Sangeet Natak Akademi to host inaugural International Festival on Indian Dance

The Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s premier institution for music, dance, and drama, is gearing up for its inaugural International Festival on Indian Dance, scheduled from October 16 to 21 in the national capital. The event promises a blend of scholarly discussions and captivating performances.

During a press conference on Monday, Sandhya Purecha, chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi, stated, “Discussions for this event began in July, and we sent out invitations for abstract submissions in August, receiving over 800 abstracts in various languages within just 15 days. We shortlisted 400, most of which will be presented during the seminars over the six days.”

“This festival aims to bring together philanthropists, government officials, scholars, researchers, and students to explore the economic and social aspects of the arts,” Purecha emphasised. “Through open conversations, we hope to generate actionable insights and policy recommendations shaping the future of India’s art and culture.”

The seminar consists of 30 sessions chaired by esteemed Padma awardees. Over 60 countries will participate in the evening performances, highlighting global interest in Indian dance forms. The festival will officially kick off with an inaugural ceremony on Wednesday at AP Shinde Symposium Hall, NASC Complex, Pusa, inaugurated by Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.