The Festival of New Choreographies – KalaYatra 2026 is now in its final phase. It had a successful first three days on January 13, 14, and 15, and will have two epic evenings on January 28 and 29, 2026. The Kamani Auditorium, which is famous for its architecture, will host the finale. This will be the end of a celebration of modern dance styles that are based on classical Indian dance.
A Collaborative Cultural Commitment
Jointly presented by the Department of Art, Culture & Language, Government of NCT of Delhi, and Padma Vibhushan awardee Sonal Mansingh, KalaYatra 2026 reflects a shared commitment to nurturing India’s living classical traditions. The festival foregrounds new choreographies that draw from Bharatiya civilisational values while responding to contemporary sensibilities.
Curated by Sonal Mansingh for CICD
Curated by Dr. Sonal Mansingh for the Centre for Indian Classical Dances (CICD), the festival brings together 10 new choreographies presented by eminent dance institutions from across India. Following an overwhelming audience response to the opening days, anticipation now builds for the festival’s much-awaited finale.
Day Four Highlights: 28th January
The fourth day opens with Duryodhana, presented by Srjan, Bhubaneswar, under the guidance of Guru Ratikant Mohapatra. The choreography explores the psychological depth of Duryodhana, one of the Mahabharata’s most complex characters, tracing his arrogance, rage, and ultimate downfall leading to the Kurukshetra war.
This is followed by Chakravyuha by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra, New Delhi, a powerful retelling of young Abhimanyu’s tragic journey. Drawing from Mayurbhanj Chhau and Kalaripayattu, the production captures both the ferocity of battle and the emotional poignancy of Abhimanyu’s fate.
Day Five Highlights: 29th January
The final evening opens with Bheema, presented by Chidakash Kalalay Centre of Art and Divinity, Kolkata, and directed by Piyal Bhattacharya. Performed in the Marga Natya style, the choreography depicts Bheema’s transformative encounter with Hanuman during his quest for the Saugandhika Pushpa, culminating in spiritual revelation and the imparting of Sanatana Dharma.
The festival concludes with Matrika by Rainbow Dance Troupe, Barasat, India’s all-LGBTQ+ professional dance ensemble, directed by Ratri Das. Inspired by the creation of Shakti and the emergence of the Matrikas, the production celebrates the collective power of the divine feminine through a visually striking narrative of strength, protection, and transformation.
Festival Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Festival | Festival of New Choreographies – KalaYatra 2026 |
| Final Dates | 28th & 29th January, 2026 |
| Earlier Dates | 13th, 14th & 15th January, 2026 |
| Venue | Kamani Auditorium, Mandi House, New Delhi |
| Curator | Dr. Sonal Mansingh |
| Presented By | Department of Art, Culture & Language, Govt. of NCT of Delhi & CICD |
Conclusion
As KalaYatra 2026 comes to an end, the festival shows that Indian classical dance is still a living, changing tradition. The last performances will be an immersive celebration of movement, mythology, and meaning that will bring this landmark festival to a powerful close. They will use powerful stories from the Mahabharata and explore divine and human consciousness.
