VMPL

New Delhi [India], May 1: The India Habitat Centre marked World Dance Day with an evocative evening titled *Nritya Udhyaan - The Garden of Dances*, conceived and choreographed by Jayaprabha Menon. Presented by the International Academy of Mohiniattam, the production brought together Indian and international dance traditions in a thoughtfully curated exploration of the seasons and the universality of movement.

The evening was graced by Kuchipudi legend Padma Bhushan Raja Reddy & Prof. (Dr.) K.G. Suresh, Director, India Habitat Centre, who felicitated Smt. Jayaprabha Menon. The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolising the auspicious commencement of the performance.

Speaking on the history & theme of World Dance Day, Prof. Suresh said, 'Dance has always been one of the most powerful expressions of our shared humanity. Even as it is deeply rooted in individual cultures, it has the rare ability to transcend boundaries and bring people together. This evening beautifully reflects that spirit, where tradition and creativity come together in harmony.'

In his address, Raja Reddy hailed IHC's role in preserving & promoting classical dance forms.

*Nritya Udhyaan* drew from the classical Indian aesthetic framework, interpreting *Angikam* as nature itself, *Vaachikam* as the sounds of thunder and rain, *Aahaarya* as the changing hues of the seasons, and *Satvikam* as the emotions and inner experience evoked within.

The performance opened with *Cherumattu*, evoking the primal connection between nature and movement. Through imagery of thunder, lightning, and the gentle onset of rain, it symbolised renewal and the beginning of a new seasonal cycle.

The narrative then moved into Spring, where Indian classical dance intertwined with Cambodian influences, celebrating vitality, blossoming life, and cultural exchange.

From there, the production transitioned into *Sharad Ritu* or Autumn. The stage reflected the quiet beauty of falling leaves and moonlit stillness, expressed through Mohiniattam and Manipuri Raas, bringing forth grace, devotion, and serenity.

The journey extended to Indonesia with the *Tor Tor* dance of the Batak community of North Sumatra. With its rhythmic footwork and grounded energy, it symbolised ancestral connection, unity, and reverence.

Summer followed as a striking contrast, portrayed through Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. The choreography captured the intensity of heat, the depletion of energy, and the longing that defines the season.

This gave way to a lively Bangladeshi folk segment, celebrating resilience and simple joys through depictions of everyday life, community, and shared rhythm.

The performance then travelled to Venezuela with *Pajarillo*, a vibrant piece from the Joropo tradition, where the imagery of a bird became a symbol of freedom, love, and a restless spirit.

The evening concluded with the powerful rhythms of Africa, completing a global tapestry of dance.

*Nritya Udhyaan - The Garden of Dances* stood as a reminder that while cultures, geographies, and traditions may differ, the rhythm of life remains universal, connecting us all through movement and shared emotion.

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