From India to Perak: Atulya Bharat Brings the Rhythm of Unity
IPOH: The Greentown Indian Cultural Society (GICS) wowed 750 attendees with Atulya Bharat, a dazzling celebration of traditional and contemporary Indian dance and martial arts all the way from New Delhi, India.
Held at the Banquet Hall, SUK Negeri Perak in conjunction with India’s Republic Day, the event was a vibrant fusion of culture, tradition, and cross-cultural appreciation right here in Malaysia.
The night was nothing short of grand, with Raja Dihilir Perak, Duli Yang Amat Mulia Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain ibni Almarhum Sultan Idris A’fifullah Shah gracing the occasion alongside dignitaries such as India’s Deputy High Commissioner, Ms. Subhashini Narayanan, and Sri Lanka’s Acting High Commissioner, Mr. M.I. Mohamed Rizvi.
With Malay and Chinese attendees also present, the event truly embodied the spirit of cultural unity.
Sponsored by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), this was GICS’s 73rd successful cultural program and its first of 2025, staying true to its mission of offering free access to the arts for all in Perak.
The highlight of the evening was a performance by Tapasya Foundation Society, one of India’s leading contemporary dance troupes.
Under the choreography of Ajay Bhatt, a renowned dancer from New Delhi, the troupe brought together a stunning mix of yoga, Kathak, and martial arts, captivating the audience with their precision, grace, and energy.
The 45-minute opening act left everyone on the edge of their seats, as the dancers twirled and moved with fluidity and strength, incorporating elements of the mesmerizing ghumar, a traditional Rajasthani twirling dance.
This was followed by “Vande Mataram,” a 15-minute patriotic tribute to India’s national pride, which saw a special collaboration with Kumpulan Selendang Perak, a local Malaysian dance group.
Earlier in the day, Ajay Bhatt and his team held a lecture-demonstration, giving Malaysian dancers a unique chance to learn from the talented Indian troupe and deepen cultural ties between the two nations.
The evening concluded with Tuanku Raja Dihilir Perak meeting the performers and GICS President Mr. Subain Singam, recognizing their dedication to the arts and cultural enrichment in Perak.
With its seamless blend of tradition and modernity, Atulya Bharat was more than just a performance—it was a celebration of heritage, artistic excellence, and unity in diversity, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
