Odissi Dance Performance in Nicosia Showcases India’s Timeless Cultural Heritage

Date: 2 July 2025
Venue: Pallas Theatre, Nicosia, Republic of Cyprus

As part of its ongoing cultural outreach and in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the High Commission of India, Nicosia, hosted a mesmerising Odissi classical dance performance on 2 July 2025 at the prestigious Pallas Theatre in the capital city of Nicosia.

The event was graced by Ms. Irene Piki, Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, who attended as the Chief Guest. The evening witnessed the presence of over 170 guests, including senior government officials, diplomats, cultural scholars, students, and members of both the Indian and Cypriot communities.

In his opening remarks, High Commissioner Mr. Manish reflected on the enduring cultural ties between India and Cyprus, emphasizing that such cultural engagements contribute to mutual understanding, respect, and shared heritage.

The performance featured five refined Odissi dance pieces presented by internationally acclaimed artist Smt. Sujata Mohapatra, recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and her distinguished troupe from Srjan – Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Nrityabasa. Each piece was a masterful blend of mythology, devotion, and grace, offering the audience a deeply spiritual and aesthetic experience of India’s classical dance tradition.

Interactive Session and Community Participation

A key highlight of the evening was a special interactive segment, where young members of the audience—particularly from the Cypriot Indian diaspora—were invited on stage to learn basic Odissi movements from the performers. This symbolic and joyous exchange was warmly received and underscored the evening’s spirit of cultural unity and inclusiveness.

The performers were felicitated with commemorative gifts by the High Commissioner, in recognition of their artistic excellence and their role in deepening India’s cultural presence abroad. The event concluded with a vibrant atmosphere of admiration and engagement, as the audience enthusiastically interacted with the artists through photographs, personal appreciation, and heartfelt applause.

This cultural evening served as a fitting conclusion to the two-day Odissi performance series in Cyprus and reinforced the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening India’s bilateral ties with Cyprus. The High Commission expresses its sincere appreciation to ICCR, Pallas Theatre, and all attendees for making the event a resounding success.

For more info and Photos: https://www.facebook.com/IndiainCyprus/posts/pfbid0FwXHnpw2FkK4cx8jp5KRBLi9uVHUypuPMbJaBb22bE7f56gsiu49neGyChsKm4dml