Dr Sandhya Purecha on Global Dance Overture: How Dance is Strengthening India-Russia Cultural Diplomacy

An eminent scholar, performer, and researcher in Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam is Dr Sandhya Purecha. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s apex institution for the performing arts under the Ministry of Culture.

A recipient of numerous national and international honours, she has made significant contributions to dance education, research, and cultural preservation. Under her leadership, the Akademi has expanded its efforts in promoting India’s artistic heritage and fostering international cultural exchanges. She is widely respected for her dedication to preserving and promoting India’s rich performing arts traditions.a tête-à-têtes with her on Global Dance Overture and using Dance as diplomacy.

The Global Dance Overture in India has been widely appreciated as a landmark cultural exchange between India and Russia. What inspired this initiative?

The idea was to create a meaningful platform where artists from different nations could come together through the universal language of dance. Cultural exchange has always been one of the strongest bridges between countries, and through the Global Dance Overture, we wanted to celebrate not only artistic excellence but also friendship, mutual respect, and shared human values. Collaborating with the Kostroma Russian National Ballet provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen cultural ties between India and Russia.

The project combined both educational and performance-oriented activities. Why was that important?

At Sangeet Natak Akademi, we believe cultural exchange should go beyond performances. Education and interaction are equally important. The workshops and class-concerts held at Meghdoot Theatre allowed young artists from both countries to learn directly from one another. Russian students demonstrated their folk-stage dance traditions, while Indian artists showcased the richness of our regional folk forms. These interactions create lasting artistic relationships and deepen understanding of each other’s cultures.

The workshops received tremendous appreciation. Could you tell us more about them?

Certainly. One of the highlights was the Russian folk dance workshop conducted by Honoured Artist of the Russian Federation, Irina Rubtsova. She introduced Indian dancers to the intricate techniques and theatrical qualities of Russian folk choreography. Equally enriching was the session by renowned Indian choreographer Subhash Nakashe, who shared the beauty and diversity of Indian folk dance traditions with the Russian participants. The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by both groups were truly heartwarming.

The “Round Dance of Friendship” flash mob became one of the most memorable moments of the exchange.

Yes, it was a beautiful culmination of the educational programme. Young dancers from India and Russia came together in a symbolic performance celebrating peace, harmony, kindness, and friendship. It demonstrated how art can unite people irrespective of language, nationality, or background.

The grand finale at Kamani Theatre was spectacular. What made that evening special?

The performance was extraordinary because it showcased the cultural richness of both nations on a single stage. The Kostroma Russian National Ballet presented their acclaimed Russian National Dance Show, featuring magnificent costumes, large ensemble choreography, and authentic folk traditions from different regions of Russia.

At the same time, Indian artists presented Jayati Jaya Mama Bharatam, a specially curated composition celebrating India’s cultural diversity through classical and folk dance traditions. Watching Indian and Russian dancers share the same stage created a powerful artistic dialogue that resonated deeply with the audience.

What role does Sangeet Natak Akademi play in fostering such international collaborations?

One of our core responsibilities is to preserve India’s performing arts heritage while encouraging meaningful cultural dialogue with the world. Through initiatives like the Global Dance Overture, we provide opportunities for artists to learn from one another and build relationships that extend beyond a single event. Such collaborations strengthen India’s position as a global centre for cultural exchange.

Do you see dance playing a larger role in international diplomacy?

Absolutely. Dance has the unique ability to communicate emotions and stories without words. It transcends political boundaries and cultural differences. Projects like this demonstrate that artistic collaboration can foster understanding, goodwill, and lasting friendships between nations. In many ways, dance serves as a powerful form of cultural diplomacy.

The programme also introduced future collaborative opportunities.

Yes. We are particularly excited about initiatives such as the upcoming International Creative Dacha residency programme in Kostroma, Russia. Such programmes will allow artists and educators from different countries to continue their intercultural learning and creative collaborations.

Finally, what message would you like audiences to take away from the Global Dance Overture?

I would like people to remember that culture has the power to unite humanity. The success of this project was made possible through the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, the Embassy of the Russian Federation in India, and the encouragement of Shri Vivek Agarwal, Culture Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Their vision and commitment helped create a truly historic celebration of friendship.

As the curtains came down at Kamani Theatre, what remained was not just the memory of remarkable performances but the feeling of two great cultures embracing one another through rhythm, movement, and shared artistic expression. The Global Dance Overture reminded us that dance remains one of humanity’s most powerful languages—one that continues to connect hearts beyond borders.

Sandip Soparrkar holds a doctorate in world mythology folklore from Pacific University USA, an honorary doctorate in performing arts from the National American University, He is a World Book Record holder, a well-known Ballroom dancer and a Bollywood choreographer who has been honored with three National Excellence awards, one National Achievement Award and Dada Saheb Phalke award by the Government of India. He can be contacted on sandipsoparrkar06@gmail.com