Private Project

Moods of Nāyikā

Who is She? MOODS OF NĀYIKĀ is a celebration of the nāyikā - the heroine - who is etched into ancient Indian literature. In eight dynamic episodes our ashta nāyikā emerges with agency, and all at once uncertain, sexy and powerful. Created by Chicago South Asian performers, dancemaker Ashwaty Chennat and drag performer Abhijeet, this is an explosion of South Asian queer artistry and the rising scene of local digital performance.

  • Abhijeet
    Produced and Directed by
  • Ashwaty Chennat
    Produced and Directed by
  • Abhijjet
    Performances by
  • Ashwaty Chennat
    Performances by
  • Masen Colucci
    Cinematography
  • Dylan Bragassa
    Editing and Visual Effects
  • Connor Torres
    Creative Direction
  • JforPay Designs
    Costuming
  • Chethan Anant
    Music Composition
  • Transit Productions
    Production Team
  • Regina Rodriguez
    Production Direction
  • Brady Furlich
    Production Assistant Direction
  • Aaron Herschlag
    Gaffer
  • Sarah Gaglione
    Photographer
  • Abhijeet
    Make Up and Hair
  • Chicago Dancemakers Forum
    With support from
  • High Concept Labs
    With support from
  • 3Arts
    With support from
  • Mandala South Asian Performing Arts
    With support from
  • A Queer Pride
    With support from
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Experimental, Short
  • Runtime:
    32 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    December 14, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    10,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English, Hindi, Sanskrit, Tamil
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Premiere event with performances
    Chicago, Illinois
    United States
    December 15, 2021
    World Premiere
    Chicago Dancemakers Forum Digital Dance Grant
Director