Kolkata, March 2, 2026: The historic Central Courtyard of the Indian Museum came alive with colour, rhythm, and devotion as eminent Odissi exponent Dona Ganguly curated and led a spectacular presentation at Vasanta Utsav 2026 on March 1.
Organised by the Indian Museum in collaboration with Prabha Khaitan Foundation and Diksha Manjari under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, the evening celebrated the spirit of spring through classical artistry and cultural continuity. The event drew art connoisseurs, dignitaries, senior citizens, and families, reaffirming Kolkata’s enduring relationship with heritage and the performing arts.
The festival featured a thoughtfully curated showcase by Dona Ganguly along with the accomplished students of Diksha Manjari, her distinguished Odissi institution. The repertoire captured the essence of Vasanta—a season symbolising renewal, joy, and creative blossoming—through evocative choreography, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling rooted in classical tradition.
The performance underscored Dona Ganguly’s enduring contribution to Indian classical dance and her steadfast commitment to nurturing the next generation of artistes. Her choreography seamlessly blended traditional grammar with lyrical interpretation, creating a presentation that was both spiritually resonant and aesthetically refined. The audience responded with deep appreciation, many visibly moved by the grace and emotional depth of the evening.
Enhancing the cultural richness of the programme were soulful renditions of Rabindra Sangeet under the direction of Ananda Gupta, adding a melodic dimension to the celebration. The evening’s narrative was eloquently anchored by Sundeep Bhutoria, whose poetic commentary provided context and continuity to the unfolding performances.
Speaking on the occasion, Dona Ganguly said:“Spring symbolises renewal, hope, and harmony. Through Vasanta Utsav, we celebrate not only the beauty of the season but also the continuity of our cultural heritage. It gives me immense joy to see my students carry forward the spirit of Odissi with sincerity and passion. Performing in a historic space like the Indian Museum reminds us that tradition must always remain alive and evolving.”
For decades, Dona Ganguly has served as a torchbearer of Odissi in Bengal, building a vibrant cultural movement through Diksha Manjari that continues to inspire artistic discipline and pride in India’s classical traditions. Her leadership at Vasanta Utsav 2026 once again reaffirmed her stature as one of the foremost cultural ambassadors of the state.
The evening concluded with a standing ovation, reflecting the impact of her artistic vision and reinforcing the relevance of classical dance in contemporary cultural discourse.