Kolkata | January 20, 2026
The profound union of devotion, art and spirituality came alive in Kolkata as Margazhi Utsavam—a sacred cultural observance deeply rooted in South Indian tradition—was celebrated through an evocative Indian classical dance presentation at the Sri Guruvayurappan Temple, Kalighat.
Margazhi Utsavam, observed across southern India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, is regarded as an auspicious period for meditation, sadhana (spiritual discipline) and heightened devotion. The festival underscores the belief that divine communion is best attained not merely through ritualistic practice, but through pure, unadulterated devotion—often expressed most powerfully through music and dance.
Bringing this spiritual essence to Bengal, where Margazhi Utsavam is relatively unfamiliar, eminent danseuse Natyasri Smt. Debjani Chatterjee, along with her dance institution Prabaha Kalabhoomi, introduced Kolkata audiences to the sanctity and aesthetic depth of the festival. A two-hour Indian classical dance programme was curated with meticulous devotion, presenting dance as a sacred medium of communication with the divine.
The event witnessed participation from acclaimed artists drawn from different parts of India and overseas, selected through an application process for the prestigious platform. The performances spanned a rich spectrum of classical dance forms, including Mohiniattam, Odissi, Manipuri and Bharatanatyam, each reflecting the spiritual philosophy, grace and rhythmic precision unique to its tradition. The artistes left no stone unturned in showcasing the timeless beauty and expressive depth of India’s classical heritage.
Every performance resonated with devotion and artistic excellence, leaving the audience spellbound and creating moments of deep spiritual introspection. The programme stood as a testimony to how classical dance transcends entertainment to become an offering to the divine.
Adding further distinction to the occasion, renowned stalwarts from the world of performing arts—Dr. Thankamani Kutti, Dr. Mahua Mukherjee, Sri G. V. Subramanian, Sri R. Joyee Kumar, Smt. Amita Dutta and Smt. Preeti Patel—were present to grace the event, lending it an aura of prestige and cultural significance.
The evening concluded on a traditional and devotional note with the distribution of prasadam to all attendees, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity, gratitude and divine blessings that Margazhi Utsavam embodies.
The celebration not only marked a cultural milestone in Kolkata’s artistic calendar but also served as a bridge connecting regions through shared spirituality, devotion and the timeless language of Indian classical dance.
