New Delhi: The Sangeet Natak Akademi launched its inaugural International Festival on Indian Dance, bringing together artists, scholars, and students from around the world to celebrate the richness and diversity of Indian dance forms. The six-day festival was inaugurated by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture and Tourism, at the A.P. Shinde Symposium Hall in New Delhi.
In a special message shared for the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the significance of dance in India’s cultural heritage and its role in connecting the nation’s youth to its traditions. “This is a historic moment and a memorable occasion for all of us. The participation of artists from various nations helps in cultural exchange. Music and dance are languages that transcend borders and are universally understood,” PM Modi stated. He emphasized the importance of engaging the younger generation in such cultural events, noting that it strengthens their connection to India’s roots and fosters a sense of pride in its traditions. “Carrying forward this legacy is both a source of pride and a responsibility,” he added.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in his inaugural address, spoke about the enduring tradition of Indian dance. “This festival celebrates the grand tradition of Indian dance, bringing together artists, scholars, and practitioners from across the globe to honor our cultural heritage. Like the ever-flowing Ganga, these traditions thrive through the dedication of generations,” he said. He drew a personal connection to his Rajasthani roots, where art flourished despite scarcity, and highlighted the role of Indian arts in offering a cultural compass to the world amidst geopolitical instability and moral decline. “As global acceptance of our practices—from yoga to Ayurveda—grows, it is our responsibility to carry this legacy forward,” he remarked.
The festival, organized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, is a significant platform for international cultural exchange. Uma Nanduri, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, lauded the Akademi for its efforts in bringing together young participants from around the world. “At the Ministry of Culture, we are committed to the welfare and equality of the cultural, artistic, and dance communities. Under our leadership, we aim to make significant progress in the years ahead,” she said.
Renowned dancer and cultural icon Dr. Sonal Mansingh shared her reflections on the evolving world of dance in the age of technology. “The idea of Nataraj attains greater significance in our times. When people are talking about scientific advancement and artificial intelligence, I fear that AI might one day lead to a scenario where Sonal Mansingh dances with the help of AI,” she commented, emphasizing the need to balance tradition and innovation in the arts.
The Chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Dr. Sandhya Purecha, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to unite diverse dance traditions under one roof for this festival. “As Prime Minister stated, preserving and carrying forward such a rich legacy is a source of pride as well as a responsibility,” she remarked.
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