Dubai, June 22, 2025 – The cultural heart of the UAE pulsed with grace, strength and splendour as NARI SHAKTI, a grand Indian classical dance celebration, unfolded in Dubai. The event brought together more than 100 artists across 15 performances, culminating in the powerful thematic Bharatanatyam production “Agni Kanye”, directed by Guru Iswarya Bharadwaj, founder of NANDA Performing Arts Centre and Gulf Indian Performing Arts & Music Society (GIPAMS).

Themed on the enduring strength of women, NARI SHAKTI was not just a performance but a vibrant tribute to Indian culture, feminine resilience, and community spirit. Over 2,000 multinational spectators, both on-site and online, were moved—many to tears—by the intense emotional and artistic depth of the show.

Agni Kanye: The dance of fire and justice

The centrepiece, Agni Kanye, dramatised the life of Draupadi, the fire-born heroine from the Indian epic Mahabharata. Through classical Bharatanatyam, performers aged between 5 and 50 depicted themes of justice, honour, and feminine power. The production’s intergenerational participation symbolised the continuity and unity of cultural wisdom across ages.

Each sequence, marked by stunning costumes, self-made props, and intricate choreography, illustrated key moments from Draupadi’s life—from her birth in fire to her defiance in the Kaurava court. The narrative struck a universal chord with its themes of empowerment and triumph over injustice.

Women-led, community-supported

What made NARI SHAKTI exceptional was that the entire production was organised and executed by women. This included choreography, costume design, and backstage coordination. The event was supported by several organisations including the Indian People’s Forum (IPF) Cultural Council, Trescon, SkyBlue Media, and Almarai, among others.

In a symbolic gesture of recognition, the title NARI SHAKTI was conferred on:

  • Karthika Vaidyanathan – Carnatic singer and Filmfare Awardee
  • Puja Unni – Classical dancer
  • Renuka Parameshwar – Carnatic teacher

These women were honoured for their profound impact on cultural education and community upliftment, embodying Draupadi’s strength in real life.

UAE: A land of dreams, diversity and dance

The success of NARI SHAKTI reflected the UAE’s growing status as a beacon for cultural exchange. The Emirati vision of inclusiveness and multiculturalism enabled artists from varied backgrounds to thrive and share their heritage.

Iswarya Bharadwaj’s own journey is emblematic of this inclusive ethos. Born and raised in a modest Indian family in the UAE, her rise to over 500 stages across 20 countries, including UK Parliament and Expo 2020 Dubai, showcases the immense creative opportunities the UAE offers.

Looking forward: Arts as empowerment

Iswarya’s goals extend beyond performances. She envisions launching:

  • Corporate wellness programmes infused with classical arts
  • Therapeutic arts initiatives for People of Determination (PODs)
  • Career guidance for aspiring artists
  • Special performances for UAE rulers in gratitude for their support of cultural diversity

“Our stage is not just a place to perform,” said Iswarya. “It’s where stories are retold, identities are celebrated, and communities are strengthened.”