SBKK Stages 50th Edition of Krishna Dance Drama at Kamani Auditorium in Mandi House
Mandi House's Kamani auditorium is hosting the 50th edition of Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra’s (SBKK) renowned dance drama production "Krishna" from August 29 to September 4 to mark the Janmashtami festival.
For 50 years, multiple generations of Delhi residents have gathered at the auditorium during the festival period to watch the drama depicting Krishna's life. For many people across the city, attending the dance drama has become an integral ritual of the Janmashtami celebrations.
Conceptualised by the institute’s founder, Sumitra Charat Ram, in 1976, the two-hour and 20-minute production is showcased annually at Kamani auditorium. The narrative traces the life of Krishna, beginning with his childhood at Gokul and Vrindavan, depicting his bond with Radha, and culminating in his central role in the Mahabharata.
To mark the milestone 50th edition, the production has introduced significant stagecraft changes. The show will not use LED screens or digital backdrops this year, relying instead on handcrafted physical sets and live stage design to build scenic environments.
In a press release, SBKK stated that the dance narrative will be presented in its distinctive style through impressive in-house handcrafted costumes and jewellery, paired with special sets and lighting design. Nearly all characters are appearing in newly designed costumes for this edition.
Shobha Deepak Singh, chairperson of SBKK, highlighted the multi-generational connection audiences have developed with the production over half a century.
“Different generations of families have come to watch this programme. Grandparents come with their grandchildren, and parents tell us that they used to watch it when they were kids, and now bring their kids. Every year, we see this intense devotion being displayed; coming to watch our programme is a kind of pilgrimage for them,” Singh said.
Singh also noted that over 50 years, the production has allowed each generation to view the story through its own questions, expressing hope that younger viewers find reflections of their own lives in the narrative. As part of an outreach initiative, SBKK is coordinating with schools to bring students to morning performances.
The dance drama is being staged daily at 6:30 pm at Kamani auditorium, along with 3:00 pm matinee shows on August 30 and September 4. Tickets for the performances are available online.
