UTSAV 2026 Brings Indian Classical Dance and Music to Wales

Samarpan’s UTSAV returns to Cardiff in September 2026 with a program of South Asian classical dance and music, led by Bharatanatyam artist Priyadarsini Govind and Carnatic vocalist Chaitrra Sairam.

The announcement follows Samarpan’s sold-out Double Bill in Cardiff, which featured Welsh Bharatanatyam dancers Ann Sunny and Nithya Menon alongside the Samarpan Ensemble. The organization focuses on opportunities for emerging Indian classical dancers and access to South Asian arts for local audiences.

Supported by Arts Council Wales, UTSAV—the International Indian Performing Arts Festival in Wales—will take place at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama on September 13. The festival centers on Indian classical performance and cultural exchange in South Wales.

This year’s dance program features Priyadarsini Govind, an internationally recognized Bharatanatyam performer and educator from India. Her practice combines established Bharatanatyam traditions with contemporary approaches to performance and teaching.

UTSAV 2026 will also introduce Indian classical music to its main festival program through Chennai-based Carnatic vocalist Chaitrra Sairam. A recipient of the Yuva Kala Bharathi Award, Sairam works as both a soloist and educator, with interests that include music therapy and programs for children with special educational needs.

Samarpan established UTSAV in response to limited regular programming for classical Indian arts in Wales. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word for “celebration.” The festival seeks to sustain Indian classical traditions while making them accessible to contemporary audiences in South Wales, home to long-established South Asian communities.

Samarpan also launched its Baithak series in August 2026. The intimate concert program featured Ghazal, Khayal, and Hindustani vocal music. “Baithak,” a term used in Hindi, Urdu, and other Indic languages, can refer to a gathering or informal musical session in which performers and listeners share a close setting.

UTSAV 2026

Sunday, 13th September, 3pm-6.30pm

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, CF10 3ER

Tickets Here