The Bandra Cultural Utsav 2026, organised by Shree Paavitra Arts Academy in association with Dani Performance Project, will be held on Saturday, January 31, at the iconic Carter Road Promenade, Bandra, transforming the public space into a vibrant platform for Indian performing arts.
The evening brings together classical and folk dance traditions from across the country, offering Mumbai audiences an enriching cultural experience rooted in India’s diverse heritage. Dance forms including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and folk traditions will be presented, highlighting the depth, grace, and continuity of India’s living art forms.
The Utsav will be inaugurated by Hon. Minister of Information Techology, Cultural Affairs of Maharashtra Mr. Ashish Shelar. Mrs. Swapna Mhatre, BJP Corporator, Mumbai, will attend the programme as the Special Guest. The event will further be graced by distinguished Guests of Honour including Ms. Diana Marfatia, Principal of Bai Avabai Framji Petit Girls’ High School; Ms. Amla Ashok Ruia, Founder and Chairperson of Aakar Charitable Trust; Shri Dinesh Pallewad, Assistant Commissioner, H/West Ward Office, Mumbai; and Major General Deepak Saxena, Director, Bai Kabibai & Hansraj Morarji Charity Trust.
The inaugural performance of the Utsav will feature a captivating Kathak recital by Keka Sinha of the Kalapi Centre of Performing Arts. Known for her expressive abhinaya, refined aesthetics, and rhythmic precision, the artiste will set a dignified and auspicious tone for the festival with a performance deeply rooted in classical tradition.
Among the notable group presentations are a vibrant Rajasthani folk dance “Ghoomar”, performed by students of MPS Supari Tank English School, Bandra West, guided by Ms. Sangita Parmar, showcasing the enthusiasm and cultural engagement of young learners.
The festival is being curated and led by Dr. Nandhini Ashok, Founder–Director of Shree Paavitra Arts Academy, a noted classical arts educator committed to integrating Indian performing arts into educational frameworks in India and abroad. Through curriculum-based programmes, workshops, and performances, the academy continues to promote cultural awareness, artistic excellence, and global cultural exchange.
Hosted in the heart of Bandra, the Bandra Cultural Utsav 2026 will reaffirm Mumbai’s role as a welcoming public stage for classical and folk arts, fostering inclusivity, learning, and cultural dialogue among artists and audiences alike.