American Natya Festival

17th American Natya Festival this weekend - June 12, 13, 14 -2026
More details on www.natya.org/
American Natya Festival 2026
National Classical Indian Dance Festival
Join us for a vibrant celebration of Indian dance traditions featuring Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, dance dramas, folk dances, and innovative choreographic works presented by acclaimed artists from across the United States.
The festival will also showcase the finalists of American Natya Idol 2026, our national classical Indian dance competition recognizing exceptional young talent.
Friday, June 12, 2026
Festival Opening Performances 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Welcome Dances by Soorya Performing Arts
Kuchipudi by Meera Rathnagiri (Wilmington, DE)
Kathak Performances by Sheela Mehta (New Jersey / Mumbai)
Thematic Bharatanatyam by the Students of Vinita Subramanyam (Austin, TX)
Andhra Natyam by Upasana School of Dance (O'Fallon, MO)
Saturday, June 13, 2026
7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
American Natya Idol 2026 Competition
5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
ZERO – Historical Dance Drama by Prasanna Kasthuri (Ballwin, MO)
Finding Joy – Creative Dance Drama by Surabhi Bharadwaj (San Francisco, CA)
Kalyana Srinivasam – Mythological Dance Drama by Pallavi Madabhushi (Charlotte, NC)
Honoring a Legacy of Artistic Excellence
A special ceremony recognizing individuals whose lifelong commitment to dance, teaching, and cultural preservation continues to inspire future generations.
Lifetime Achievement Honoree
Guru Shivagami Vanka (Portland, OR)
Distinguished Service Honorees
Guru Pallavi Madabhushi (Charlotte, NC)
Guru Surabhi Bharadwaj (San Francisco, CA)
Soujanya Madhusudhan (Atlanta, GA)
Sunday, June 14, 2026
7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
American Natya Idol 2026 Competition
2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Ghungroo – Experimental Dance Production by Samanvita Kasthuri (New York, NY)