ICCR Showcases India’s Heritage

Bhubaneswar: India’s cultural richness and diversity took center stage at a grand cultural programme organized by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) this evening. Themed ‘Bharat and Bharatiyata,’ the event was a highlight of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations in Bhubaneswar.

Artists from across the country mesmerized the audience with a blend of folk and classical dance performances. The presentation, set inside a giant ship, portrayed the struggles of the Girmitiyas—Indian indentured laborers who faced hardships abroad. Their journey was vividly depicted through Chhau and contemporary dance, with a projected clock on the ship symbolizing the passage of time.

The performance opened with a Kuchipudi dance showcasing the Sindhu-Saraswati civilization, highlighting India’s maritime trade and cultural connections. It included elements of the Ramayana and Buddha’s spiritual journey, emphasizing India’s ancient wisdom and its ongoing message of universal peace and harmony.

The program also featured classical Tarana music and a fusion of dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Manipuri, Kathakali, and Kuchipudi. The dancers, adorned in exquisite costumes, captivated the audience with their artistry.

The presentation celebrated India’s maritime history, particularly Odisha’s role in trade and cultural exchange, tracing connections from the Harappan era to modern times. The event was a testament to India’s enduring legacy of cultural and artistic excellence.