Mumbai dancer Zia Nath is making waves with her concept of whirling — an amalgamation of Odissi and whirling inspired by Sufism, built on philosophies borrowed from ancient texts that form a part of the mystical branch of Sufism. The aim? To meditate through the simple act of twirling.

The jazz, contemporary and Odissi dancer stumbled upon the concept in Pune more than a decade ago at a sacred dance public performance, leading her to put together this unique form of spiritual movement meditation. With her workshop, she aims to inspire a community that follows the practice that helps physical as well as mental well-being. Called the Whirling Mandala, the name of the workshop itself indicates that it's a circle within circles, an unending journey within yourself.