taken by Ravana. Upon seeing her plight, he pulls himself up to full height and flies to battle with the demon king. A vicious fight ensues, but ultimately, Jatayu is mortally wounded.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

With one of his wings cut off after the battle with Ravana, Jayatu slowly fades away until Rama appears in his vision. Rama thanks Jatayu and lets him drink holy water from his cupped palms as he breathes his last breath.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Ankle bells, known as ghungroo, are an iconic part of a traditional Indian dancer's ensemble. They highlight the movements and footwork that are key to the art form.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Inspired by Indian poet Kalidasa's poem “Meghadūta,” dancer Kaustavi Sarkar portrays a mischievous and clever peacock who toys with a naive and boastful cloud. The bird challenges the cloud to find Lady Lightning, a dancer in the sky and ask her to become lovers despite her danger.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

The peacock awakens and searches for something to amuse him, ultimately leading him to the boastful cloud.

Surya Vaidy | Staff Photographer

Dancer Mesma Belsare takes the stance of the gods and demons churning the sea for holy nectar.