It is that time of the year when Delhi transforms into a cultural oasis as it hosts a huge congregation of artists from around the globe. Yes, you guessed it right. The Delhi International Arts Festival is back with its 12th edition. Over 1000 artists from 20 countries will be performing in 92 events. This 10-day extravaganza will be held at 20 venues across the city.
The DIAF 2018 began with a gala night on Saturday against the backdrop of the magnificent Purana Qila. India’s Akram Khan presented a spellbinding percussion ensemble. This was followed by an unforgettable presentation by South Korean artists. Named Echoes of North-South Korea, the traditional dance and music performance evoked the new innings between the two countries. Wearing interesting costumes, artists from China performed a unique opera with drums and dancers narrating folk tales rooted deep in Chinese history. There was also a traditional folk dance performance from Sri Lanka.
The events will be held across different venues. For instance, Alliance Francaise will be witnessing theatre performances by international artists. The India Habitat Centre will be screening movies and short films from India and the world.
For all things classical, you can head to Triveni Kala Sangam where you can watch Bharatnatyam performance by Ragini Chandrashekhar, and listen to Brazilian western classical music. A unique dance theatre production will be presented by French artists that will retell the Shakespearean story of King Lear in Kathakali style.
Seminars on tribal poetry, North-East Indian writings, and women’s writing will take place at the Sahitya Akademi. Selected schools under the DIAF Schools Initiative will be showcasing dance and live band performances.
The closing festivities will revolve around the theme of Kumbh Mela – the “largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on Earth”, as recognised by the UNESCO. From December 6th to 9th, you can attend sessions where historians and spiritual leaders of different faiths will be speaking on regional practices and spiritual perspectives associated with the Kumbh Mela. At the Crafts Museum, there will be regional dance performances, live demonstrations by craftspersons, and qawwali by the amazingly talented Nizami brothers.
This annual multi-arts multi-venue cultural fiesta is organized by Prasiddha Foundation and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). It takes its inspiration from the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and thus, brings to the platform different kinds of art forms from corners of not only the country, but the entire world. It believes that art is the perfect medium to unify people and nations.
Where: Across Delhi
When: 1st– 10th December, 2018
Entry: Free (Seating is on first come first serve basis)
Find the complete schedule here: https://www.diaf.in/welcome-to-diaf-2018.html
