New Delhi, April 22: Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra (SBKK) announces the return of its annual Kendra Dance Festival 2026, scheduled to take place on May 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the iconic Kamani Auditorium.
The three-day festival will showcase a curated selection of dance drama productions by the Kendra Dance Repertory, reflecting a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. This year’s programme revisits classic works alongside thoughtfully reimagined productions, with enhanced choreography, music, and stage design while preserving the integrity of the original narratives.
Festival Line-up:
Chakravyuh – Friday, May 1, 2026 (7:00 PM)
A powerful retelling from the Mahabharata, Chakravyuh focuses on Abhimanyu’s heroic attempt to break through the formidable battle formation of the Kauravas. Through dynamic choreography and martial movement traditions, the production captures the tension, courage, and tragic consequences of war, bringing alive one of the epic’s most poignant episodes.
Sri Durga – Saturday, May 2, 2026 (7:00 PM)
Returning after a three-year hiatus, sri Durga presents a compelling depiction of the Goddess Durga’s creation and her battle against Mahishasura, followed by Kali’s fierce confrontation with Raktabeej. The production explores the duality of the Devi—as a nurturing force and a powerful protector—through evocative choreography and immersive staging.
Kartikya – Sunday, May 3, 2026 (7:00 PM)
A reimagined version of Kumar Sambhav, now titled Kartikeya, this production highlights the birth and journey of the War God Kartikeya, set against the cosmic backdrop of his battle against Tarakasur. The narrative also interweaves episodes of Shiva-Parvati, Kamdev-Rati, and the birth of Ganesha, offering a rich and layered storytelling experience.
Rooted in diverse Indian classical dance traditions including Chhau, Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathakali, and folk forms, each production is brought to life through original musical compositions, intricate costumes, elaborate sets, and dramatic lighting, creating a truly immersive theatrical experience.
The festival is mentored by Shobha Deepak Singh, Chairperson, and Gauri S. Keeling, Vice Chairperson of the Kendra. Chakravyuh and sri Durga are choreographed by Shashidharan Nair, while Kartikeya is choreographed by his disciple Raj Kumar Sharma.
The productions also reflect the collaborative vision of Minaakshi S. Dass, with set design, costumes, and jewellery for Kartikeya developed by Gauri Keeling and Minaakshi Dass. Lighting design is by Debi Prasad Mishra, and music for the new production is composed by Madho Prasad, incorporating original works of the late Barun Gupta.
Founded in 1952 by Sumitra Charat Ram, Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra has played a pioneering role in promoting Indian classical music and dance through its training institute, repertory, and festivals. Over the decades, it has nurtured generations of artists while presenting iconic narrative dance productions rooted in India’s rich cultural heritage.
The Kendra Dance Festival 2026 continues this legacy, offering audiences a vibrant celebration of storytelling, tradition, and artistic excellence.
