A time to celebrate Russian rhythm in Tamil Nadu Russian Dance Festival 2026!
The Russian Dance Festival 2026, jointly organised by IRCCET and the Russian Centre of Science and Culture (Russian House) under the auspices of the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Chennai, is set to present a spectacular celebration of Indo-Russian cultural friendship.
The festival will feature a 17-member ensemble of accomplished performers from the historic city of Rostov-on-Don, highlighting the richness and diversity of Russian dance traditions. The festival underscores the enduring diplomatic and cultural partnership between India and the Russian Federation.
The Tamil Nadu cultural tour will take place from 22nd January to 9th February 2026, with performances scheduled across Chennai, Coimbatore, Mettupalayam, Vellore, and Sivakasi. The tour seeks to strengthen people-to-people connections, promote cross-cultural understanding, and actively engage Indian youth through artistic collaboration. Performances will be hosted at Educational Institutions, Exclusive Clubs, Organisations, and Corporate Entities.
Inauguration Ceremony:
Date: 22 January 2026
Time: 6:30 PM
Venue: Russian Centre of Science and Culture, Chennai
The festival will be inaugurated by His Excellency Mr. Valerii Khodzhaev, Consul General of the Russian Federation in Chennai, in the esteemed presence of Mr. Alexander Dodonov, Vice-Consul & Director, Russian House – Chennai (Cultural Department), and Dr. C. K. Ashok Kumar, President, IRCCET.
A dedicated group of amateur artists from Rostov-on-Don has been introducing Indian audiences to the richness of Russian folklore and dance traditions. The performance programme presents a diverse repertoire, ranging from elegant classical waltzes set to the music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky to high-energy contemporary choreography incorporating elements of gymnastics.
Audiences will experience vibrant performances of traditional dances such as Barynya, Kalinka, and the Quadrille, alongside the fiery Lezginka of the Caucasus peoples and colourful Gypsy dances. Each presentation reflects the cultural diversity, expressive power, and dynamic spirit of Russian dance traditions.
The core objective of the troupe’s performances in India is to strengthen the friendship between India and Russia through dance—a powerful medium that conveys emotion, rhythm, and shared cultural values. The artists fondly recall that their interactions with the warm and welcoming people of India leave a lasting and heartfelt impression.
This year’s festival brings together artists from three renowned dance groups from Rostov-on-Don—Orchid, Lazorik, and Azhiotazh. Audiences can look forward to a rich and engaging programme featuring classical, folk, and contemporary dances, complemented by traditional folk songs of the Don Cossacks.
Beyond artistic performances, the Russian Dance Festival 2026 serves as a dynamic platform encouraging Indian youth to explore the grandeur of Russian culture. It stands as a celebration of art, music, friendship, and cultural exchange, reinforcing the long-standing and evolving friendship between the Republic of India and the Russian Federation.