CITOPIR’s origins trace back to a serendipitous meeting in 2017. Introduced by Asian beatboxer Mic Lee, Manmeet Kaur and Flavien discovered a shared appreciation for hip-hop, graffiti, and a passion for exploring natural landscapes. Their synergy as artists evolved into a collaborative journey that merges their individual styles into a cohesive audio-visual experience. Flavien’s mastery of beats and soundscapes pairs seamlessly with Kaur’s incisive lyricism and dynamic stage presence, creating a performance that speaks to both the head and the heart.
On January 10, the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) will host the debut audio-visual performance of the Indo-French duo. Scheduled at The Cube, the show promises to be more than just entertainment — it is a call to action on themes of inclusivity, social change, and environmental awareness.
At the core of CITOPIR’s work is the belief that art can catalyse social transformation. Through projects such as Reverse, an interdisciplinary audio-visual workshop for young people and adults that they launched in the country in 2023, the duo engages with diverse communities to co-create music and poetry. These interactions directly influence their songs and visuals, imbuing their art with authenticity and lived experiences. Their EP Wabi Sabi, inspired by the Japanese philosophy of embracing imperfection, challenges societal prejudices and advocates for a deeper acceptance of oneself and others.
“Our art is an extension of the world we envision — a space of empathy, respect, and collective growth,” says Manmeet. “We hope to inspire audiences to see inclusivity not as an abstract ideal but as an actionable way of life.”
Bridging art and environmental awareness
In an age of environmental urgency, CITOPIR tackles ecological themes with ingenuity. Workshops form a cornerstone of their practice, encouraging participants to make music with discarded objects and elements of Nature. These activities, coupled with clean-up drives and mural projects using eco-friendly materials such as terracotta and choona (lime plaster), underscore their commitment to sustainable practices.
CITOPIR’s work is the belief that art can catalyse social transformation
| Photo Credit:
Ashik Babu
“The challenge lies in making these pressing issues engaging,” Flavien shares. “We want audiences to connect emotionally with the idea of environmental stewardship while enjoying a performance that’s vibrant and thought-provoking.”
For the NMACC debut, the duo has woven the results of these projects into their setlist, complemented by visuals that highlight the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
A multi-sensory experience
Blending music, lyrics, and visuals into a seamless narrative is no easy feat. For this show, CITOPIR has pushed creative and technical boundaries, integrating music videos, documentaries, and live visuals through cutting-edge software. The performance will feature translated French lyrics for accessibility, ensuring the message resonates across linguistic barriers.
“We’re not here to spoon-feed,” says Kaur. “Our visuals and music support the themes of each song, inviting the audience to reflect and interpret in their way.”
CITOPIR’s debut promises to leave audiences with more than just fun — it aims to provoke thought and inspire action. “We hope to break prejudices and spark a deeper understanding of life’s interconnectedness,” the duo reflects. “As humans, we’re all navigating the same future. Through our art, we hope to influence today’s choices for a better tomorrow.”
CITOPIR will perform at The Cube – NMACC, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai on January 10 at 7.30 pm. Tickets available on BookMyShow for ₹450
Published – January 08, 2025 04:25 pm IST
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