‘Poetry of Life, Poetry in Dance: An Expert Talk by Dr. Sonal Mansingh’ delves into India’s extraordinary contributions through its dance, music, and theatre traditions – from the expressive elegance of Bharatanatyam and Odissi to the narrative depth of Hindustani classical music, and the dramatic power of Kathakali and Sanskrit theatre.  

Rooted in millennia of spiritual, philosophical, and artistic exploration, Indian performing arts have long transcended geographical boundaries – shaping creative movements, inspiring global audiences, and promoting a universal connection. This session celebrates how these classical forms remain vital and visionary in today’s interconnected world, offering tools for personal transformation, cross-cultural understanding, and artistic innovation – all rooted deeply in India’s civilisational ethos. 

At the heart of this journey is Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh – legendary dancer, choreographer, scholar, and cultural ambassador who has dedicated over six decades to preserving and reimagining Indian classical traditions. Founder of the Centre for Indian Classical Dances in New Delhi, Dr. Mansingh’s revolutionary choreographies – from Devi Durga to Mukti – have tackled contemporary themes like ecology, gender, and social justice, proving that classical art can be both timeless and urgent. 

Whether you are an artist, student, educator, or enthusiast, this session invites you to engage with the living soul of Indian classical arts, and to witness how these traditions, in all its forms, continue to shape the world’s cultural imagination.