City dancers to perform at Delhi R-Day parade

Nagpur: Over 50 dancers from the city's Shreekrishna Nrithalayam have been selected to perform Mohiniyattam at the Republic Day Parade 2026 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi.The students will present the "Dance of the Enchantress" during the national celebrations on January 26, in the august presence of President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and this year's chief guests, Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.The performance forms part of a grand cultural tableau involving around 2,500 artists from across the country, curated under central theme "Svatantrata Ka Mantra – Vande Mataram". The theme reflects India's journey of freedom while celebrating its artistic and cultural traditions.Selected students underwent intensive training and rehearsals beginning Jan 13 to prepare for the high-profile event. Their choreography highlights subtle expressions, lyrical movements and grace that define Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form rooted in Kerala's heritage.The selection was made by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, a recognition that places the Nagpur-based institution on a prestigious national platform. Prameela Unnikrishnan, director of Shreekrishna Nrithalayam, said the honour reflects years of training and commitment. "It is an extraordinary privilege for us to represent Mohiniyattam at an event of such magnitude. I appreciate the dedication shown by the students during rehearsals. We look forward to presenting the spiritual depth of this art form before the nation's leadership and distinguished guests," she said.