Delhi to Host Kendra Dance Festival 2026 Celebrating Classical Dance Traditions

Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra (SBKK) is set to present its annual Kendra Dance Festival 2026 from 1 May to 3 May at Kamani Auditorium, bringing together a series of classical dance dramas rooted in Indian mythology and performance traditions.

The three-day festival will feature curated productions by the Kendra Dance Repertory, reflecting both continuity and innovation in its artistic approach. This year’s lineup revisits established works alongside reimagined productions, with renewed choreography, music, and stage design while maintaining the essence of the originals.

The festival will open on 1 May with Chakravyuh, a retelling from the Mahabharata centred on Abhimanyu’s entry into the formidable battle formation devised by the Kauravas. The production uses dynamic choreography and martial movement traditions to depict themes of courage, conflict and sacrifice, while updated costumes and design elements aim to enhance its visual narrative.

On 2 May, the repertory will stage श्रीDurga, returning after a three-year gap. The production explores the creation of Goddess Durga and her battle against Mahishasura, followed by the emergence of Kali to defeat Raktabeej. Through rhythmic choreography and structured staging, the performance traces the transformation of the Devi from a serene force to a fierce protector of cosmic order.

The festival will conclude on 3 May with Kartikeya, a reworked version of the earlier production Kumar Sambhav. The narrative focuses on the birth of Kartikeya, the war god, against the backdrop of cosmic conflict involving Tarakasur. The production also integrates episodes featuring Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, and the wider “Shiva Parivar,” combining classical storytelling with contemporary stagecraft.

The performances draw on a wide range of Indian classical dance forms, including Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathakali, and Chhau, alongside elements from Indian folk traditions. Each production is supported by original music, handcrafted costumes, elaborate sets and lighting design, creating an immersive theatrical experience.

The festival is mentored by Shobha Deepak Singh and Gauri S. Keeling. Chakravyuh and श्रीDurga are choreographed by Shashidharan Nair, while Kartikeya is choreographed by Raj Kumar Sharma. The production design for Kartikeya has been developed by Gauri Keeling and Minaakshi S. Dass, with lighting by Debi Prasad Mishra. Music for the production is composed by Madho Prasad, incorporating earlier compositions by the late Barun Gupta.

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