A unique event on the cultural calendar, the Jaipur Dance Conclave celebrates the timeless beauty and continuing evolution of Indian dance. Rooted in tradition, these art forms come alive in the historic city of Jaipur. This will be the first year of this festival, the only one of its kind in Rajasthan, bringing awareness of India’s varied dance forms to Jaipur audiences.

JDC brings the best of dance from all over India, to Jaipur with performances, workshops and discussions. The festival kicked-off with a special curtain-raiser performance on 5 November at Rajasthan International Centre, by Odissi guru Sharmila Biswas, a Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee (2012), and dancers of Odissi Vision and Movement Centre, Kolkata.

During the main two-days of the festival, to be held on 22 and 23 November at Rajasthan International Centre, audiences will get an opportunity to watch outstanding dance performances, listen to the wisdom and experience of senior gurus, hear from younger artists,and gather for a celebration of dance. The evening performances feature such outstanding artists as Padmashri Madhavi Mudgal (Odissi), Padmashri Leela Samson (Bharatanatyam), and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Prerana Shrimali (Kathak). They will present their innovative group choreographies along with their students. Outstanding young artists, such as Kathak dancer Gauri Diwakar and Mohiniattam dancer Divya Warrier will present their new choreographies.

The festival has a special focus on local talent, including a theatrical folk performance exploring the Meena community of Rajasthan. The performances will also include a folk dance showcase and a classical performance by Jaipur Kathak Kendra. The performance ‘Manthan’ is a collaboration of dance with Kaavad Katha by Akshay Gandhi, a storytelling art form of Rajasthan. Jaipur Dance Conclave offers an opportunity for audiences to deepen their understanding of dance, with seminar sessions in the morning, and workshops in the afternoon. Children will have a chance to join dancer and actor Praachi Saathi in a fun, interactive workshop on 23 Nov based on her work combining Bharatanatyam, Warli art, and storytelling.

Each day offers a rich tapestry of rhythm, expression and movement, reflecting the cultural depth of our dance heritage. The festival is designed to appeal to a range of audiences – from passionate art lovers to curious newcomers and international visitors- creating a unique confluence of heritage and creativity in the historic city of Jaipur. JDC offers an opportunity to watch, learn and celebrate dance together.