The dance of Sivagamiyin Sabatham (The Vow of Sivagami) is based on a Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy in 1944. This Drama evolves between two kingdoms in South India, Pallavan (Kanchi) and Chalukyan (Vathapi). Sivagami, a beautiful mystical dancer from Kanchi known for her exotic postures and nuances, whose fame has spread to distant lands, is deeply in love with Prince Narasimhavarman. However, King Mahendravarman, the father of the Prince never approved of their love, as Sivagami is merely the daughter of a sculptor.
In the midst of their romance, the Kanchis were facing a war with Chalukyas. Pulikesi, the Chalukyan King, is ruthless and on the other hand, his brother Naganandhi, dons the role of a Buddhist monk to move freely between the kingdoms as a spy. King Pulikesi covets to capture Kanchi and the people of Kanchi suffer. Naganandhi takes this opportunity and deceives Sivagami and her father to take them to Vathapi. He reveals his love for her and promises to bring back her father if she accepts his love. Meanwhile, King Pulikesi forces her to dance. She refuses but cunning Pulikesi devises a devious plan of making her dance by torturing the captured Kanchi citizens. Sivagami has no choice; so she dances to protect them from the brutal king. Humiliated Sivagami vows that she would not leave until her beloved Narasimhavarman comes and rescues her from Vatapi and burns the city down.
The struggle continues for nine years and ultimately the Pallavan triumphs. Prince Narasimhavarman kills Pulikesi and rescues Sivagami. Thus, the vow of Sivagami is fulfilled. Upon returning, she is devastated to discover that her profound love is married. She becomes disheartened and so decides to devote her life to the Lord of Dance.
Date: 11th & 12th May, 1991
Venue: Civic Centre, PJ
Date: 7th August, 1994
Venue: City Hall, Ipoh
Date: 31st January, 1993
Venue: VGP Auditorium, Chennai, India
Date: 2nd February, 1993
Venue: Madras Music Academy, Chennai, India
Date: 7th & 8th February, 1993
Venue: Sangeetha Mahal,Tanjavur, India
