New Delhi, 19 October (H.S.): Scholars from five countries joined Indian artists to present 'Adi Shakti', a 45-minute dance drama at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi on Sunday, showcasing Indian mythology and spiritual traditions through an international cultural collaboration.

Participants from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Venezuela and Nigeria came together for the production, which explored the story of Sati and Mahadev and the cosmic cycles of creation, destruction and transformation.

The performance centred on Mahamaya, the supreme feminine energy associated with creation and cosmic order. Through dance, music and theatrical storytelling, it portrayed Sati's birth, penance, union with Shiva and self-sacrifice, followed by Mahadev's Tandava and the different manifestations of Mahamaya.

The production also drew a symbolic comparison between Mahamaya's immeasurable power and the mysterious force of a black hole, linking Indian spiritual narratives with broader questions about existence and transformation.

The basic concept was developed by ICCR scholar Shuman Saha, while Trina Rani Dhar led the story, choreography and direction. The performance featured international scholars alongside Indian artists.

The participating scholars from Bangladesh were Trina Rani Dhar, Suman Saha, Punam Mohonto, Brototy Roy and Godhulee Prarthana Cadet. Indonesia was represented by Indah Permata Sari Br Sebayang and Chaitri Prabha Shalini, Kazakhstan by Assel Adilbekova, Venezuela by Radharani Azuaje and Rukmini Paredes, and Nigeria by Ejeh Sandra Inyangbeal.

The production highlighted the role of cultural exchange in bringing people from different countries together through shared artistic experiences. By involving international scholars in a collaborative performance, the initiative provided them an opportunity to engage directly with Indian heritage and traditions.

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations promotes cultural ties with countries worldwide through educational exchanges, scholarships and artistic initiatives. Such programmes provide international students opportunities to experience Indian culture and build connections beyond the classroom.

India Habitat Centre Director Prof. K. G. Suresh said the institution was committed to providing a platform for art, culture and intellectual exchange. He said performances such as 'Adi Shakti' helped celebrate India's cultural heritage while bringing artists and audiences from different countries closer through dance.

The performance presented cultural diplomacy through the shared language of the performing arts, bringing together artists from five countries on one stage in the national capital.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar