Dr. Sonal Mansingh Reflects on Art, Resilience and Legacy
A Life in Motion
An evening of artistic wisdom, and cultural introspection came alive at Kitaab Dibrugarh as the launch of A ZigZag Mind for an illuminating conversation with renowned classical dancer, cultural icon, and author Sonal Mansingh. Organised under the aegis of the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, the event celebrated not merely the publication of a book, but the extraordinary journey of a woman whose life has traversed the realms of art, public service, philosophy, and cultural stewardship.
The programme commenced with a gracious welcome address by Preeti Bagrodia, Ehsaas Woman of Dibrugarh. Sonal Mansingh was in conversation with Lakhipriya Gogoi where the evening evolved into a compelling exploration of tradition, resilience, spirituality, creativity, and the enduring relevance of Indian cultural values in a rapidly changing world. The evening was further enriched by the presence of Chief Guest Prof. Jiten Hazarika and Guest of Honour Prof. Karabi Deka Hazarika.
Prof. Jiten Hazarika delivered an engaging and reflective address. Reflecting on the book’s title, he noted, “creativity, reflection, and intellectual discovery seldom move in straight lines. The universities must remain spaces where minds are free to question, explore, challenge conventions, and create.” He praised Dr. Sonal Mansingh’s lifelong contribution to Indian arts and culture, describing her as a legendary artist whose work continually demonstrates that art is not merely an aesthetic pursuit but a profound means of understanding life itself.
Prof. Karabi Deka Hazarika delivered a thoughtful address describing the book as “a treasure and a memoir of immense value.” She highlighted several fascinating chapters that explore themes ranging from the guru-shishya tradition and creativity in dance to women’s empowerment, spirituality, and personal transformation. She observed, “A memoir is a personal narrative that focuses on a specific aspect or period of the author’s life, often exploring their experiences, emotions and reflections.”
Reflecting on the title itself, Dr. Mansingh remarked that life seldom follows a linear trajectory. “It has been a life of such experiences and, as the title suggests, zigzags. Imagine twenty-four hours a day, three hundred and sixty-five days a year, how many zigs and how many zags one must navigate. That journey continues until the very last breath,” she said.
She mentioned the significance of the guru-shishya parampara, which forms a cornerstone of Indian artistic traditions. Dr. Mansingh offered an understanding of the term parampara, saying it was often inadequately translated as “tradition.” “Parampara is not orthodoxy. It is not rigid. It is something rooted and yet constantly moving forward. When one foot advances, the other remains firmly grounded.”
