Delhi Comes Alive with Shashvat Nartana’s Stunning Showcase of Classical Dance and Culture

New Delhi : In a display of India’s cultural magnificence, Department of Archaeology, Government of NCT of Delhi, successfully hosted Shashvat Nartana: Celebration of Movements on Sunday evening at Vasant Udhyan, Vasant Vihar, showcasing the soul of India through its classical dance heritage.

The event, held as part of the Seva Pakhwada initiative to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, brought together over 75 celebrated and emerging dancers representing eight of India’s revered classical dance forms - Kuchipudi, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Kathakali, Chhau, and Manipuri.

Guest of Honour Shri Kapil Mishra, Minister for Art, Culture & Language, commended the performers and organizers for delivering an evening that reflected India’s living heritage, spiritual depth, and unifying cultural spirit.

"Events like these bring together diverse cultural traditions on one stage, and this is just the beginning we will take such initiatives across multiple locations in the city," he said.

A Rising Star Steals the Spotlight

Among the line-up, Shambhavi Sharma, a Class 12 student from Sanskriti School, New Delhi, and a member of the Raja Radha Reddy & Group drew widespread acclaim for her dynamic Kuchipudi performance. As one of the youngest performers on stage, Shambhavi left an indelible mark not just through her mastery of the Tarangam, but also through the purpose-driven narrative behind her art.

Shambhavi’s initiative Nrityamrit merges classical dance with therapeutic expression and social outreach, embodying the very essence of the evening—art in the service of society.

“Performing at Shashvat Nartana alongside 75 incredible artists is more than a dance presentation—it is a celebration of how our ancient art forms can heal and unite communities. Through my Nrityamrit initiative, I've seen firsthand how Kuchipudi can be a bridge between cultural preservation and social impact. This platform reinforces my belief that dance isn't just about movement—it's about creating movements of change,” said Shambhavi.

Shambhavi's journey—from her exposure to rural challenges in West Champaran, Bihar to performing on Delhi’s prestigious stage—has been one of empathy, innovation, and leadership.

“To stand on that stage at Bara Lao Ka Gumbad, surrounded by masters of eight classical dance forms, is a profound responsibility we young artists carry. My journey from witnessing rural challenges in West Champaran to performing Tarangam at this prestigious event has taught me that cultural heritage and community service aren't separate paths—they're one unified mission. This Seva Pakhwada celebration, marking Prime Minister Modi's 75th birthday, perfectly embodies his vision of seva through culture—showing me how art becomes truly meaningful when it serves society while honoring our roots,” she added.

Her performance positioned her as a cultural innovator and emerging ambassador, uniting Bihar's grassroots realities with a global stage.

Evening Highlights Included Performances By:

Kuchipudi: Raja Radha Reddy & Group

Odissi: Madhavi Mudgal & Group

Bharatanatyam: Sindhu Mishra & Group

Mohiniyattam: Jaya Prabha Menon & Group

Kathak: Rani Khanam & Group

Kathakali: International Kathakali Centre

Chhau: Ramhari Mohanta & Group

Manipuri: Thiyam Shyam Singh & Group