MANASI...was presented by Anita Ratnam and Arangham Dance Theatre on February 26, 2001 at
the Narada Gana Sabha, Chennai for the Schizophrenia Research Foundation, Chennai.
After initial discussions with members of SCARF, a special focus for the fund-raiser programme was
defined. MANASI... then evolved through further discussions and rehearsals.
The work highlights the abstract and challenging idea of mental health awareness. Using a blend of
music, rhythm, dance and spoken dialogue, the work examines through sensitive, young Manasi's
life, the stress, prejudices and dangers posed by an intolerant society. The desperate call for
compassion and collective responsibility towards those who think differently - bringing all of them
into the mainstream of society - makes up the final, clarion notes of MANASI... a journey through
the mind. The music for the programme was specially composed by noted musician OS Arun.