Aakash Odedra Company / Aditi Mangaldas Company Mehek
Play TrailerTwo world-class kathak dancers celebrate love in all its forms.
Derived from the Hindi word for fragrance, Mehek alludes to the enduring power of memory and the essence of love itself.
This enchanting exploration of the human heart – its desires, courage, and resilience – is masterfully brought to life by the artistry of Aakash Odedra and Aditi Mangaldas. They are the great South Asian dancers of their respective generations.
This captivating performance gives a voice to an unspoken and overlooked love story. Centred around a mature woman and a younger man, the dance delves deep into their intricate characters, challenging norms and redefining the very essence of love.
Mehek marks the return of Aakash Odedra in the UK after the hugely successful Samsara in 2022 as well as the first duet of Aditi Mangaldas’ illustrious 50-year career.
Header image © Angela Grabowska
Videography by Janhavi Sharma
Image description: Aakash and Aditi stand against a blue background with smoke billowing around them, making the image feel cold. The male performer has one hand facing down in front of him. The female performer has one hand facing upwards touching his. The other arm they have around each other. They are wearing simple blue costumes.
When Aakash Odedra is on stage, the sky’s the limit
INDIA TODAY
Mangaldas owned the stage
SANJOY ROY, THE GUARDIAN
He’s a dancer of quicksilver speed and gracefully light touch
THE GUARDIAN, LYNDSEY WINSHIP on Aakash Oderdra
Her dance demonstrates what it means to be utterly free in body, mind and spirit to explore the world
DR SHANTA GOKHALE, MUMBAI MIRROR on Aditi Mangaldas
Play trailer

Choreographer Conversations: Akram Khan
In this 45-minute discussion, filmed in front of a live audience, renowned choreographer Akram Khan recounts his life and his career… from serving plates in his dad’s restaurant, to choreographing the London Olympic opening ceremony for an audience of millions.
Performances
Post-show talk
BSL interpreted post-show talk with Aakash Odedra, Aditi Mangaldas and Sadler’s Wells Associate Artistic Director Rob Jones.