Nakshatra, launched in 2009, is the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)\u2019s annual group dance festival. Over its last 13 editions, it has featured recitals by a number of Indian classical dance\u2019s finest choreographer-dancers and their troupes. Some of the artists who have performed at the festival include bharatanatyam exponents Alarmel Valli, Chitra Visweswaran, C. V. Chandrasekhar and Rama Vaidyanathan; kathak stalwarts Aditi Mangaldas, Akram Khan, Rajashree Shirke, Rajendra Gangani, Saswati Sen and Uma Dogra; and Odissi stars Madhavi Mudgal, Ranjana Gauhar and Sharmila Biswas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year the festival opens on 03 October 2024 at the Experimental Theatre with two performances: \u2018The Story of Kuriyedathu Thatri\u2019 by Dr. Neena Prasad and troupe, and \u2018Samanvaya\u2019 by Pandita Shama Bhate\u2019s Nadroop. On 06 October 2024, the Jamshed Bhabha Theatre at NCPA will host two notable pieces: \u2018Atah Kim\u2019 by Kumudini Lakhia\u2019s Kadamb Centre for Dance, and \u2018PRAVAHATI: The Force Forward\u2019 by Geeta Chandran and the Natya Vriksha Dance Collective. The festival concludes on 26 October 2024 at the Jamshed Bhabha Theatre with two performances: \u2018The Game of Dice\u2019 by Santosh Nair & troupe, and \u2018Bahurang\u2019 by Nirupama & Rajendra, along with the Abhinava Dance Company.
Through Nakshatra, the NCPA continues its commitment to promoting cultural heritage by providing a platform for classical dance forms to flourish. By showcasing both iconic and contemporary works, the festival fosters a deeper appreciation of Indian dance traditions and supports the ongoing dialogue between the past and the present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n