Purana Qila comes alive with classical dance at Indraprastha Nritya Mahotsav

Delhi’s historic Purana Qila turned into a luminous stage on Friday evening as the three-day Indraprastha Nritya Mahotsav opened to the public with spellbinding performances by some of India’s most celebrated classical dancers. Organized by the Delhi Tourism Department, the festival is a confluence of rhythm, tradition, and heritage, bringing together performers from across the country against the backdrop of one of Delhi’s most iconic monuments.

The inaugural evening began with ‘Pratishtha’, a dazzling presentation by Maitryee Pahari and her troupe, followed by an evocative Odissi duet by the renowned mother-daughter duo, Sujata Mohapatra and Preetisha Mohapatra. The performances showcased grace and depth, drawing the audience into the timeless storytelling of classical dance.

As the night unfolded, Manipuri rhythms by Bimbavati Devi’s ensemble lifted the tempo, before the festival’s showstopper—an enthralling Bharatanatyam performance by Sridevi Nrityalaya—brought the evening to a powerful

conclusion.

The festival was inaugurated by Kapil Mishra, Delhi’s Minister of Tourism, Art & Culture, who praised the initiative as a milestone in Delhi’s cultural landscape. “Purana Qila today stands witness to more than just dance—it reflects the confluence of India’s diverse traditions. This festival is a strong medium to connect future generations with art and heritage,” he said, urging Delhiites to participate in large numbers.

In his address, Mishra highlighted the Delhi government’s commitment to cultural revival, noting that in recent months, large-scale celebrations of Navratri, Garba, and Teej had also been organized for the first time on such a scale in the city.

For art lovers, the festival offers a rare opportunity to witness some of the finest exponents of Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam on a single platform. Each performance is designed not just as entertainment but as a window into India’s layered traditions and artistic legacy.

As the curtain rose on the first evening, Purana Qila—bathed in soft light and echoes of ghungroos—reminded the city that art and heritage remain at the heart of Delhi’s cultural identity.

The Indraprastha Nritya Mahotsav will continue over the weekend, with free entry for all, promising audiences more enchanting glimpses of India’s classical dance traditions.