Chhau Dancer Gitanjali Hembram to Perform at Hyderabad Dance Festival

The forthcoming Nrityangana Women’s Dance Festival in Hyderabad looks to showcase diverse cultural practices through mesmerizing performances.

JAMSHEDPUR – The Ravindra Bharathi Main Hall in Hyderabad, Telangana, is set to host the "Nrityangana — A Women’s Dance Festival" on Wednesday, July 19. This promising event is a joint effort by Singidi Cultural Organisation Hyderabad and the Department of Language and Culture, Government of Telangana.

The festival will witness the talent of Gitanjali Hembram, a renowned performer of the Saraikela Dance form. At the age of 38, Gitanjali has devoted a significant part of her life to the traditional Chhau Nritya Kala of Saraikela, beginning her dance journey when she was merely 11. As a housewife, she has continued to enhance the stature of the Saraikela Chhau with her dedication and impressive performances.

In addition to Gitanjali’s much-anticipated performance, the festival will feature other gifted dancers. Mary Illangoan from Canada is set to present a Bharatnatyam performance, while Ramona Yvette from Karnataka will stage a Yakshagana performance. Dr. Athira Nandan from Kerala will captivate the audience with a Kathakali dance. The line-up thus ensures a rich blend of diverse cultural practices, offering an opportunity for a creative dialogue.