When rhythm meets legacy: Celebrating 30 years of movement and magic

The Belgharia Nimta Boys’ Athletic Playground transformed into a vibrant arena of rhythm and colour as the Nrital Chanda Dance Centre (NCDC) celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand cultural evening titled ‘30-er Jalsa’.

Founded and helmed by Sourav Chanda—noted dancer, choreographer, and Zee Bangla Director—NCDC has, over the past three decades, evolved into a respected cultural institution dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting dance as a way of life.

Designed as a showcase for emerging performers, 30-er Jalsa featured students from across age groups presenting a dynamic repertoire spanning classical, contemporary, freestyle and fusion styles. From soulful Rabindra Sangeet-based pieces to electrifying modern choreographies, each performance reflected precision, grace and the creative energy that defines NCDC’s training ethos.

The evening opened with a series of performances set to Rabindra Sangeet, followed by a moving dance-drama, “Meera Bai”, that drew heartfelt applause. Popular Hindi, Bengali and Western numbers added a celebratory pulse to the programme, while a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony for 30-er Jalsa brought warmth and nostalgia to the festivities.

A standout moment of the evening came from an unexpected group — twelve senior citizens, all retired professionals above the age of 65. Guided by Sourav Chanda, their performance radiated joy and conviction, proving that dance truly has no age. It was a reminder that art remains a timeless bridge between passion and purpose.

The event was attended by an esteemed gathering of artists and cultural figures including Malabika Sen, Bratati Choudhury, Sritama Bhattacharya, Deboparna Chakraborty, Deboleena Dutta, Kohinoor Sen Barat, and Debraj Chakraborty. The programme was inaugurated by State Fire Services Minister Sujit Bose and MLA Madan Mitra, lending prestige and encouragement to the celebration.

Reflecting on the milestone, Sourav Chanda, Founder and Director of NCDC, said, “This day is very special for me and for Nrital Chanda Dance Centre. We are completing 30 years of a beautiful journey. Over these decades, I have remained connected with thousands of students and learned so much from them. Today we also unveiled a new logo for NCDC. Art has the power to change lives, and that has always been our mission -to teach dance, create cultural platforms and transform lives through creativity.”

With vibrant costumes, dynamic lighting and synchronised choreography, the open-air venue turned into a stage of celebration and emotion. Proud parents, teachers and well-wishers watched as the young dancers showcased not just technical skill but maturity, discipline and teamwork that spoke volumes of their training.

As the final act drew to a close, the audience rose in a standing ovation, applauding not only the performers but the three-decade-long journey of NCDC -a legacy built on passion, perseverance and the transformative power of dance.

Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”