Chandigarh University Hosts Grand International Dance and Music Festival
Chandigarh University in Mohali transformed into a vibrant global stage on Monday. The India International Dance and Music Festival 2026 kicked off with breathtaking energy. Over 350 international artists from 33 countries performed on the opening day. The two-day festival carries the theme "One World, Many Cultures." It promises to be a spectacular celebration of global artistic traditions.
High-Profile Inauguration with Government Dignitaries
The festival opened with significant political and cultural figures in attendance. Haryana Minister of Heritage and Tourism Arvind Kumar Sharma served as the chief guest. He emphasized the festival's alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam." This ancient Indian philosophy translates to "the world is one family." The minister highlighted how such events bring nations closer together. They foster harmony, mutual respect, and deeper global understanding.
K Nandini Singla, Director General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), attended as guest of honour. The ICCR organized the festival in association with the Ministry of External Affairs. Singla called the event a unique cultural platform. She noted it allows foreign students to showcase their art in India. Simultaneously, Indian students gain opportunities to perform abroad. She credited the Ministry of Culture and External Affairs for promoting Indian dance forms worldwide.
Satnam Singh Sandhu, Rajya Sabha member and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, also graced the occasion. He spoke passionately about art's unifying power. "Art is a universal language," Sandhu declared. He described it as the strongest medium to bring nations together. The chancellor reaffirmed the university's commitment to cultural diplomacy. He pointed to over 3,000 international students from 65 countries currently studying at CU. This, he said, reflects India's growing appeal as a global education hub.
A Spectacular Parade of Global Performances
The festival grounds buzzed with color and rhythm from morning. International troupes dressed in colorful traditional attire participated in a vibrant cultural procession. They marched across the CU campus, celebrating unity in diversity. The visual spectacle set a joyous tone for the day's events.
Performances spanned continents and artistic styles. Artists from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, and the Maldives delivered spectacular shows. Groups from Lithuania, Uzbekistan, and Burkina Faso also took the stage. Performers from over 25 other countries added to the rich tapestry. These included Nepal, Bhutan, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ghana, and Madagascar.
The opening performance set a high standard. The Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival led by Dr L Subramaniam and Kavita Krishnamurthy Subramaniam performed. They collaborated with renowned Kazakh ensembles, creating a fusion of Indian and Central Asian music.
Specific groups captured special attention. The 15-member Folklore Ensemble 'Aalam' and Dance Group 'Ademi' from the Kyrgyz Republic presented traditional pieces. Folk and contemporary dance groups from Kyrgyzstan and Malaysia further enthralled the audience. Their dynamic movements and authentic costumes received enthusiastic applause.
Building Bridges Through Cultural Exchange
The festival serves a deeper purpose beyond entertainment. It functions as a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy. Minister Sharma noted these interactions help students learn about diverse cultures, rituals, and traditions. International participants simultaneously get introduced to India's rich heritage. This two-way exchange builds lasting connections between nations.
Chandigarh University's campus provided the perfect setting for this global gathering. The institution has actively positioned itself as a promoter of international dialogue. The festival reinforces India's soft power on the world stage. It projects the nation as a welcoming, culturally rich destination for global talent.
As the first day concluded, the message resonated clearly. Art truly transcends borders. It unites humanity through shared expressions of beauty and tradition. The India International Dance and Music Festival 2026 stands as a testament to multicultural harmony. It proves that despite our differences, we can celebrate together on a common platform of creativity and respect.
