Dance doyen Sonal Mansingh to mark 50 years of CICD

Established in 1977 in New Delhi, CICD, also known as Shri Kamakhya Kalapeeth, was conceived as more than a training institute, positioning itself as a space of sadhana integrating dance with yoga, Sanskrit and music, the organisers said in a statement They added that the dance school has emerged over the years as a prominent cultural institution, nurturing generations of dancers and shaping a deeper engagement with Indian philosophy and performance traditions.

The Centre for Indian Classical Dances (CICD), founded by Bharatanatyam dancer Sonal Mansingh, will inaugurate its golden jubilee year on Thursday, marking five decades of contribution to India's cultural landscape through classical dance, pedagogy and cultural thought. Established in 1977 in New Delhi, CICD, also known as Shri Kamakhya Kalapeeth, was conceived as more than a training institute, positioning itself as a space of sadhana integrating dance with yoga, Sanskrit and music, the organisers said in a statement They added that the dance school has emerged over the years as ''a prominent cultural institution, nurturing generations of dancers and shaping a deeper engagement with Indian philosophy and performance traditions''. Speaking ahead of the Golden Jubilee inauguration, Mansingh said CICD was envisioned as ''a journey of life through art'' rooted in Indian ethos. ''CICD was conceived as a space for training in dance, allied arts and for a journey of life through art. It is inclusive and in harmony with changing times, yet deeply rooted in Bharatiya ethos. ''Over these 50 years, CICD has sought to nurture artists who are sensitive individuals, connected with traditions yet aware of the world they inhabit,'' the prominent Indian classical dancer said in a statement. The inauguration at CICD campus in Hauz Khas will be attended by several dignitaries from the fields of art, culture and public life. It will feature performances, dialogues and nationwide engagements focused on the relevance of classical dance in contemporary times.