The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), supported by HSBC India, is set to host another vibrant edition of the NCPA Umang – Promising Artiste Series. Dedicated to nurturing and showcasing the depth and diversity of emerging classical dancers, this highly anticipated event will take place on August 5, 2026, at the Godrej Dance Theatre.
Audiences will be treated to two spectacular evenings of Indian classical dance, featuring an Odissi recital and a dynamic Kathak presentation. Through devotional themes, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling, these performances will highlight the evolving excellence of India’s classical traditions.
Odissi Nrityargha: A Devotional Journey
The evening will feature Odissi Nrityargha, a thoughtfully curated collection of traditional Odissi repertoire pieces performed by Dr. Pompi Paul and Rahul Roy. The recital traces the lyrical and rhythmic dimensions of the art form, opening with the invocatory Mangalacharan – Manikya Veena, a Sanskrit hymn by Kalidasa dedicated to Goddess Shyamala.
The graceful performance will then transition into the Sringar Pallavi (Raga Ananda Bhairavi) and Kasturi Tilakam, an expressive piece celebrating the divinity of Lord Krishna. The Odissi showcase will conclude with a powerful rendition of the Shiv Tandava Stotram, portraying Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance through vigorous choreography.
Internationally acclaimed danseuse Dr. Pompi Paul, a recipient of the Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Yuva Pratibha Samman 2024, leads the performance. Having performed globally—including at the 2022 G20 Summit in Indonesia—Dr. Paul is joined by her senior disciple of 15 years, Rahul Roy, an award-winning Grade ‘B’ artiste of Doordarshan.
Rudra-Shakti: The Untamed Cosmic Energy
Contrasting the lyrical grace of Odissi is Rudra-Shakti, a high-octane Kathak presentation led by Dr. Khushboo Panchal alongside Purva Bhalerao and Yaashi Garg. This performance explores the primordial union of Shiva and Shakti—the cosmic forces of creation and balance.
Rooted in the rich aesthetics of the Banaras gharana, Rudra-Shakti begins with sacred invocatory shlokas portraying Ardhanarishvara. It unfolds into traditional Kathak compositions featuring complex footwork, expressive abhinaya, and energetic bandishes dedicated to the divine couple.
Dr. Khushboo Panchal, an internationally recognized exponent of the Banaras and Kudu Singh gharanas and a gandabandh disciple of legendary choreographer Saroj Khan, brings her mastery to the stage alongside her dedicated students from the Nrityaradhana Nritya Mandir.
Event Details & Attendance
The NCPA Umang series serves as a critical platform for emerging artists to connect with audiences while contributing to the preservation of India’s classical heritage.
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Venue: Godrej Dance Theatre, NCPA, Mumbai
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Date: August 5, 2026
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Time: 6:30 PM
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Entry Fee: Free (on a first-come, first-served basis)
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Age Limit: 6+ years
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Rules: Late entry is not permitted
About the NCPA
Inaugurated in 1969, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) is India’s premier cultural institution and the first multi-venue, multi-genre cultural center in South Asia. Hosting over 700 events annually, the NCPA remains committed to preserving and promoting India’s vibrant artistic heritage across music, dance, theatre, and beyond.
