In a pandemic-ravaged world, this two-week summit is an important test of global cooperation to tackle the climate crisis. COP stands for Conference of the Parties. In diplomatic parlance, parties refer to the 197 nations that agreed. United Nations Framework Convention On climate change at a meeting in 1992. In addition to the likes of Joe Biden and Narendra Modi, more than 130 heads of state and government and thousands of diplomats have met to set new targets for cutting emissions that are warming the planet.
Sohini with Rishi
Sohini with son Rishi
Describing his invitation to perform as part of the COP26 Cultural Expressions as the “turning point” of his life, Roychowdhury said, “I was approached by Tami Pein who is the venue coordinator for COP26 Events and Stop Climate Chaos Scotland. This invitation is to me the world and I am honored to perform at the most important climate-related conference on the planet. As a Kolkata, I feel proud that my son and I have had this opportunity. This is the first time a mother and son will perform together at a physical event. Dasgupta is studying economics at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.
Roychowdhury believes that his long association with the ‘Nature and I’ projects may have influenced his selection as an artist. The project is presented in the form of storytelling with dance workshops, concerts and dance forms in Kolkata and various cities in Europe. “Twelve years ago, I worked on this project with students from 14 Hampshire schools. Discussions about it resurfaced recently when Amish Tripathi launched my book, ‘Dancing with the Gods’ in London and at my workshops. SOAS University of London,” she told Glasgow.
In the 20-minute long event, the two will perform a version of ‘Nature and Us’ using Shiva stotras. The idea is to use references to various stories of Shiva to show the wrath of nature, how it heals to restore balance in this universe. “There is a navel connection between Purusha and Prakriti. Finally, Shiva is shown as the ultimate being who sustains nature and creation. I believe that we can use dance, story and dance to express the ancient Vedic texts. By using music the COPs will be able to connect with the central idea of 26, which is deeply drawn from our mythology,” she said.
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