Over 200 artistes from 16 nations celebrate Indian dance at global fest
The Sangeet Natak Akademi hosted its inaugural International Festival on Indian Dance, featuring a diverse line-up of artists from around the globe on Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent in a special message for the event, emphasising the importance of dance in India’s cultural landscape and its potential to engage youth with national traditions.
The six-day festival was officially inaugurated by Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at the AP Shinde Symposium Hall, NASC Complex, in the Capital. In his message, PM Modi remarked, “This is a historic moment for all of us. The participation of artistes from various nations fosters cultural exchange. Music and dance are languages that transcend borders.” He highlighted dance as integral to India’s identity, stating, “The earliest scriptures on performing arts were penned by Bharata Muni in India. Carrying forward this legacy is a source of pride and responsibility.”
This festival honours our grand tradition of Indian dance and brings together a global community. Classical and folk dances are incredible, and together they make it a kaleidoscope of colours and lend multiple dimensions to it. Culture is such that it even lends colours to arid deserts. — Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister
Shekhawat expressed, “This festival honours our grand tradition of Indian dance and brings together a global community. Like the ever-flowing Ganga, these traditions thrive through generations, connecting us in unity amidst diversity.” He noted that India’s cultural practices, including yoga and Ayurveda, have gained global acceptance and emphasised the importance of preserving this legacy.
Sandhya Purecha, Chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, noted, “This historic festival aims to initiate discussions on the intersections of tradition and innovation. Our collective success comes from collaboration and shared purpose.” She emphasised the importance of engaging youth in these discussions to shape the future of Indian dance.
Participating in the closed-door seminar scheduled in the first half of the day, dancer Padma Subrahmanyam said, “This conference bridges past, present and future. It’s crucial to protect the common cultural characteristics of our country.” She urged the Ministry of Culture to make the study of dance based on the Natya Shastra mandatory in regional dance forms.
With participation of over 200 artistes and scholars and more than 800 submissions received, the festival marks a significant moment in celebrating and evolving Indian dance, inviting both seasoned professionals and the next generation of artists to engage in dialogue and performance. Around 16 countries and their artists will grace the stage alongside Indian artistes.
