Dum Dum Rhythmscape held its annual dance presentation, NIRVANA 2025, at Rabindra Sadan in Kolkata, under the direction of Smt. Anushree Banerjee.

The programme was graced by an esteemed panel of distinguished guests like Dr. Jonaki Mukherjee– Educator & Counselor, Ms. Somlata Acharya– Eminent Singer, Ms. Taniya Sanyal– India’s First Woman Firefighter, Mr. Rabindranath Roy, IAS– Managing Director, Tantujā, Mr. Kohinoor Sen Barat– Eminent Dancer & Choreographer, and Mr. Sujoy Thakur– Eminent Dancer.

Over 200 students from Dum Dum Rhythmscape shared the stage with kids from NGO Aashiyana at NIRVANA 2025, an evocative evening of rhythm, storytelling, and movement that reinforced the idea of inclusivity and unity through dance.

Naari, one of the evening’s standout performances, followed women’s remarkable journey from the terrible practice of sati daho to contemporary social problems, including sexual assault and violence related to dowries. The production, which was told through an engaging dance story, aimed to elicit contemplation, empathy, and deep dialogue. Throughout the evening, a number of more visually and emotionally captivating dance performances were presented.

Smt. Anushree Banerjee said, “Nirvana 2025 was very close to my heart. I wanted our kids to see beyond skill and comprehend the responsibility that comes with being an artist through this presentation. For us, dance was about sensitivity, inclusivity, and awareness in addition to performance. We aimed to share stories that struck a chord, sparked reflection, and served as a reminder of the ability of art to effect change by bringing together our students and the kids from Aashiyana”.’

Renowned singer Ms. Somlata Acharya said, “Dance has the power to speak where words often fall short. Nirvana 2025 served as a lovely reminder of the power of art to foster empathy, awareness, and long-lasting change”.

As a celebration of artistic brilliance, social consciousness, and the transformational potential of dance, NIRVANA 2025 reflected Dum Dum Rhythmscape’s ongoing dedication to developing talent while tackling pertinent societal issues.

Priyanka Dutta