Mysore/Mysuru: Manjira Mahotsava-2026, a three-day cultural programme, was organised by Shree Nataraja Performing Arts Centre (SNPAC), Mysuru, from Feb. 2 to 4 at Ganabharathi’s Ramagovinda Kalavedike in Kuvempunagar.
Prof. Nagesh V. Bettakote, Vice-Chancellor of KSGH Music and Performing University, who inaugurated the event, emphasised the importance of India’s classical art traditions and stated that such festivals play a vital role in creating cultural awareness among younger generation.
H.R. Bhagavan, Secretary of Hari Vidyalaya, Mysuru and Mahathi Vijayprakash, Creative Director of VP Culture Club and Partner at Dvaar Music, were the chief guests on the occasion.
They encouraged the artistes and highlighted the need for such platforms to preserve and promote Indian culture.
Dr. Kripa Phadke, Director of Nrityagiri – Academy of Performing Arts & Research Centre, Mysuru, who presided, remarked that when art and research come together, they contribute significantly to building refined cultural values in society.
M.K. Balaraju, President of SNPAC, shared insights about the institution’s objectives and cultural initiatives, reaffirming its commitment to promoting artistic activities in the city of Mysuru.
The first day of Manjira Mahotsava-2026 began with a captivating dance performance by Vidwan Dr. T.S. Sagar (Tumakuru). His graceful presentation, marked by perfect coordination of rhythm, tempo and expression, mesmerised the audience.
This was followed by a Bharatanatyam recital by Kalamandalam Suchithra Anil (Mysuru), whose delicate expressions, purity of technique and classical elegance won the hearts of the audience.
The first day itself set a very high standard for the festival.
On the second day, Vid. Sujay Shanbhag (Hubballi) presented a group dance performance along with his disciples. The disciplined movements, synchronisation and expressive presentation received wide appreciation from the audience.
Later in the evening, Vidu. Kavya Kasinathan (Bengaluru) delivered a beautiful solo Bharatanatyam recital. Her storytelling through dance, subtle abhinaya and technical precision deeply impressed the connoisseurs.
The final day of Manjira Mahotsava, on Feb. 4, was a special highlight. The programme began with a group presentation by Svarita Ensemble — Nikhitha Manjunath, V.K.S. Madhumitha and Viyaneeta Ramesh (disciples of Dr. Satyanarayana Raju, Bengaluru). Their synchronised movements and creative choreography captivated the audience.
The festival concluded with an outstanding Bharatanatyam performance by Vidu. K.N. Navyashree (Bengaluru). Her pure dance technique, expressive abhinaya and confident stage presence earned thunderous applause from the audience.
The three-day Manjira Mahotsava-2026 once again showcased the grandeur of Indian classical dance traditions to the art lovers of Mysuru. The festival was not merely a series of dance performances but also a cultural platform that emphasised the importance of the Guru-Shishya parampara.
The festival was meticulously organised under the guidance of Guru Vidu. Nagashree Phaneendra Kumar, along with the dedicated team of SNPAC. The support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, further enhanced the dignity and success of the event.
This post was published on February 22, 2026 6:32 pm