Stills from the Festival De Danza cultural evening held in Bengaluru
The third edition of Festival De Danza, India’s premier jugalbandi dance festival, concluded last night to thunderous applause at the Scouts & Guides Auditorium on Palace Road.
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], April 24: The third edition of Festival De Danza, India’s premier jugalbandi dance festival, concluded last night to thunderous applause at the Scouts & Guides Auditorium on Palace Road. The event showcased a breathtaking blend of classical Indian dance forms by internationally and nationally acclaimed dancers, celebrating the diversity and richness of India’s cultural heritage
Veteran Bollywood actor Rohitashv Gour, on behalf of the All India Artist Association (AIAA), expressed his delight at the event’s success, saying, “It’s an honor to be part of such an incredible initiative that brings together the finest talents of Indian classical dance. The success of this event is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of everyone involved. Festival De Danza is truly an unparalleled experience, and we are proud to be part of this celebration of our country’s vibrant artistic legacy.”
The festival commenced with a captivating opening act by Pandit Iman Das’s Omkar Music Academy, featuring senior vocal disciples Krishanu, Chandrama, Amulya, Ashmita, Tanushree, and Smayan, along with Bharatnatyam and Kathak disciples of Snigdha D.S., acclaimed Guru, Kathak & Bharatnatyam dancer, and organizer of the festival. The performance set the stage for an unforgettable evening of Indian classical dance.
Following the opening act, the audience was treated to a ‘Triveni’ trio by renowned dancers from Kolkata and Bhubaneswar, including multiple award winner Kalamandalam Swarnadeepa Mahanta (Mohiniattam), graded artist of SPIC MACAY Santasree Sasmal (Odissi), and Jyoti Bhattacharjee (Bharatnatyam). Their exceptional performances highlighted the unique beauty of each dance form, leaving the audience in awe.
Next, the stage came alive with an extraordinary jugalbandi of Kathakali and Mohiniattam by internationally acclaimed artists Prabal Gupta (Kathakali) and Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar Awardee Vidushi Rekha Raju (Mohiniattam). Their seamless fusion of the two dance forms showcased their mastery and the endless possibilities for innovation within the realm of Indian classical da
The evening continued with an enchanting Kathak solo performance by Snigdha D.S., who captivated the audience with her grace, precision, and emotive storytelling through dance. Her performance was followed by a mesmerizing Kuchipudi recital by Sangeet Natak Academy Awardee Vidushi Vaijyanthi Kashi and her talented group. Their synchronized movements, intricate footwork, and expressive faces brought the audience to their feet.
The grand finale featured a spellbinding Kathak solo by Karnataka Kalashree Guru Mysore Nagaraj, whose masterful performance left the audience breathless and eager for more. His command of rhythm, technique, and expression served as a fitting end to an unforgettable night of dance.
Organizer Snigdha DS, the curator of the festival on behalf of Omkar Music Academy, shared her elation, “We are overwhelmed by the response from the audience and the media. It has been our privilege to present the best of Indian classical dance forms on one stage. The performances truly showcased the rich cultural heritage of our country, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share these art forms with a wider audience.”
Festival De Danza was co-organized by AIAA and Bengaluru’s leading vocalist Pt Iman Das’s Omkar Music Academy, curated by Snigdha DS. The event was generously supported by Bollywood actors Rohitashv Gour and Rekha Gour, who share a strong commitment to promoting and preserving India’s rich artistic traditions.
The festival’s diverse lineup of performances and the seamless fusion of various classical dance forms set a new benchmark for Indian dance festivals. Audience members and critics alike were left in awe, praising the event for its ambitious and successful endeavor to showcase the best of Indian classical dance under one roof.
As Festival De Danza continues to gain recognition and acclaim, it is poised to become a much-anticipated annual event for dance enthusiasts and those seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Indian classical dance. The resounding success of this year’s event promises even more spectacular shows and innovative collaborations in the years to come as Festival De Danza continues to celebrate and elevate the artistry, creativity, and cultural significance of Indian classical dance on a global stage.
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