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The Mudra Dance Festival, held annually at NCPA around World Dance Day, is a thematic celebration of Indian classical dance. While recent editions explored Aharya—the visual aspects of costume and presentation—the 2026 edition focuses on children learning and practicing classical dance in Mumbai.

The Mudra Dance Festival, held annually at NCPA around World Dance Day, is a thematic celebration of Indian classical dance. While recent editions explored Aharya—the visual aspects of costume and presentation—the 2026 edition focuses on children learning and practicing classical dance in Mumbai.

This year, Mudra is presented as a children’s classical dance festival, showcasing young talent from across the city. A key highlight is the Mudra Interschool Dance Competition, aimed at encouraging schools and families to support classical arts amid academic and digital pressures.

Head of Dance Department, NCPA, Dr. Swapnokalpa Dasgupta said, "Over the years, Mudra has engaged with a range of thematic explorations, often focusing on aspects of presentation, interpretation, and evolving standards within dance. This year, however, there was a conscious shift towards looking at where this journey truly begins—at the stage of early learning. The intention is not only to create a platform for young learners but also to open up a space for a more reciprocal process of engagement."

The festival features performances by students from leading dance schools, including presentations of regional styles such as Manipuri and Kuchipudi, furthering NCPA’s commitment to nurturing young artists.