Hetain Patel: Mathroo Basha (Dance Umbrella)

Acclaimed visual artist and filmmaker Hetain Patel presents a preview of his latest work, “Mathroo Basha” (Mother Tongue in Gujarati), which explores generational change within his Brit-Gujarati family. The work is rooted in Patel’s reflections on the passing of several first-generation immigrants in his family, prompting him to examine what is lost, what is inherited, and how these experiences evolve over time.

Through a combination of movement and audio interviews, Patel physically responds to recorded conversations with women from his family speaking in Gujarati about inheritance, loss, and the future. His body acts as a conduit for these emotional narratives, transforming personal memories and family rituals into an intimate exploration of generational shifts.

Known for his ability to merge popular culture, performance, and personal narrative, Patel’s Mathroo Basha offers an intimate yet profound reflection on the evolving dynamics of family and heritage, underscoring his ongoing examination of identity and freedom in contemporary life.