Grace and Glory: Padma Shri Nalini-Kamalini Illuminate Kala Sankul Symposium

The monthly cultural symposium held at Sanskar Bharati’s central office, Kala Sankul, has blossomed into a vibrant celebration of Indian art and heritage, where the essence of tradition comes alive in its most graceful form. This month’s gathering was made truly special by the presence of the Chief Guest, Padma Shri Smt. Nalini-Kamalini, the renowned Kathak duo, whose distinguished contribution to Indian classical dance brought gravitas and inspiration to the evening.

The program began with the auspicious lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the light of knowledge and culture. The ceremony was conducted by Padma Shri Shrimati Nalini-Kamalini, Sh. Vijay Kumar (Regional Organizational Secretary, Sanskar Bharati), Sh. Ashok Tiwari (President, Kala Sankul), Smt. Shruti Sinha, and Sh. Raj Upadhyay (Coordinator, Performing Arts, Delhi Region).

The cultural performances commenced with a mesmerizing Kathak recital by Ms. Anjali Munjal, who beautifully portrayed the depth of classical dance through an elegant blend of laya, taal, and expressive bhaav. She was followed by Ms. Damini Bisht, whose powerful Kathak performance, enriched with emotive expressions and rhythmic finesse, captivated the audience.

The evening reached a deeper resonance when the Chief Guest, Padma Shri Shrimati Nalini-Kamalini, took to the stage to address the gathering. Kamalini ji shared,

“Art is not merely an expression—it is the beauty of the soul, shaped by years of devotion and discipline. It refines the individual and uplifts society.”

She emphasized the value of consistency, purity, and dedication in artistic practice, highlighting art’s transformative power as a tool for national development.

“In today’s world,” she said, “art awakens inner consciousness, fosters social unity, and becomes a powerful medium for cultural resurgence.”

The symposium was gracefully anchored by Garima Rani and Shri Vishwadeep, who maintained a seamless flow and upheld the dignity of the evening. The event was enriched by the presence of many eminent personalities from the cultural sphere, including Sh. Pradeep Mohanty (Registrar, National School of Drama), Kathak Guru Subhash Ji, Chhau exponent Sapan Acharya Ji, renowned Kathak artist Anu Sinha, Deepali Sinha, and the duo Vikash-Aparna, among others.

The success of the event was the result of sincere efforts by a committed team of volunteers: Shraboni Saha, Sneha Mukherjee, Sakshi Sharma, Bharti Dang, Priyanka, Nandini, Aanchal, Ayushi, Sakshi, Tarushi, Senior Theatre Artist Shyam Kumar, Kuldeep Sharma, O.P.Sagar, Saurabh Tripathi, Raman, Harshit, Digvijay Pandey, Brijesh, Shivam, Satyam, and Mrityunjay—whose dedication brought vitality to the entire celebration.

Toward the end, Smt. Shruti Sinha delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all artists, dignitaries, and organizers. The symposium concluded with the collective chanting of the Shanti Mantra, a sacred moment that left an everlasting impression of the divinity and elegance of Indian art and culture in the hearts of all present.