The Pratibha Kala Kendra folk dance troupe from India will be giving vibrant and exciting performances across the country from 26-31 March at the invitation of the Embassy of India in Vietnam and authorities in Hanoi, Ha Nam, Lao Cai, Thai Nguyen and Yen Bai.

The troupe, led by acclaimed choreographer and artistic director Pratibha Sharma, features some of India's most talented dancers, musicians and costume designers.

Pratibha Sharma and Pratibha Kala Kendra Folk Dance Troupe. Photo courtesy of Indian Embassy

Known for its dynamic renditions of traditional Indian folkdance, Pratibha Kala Kendra is set to enchant audiences across Vietnam. Their performances will showcase a kaleidoscope of Indian culture, featuring a diverse range of folk dances from different regions of the country, most notably from the Braj region.

Their tour aims not only to showcase the rich heritage of Indian folk dance, but also to promote cultural understanding and strengthen the bond between India and Vietnam.

"We are delighted to bring the rich tapestry of Indian folk dances to the people of Vietnam," said Pratibha Sharma.

"Besides entertaining, we want to share India's cultural heritage and traditions with our Vietnamese friends," she said.

As well as the exciting performances, the tour will feature an interactive workshop, giving audiences the opportunity to learn about the history, techniques and significance of Indian folk dance directly from the artists themselves.

The Vietnam tour will begin with an opening performance at the National University of Arts Education in Hanoi on March 26, followed by a workshop at the Vietnam Academy of Dance in Hanoi on March 27. They will perform at Hanoi University of Science and Technology on March 27, Tam Chuc Pagoda Complex in the northern province of Ha Nam on March 28, and Thai Nguyen University and Vietnam-India Secondary School in the northern province of Thai Nguyen on March 29. They will move to the northern provinces of Lao Cai and Yen Bai on March 30 and 31, respectively. The dance group, which specializes in northern music and dance, has 14 dancers and singers and is under the direction of Pratibha Sharmasic.

Pratibha grew up in the state of Uttar Pradesh and was attracted to the folk dances of the Braj region at an early age.

She is a renowned choreographer of Charkula dance and the folk dances of the Braj region.

The Pratibha Kala Kendra Academy aims to preserve and promote the folk dances of the Braj region and to improve the lives of the performing artists there.

It has helped over 500 families of performing artists by providing training and performance opportunities.