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From Odissi to Kathak : India’s Cultural Power to Shine Before Global Leaders
New Delhi : Get ready for a spectacular cultural showcase as India prepares to mesmerise some of the world’s most powerful leaders with the timeless beauty of its classical arts! As the BRICS Summit 2026 gets underway at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Indian culture is set to take centre stage during a special dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in honour of visiting heads of state and government.
The highlight of the evening will be a grand BRICS cultural programme, featuring nearly 160 artists from India and other BRICS member countries, with Indian performers playing a leading role. Representing the rich cultural diversity of the country, artists will showcase four celebrated classical dance traditions Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi and Kathak offering global leaders a glimpse into India’s extraordinary artistic heritage.
The performance will be complemented by the soulful sounds of traditional Indian musical instruments and captivating vocal presentations, creating a vibrant cultural experience expected to last around 20 to 25 minutes.
Indian artists have reportedly been rehearsing continuously in preparation for the prestigious event, which is being coordinated by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) under the Ministry of External Affairs. With the BRICS Summit marking two decades of the grouping, the cultural evening is set to become more than just an entertainment programme it will serve as a powerful showcase of India’s civilisational heritage, artistic diversity and cultural diplomacy before an international audience.
With global leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin expected to participate in the summit, Bharat Mandapam has been given a grand makeover to welcome the distinguished guests. From the intricate movements of Odissi to the expressive elegance of Kathak and the rhythmic brilliance of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, India is preparing to tell its cultural story on one of the world’s biggest diplomatic stages.
