“We Rise” by Somdatta
This article shares Somdatta‘s recent single, ‘We Rise,’ an addition to her album ‘Mazi,’ which serves as a musical testament to the silent struggles endured by victims of abuse and domestic violence. This powerful track delves into the harrowing experiences of losing identity and self amidst the shadows of physical and emotional abuse while celebrating the resilient spirit that emerges from such suffering.
Somdatta’s recent single, ‘We Rise,’ a poignant addition to her album ‘Mazi,’ stands as a musical testament to the silent struggles endured by victims of abuse and domestic violence. This powerful track delves into the harrowing experiences of losing identity and self amidst the shadows of physical and emotional abuse while celebrating the resilient spirit that emerges from such suffering.
Collaborating with renowned Sarod maestro Prattyush Banerjee, ‘We Rise’ emerges as a captivating fusion of languages and musical genres. The marriage of original Bangla and Sanskrit lyrics, penned by Neha Krishna Kumar and Sugata Guha respectively, adds depth to the song’s message. It’s a production that not only embraces vocal expressions of trauma but also employs movement to convey the unspoken agony embedded within our bodies.
The melodic composition, a masterpiece by Prattyush Banerjee, incorporates a diverse range of instruments and sounds. With vocal harmonies intertwined with the Pakhawaj, tabla, drums, sarod, flute, and piano strings, the track’s sonic landscape is a tapestry of emotions. The Sanskrit verses, pulsating with strong rhythms from the Pakhawaj, contrast the vibrant dynamics of the Bangla verses, adorned with Western instruments like the tabla, Dholak, and percussion. This eclectic mix of tones and rhythms ensures a global appeal, inviting diverse audiences to resonate with its essence.
Somdatta, an interdisciplinary artist, finds purpose in leveraging her craft to advocate for change. Her voice echoes the struggles of women worldwide, employing music, movement, and choreography to shed light on the pervasive trauma and oppression many face. Drawing inspiration from visionaries like Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore and her training in Bharatanatyam Dance under Dr. Mallika Sarabhai’s guidance, Somdatta’s artistry is rooted in equality and freedom.
In discussing the inspiration behind ‘We Rise,’ Somdatta sheds light on her work in Dance Movement Therapy, particularly with women affected by trauma. Her experiences, resonating deeply with the untold stories of repression and trauma held within victims’ bodies, fuel the emotional core of this song. Crafted from dialogues with survivors of domestic violence, ‘We Rise’ is a symphony of resilience. It doesn’t just navigate the darkness but illuminates the journey towards healing through movement. This masterpiece reflects the courage, hope, and strength of survivors worldwide, resonating with the universal implications of abuse and violence against women.
Somdatta’s ‘We Rise’ isn’t just a song; it’s a transformative experience, a rallying cry for solidarity, healing, and empowerment in the face of adversity. Through her art, she invites us to acknowledge, understand, and ultimately rise above the shadows that threaten to eclipse our resilience.