Posted on 14 August 2025:
DANCE OF FREEDOM: UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN ILLUMINATE INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE SPIRIT AT GANDHI DARSHAN
Azadi Ke Mahanayak: A Stage for Freedom and Hope
On 12th August 2025, the Satyagraha Mandap at Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat, New Delhi, came alive with the soul of India’s 79th Independence Day.
In a stirring dance drama titled Azadi Ke Mahanayak, underprivileged children from Delhi paid tribute to India’s freedom fighters through a seamless blend of classical and contemporary movement.
Organized by Urvashi Dance Music Art & Cultural Society in collaboration with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and Tapasya Foundation, and supported by the Ministry of Culture, the event celebrated not only the legacy of independence but also the power of art to uplift, include and inspire.
Honouring Heroes: A Tribute Through Dance and Dignity
The evening unfolded with heartfelt reverence as Shri Kapil Mishra, Cabinet Minister, Government of Delhi, inaugurated the event, joined by Guest of Honour Shri Anil Sharma, MLA, and presided over by Shri Vijay Goel, Vice Chairman of Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti.
“Azadi Ke Mahanayak is more than a performance—it’s a living tribute to the courage and unity of our freedom fighters. Watching children from humble backgrounds express such passion reminds us that India’s true strength lies in honouring our past while nurturing the promise of tomorrow.” — Shri Kapil Mishra, Cabinet Minister, Government of Delhi
Their presence lent gravitas to a performance that celebrated the courage of Mangal Pandey, Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Subhash Chandra Bose, Chandra Shekhar Azad, and countless unsung heroes of India’s freedom movement. Choreographed by Ajay Bhatt with support from Abhishek, the dance drama wove together history and emotion, transforming the stage into a living canvas of sacrifice and inspiration.
Honouring the Roots of Freedom
As India moves forward with pride and progress, we must not forget the brave souls who made this journey possible. Azadi Ke Mahanayak is a heartfelt tribute to freedom fighters —heroes whose sacrifices planted the seeds of our nation’s growth.
Through powerful performances, the production invites us to feel their pain, honour their courage, and remember that our future stands tall on the strength of their legacy.
“This is more than a cultural event—it’s a gentle reminder that as India strides ahead, we must pause to honour those who paved the way. Their stories are not forgotten leaves, but living roots that still nourish our journey.” — Dr. Rekha Mehra, Founder and Director of Urvashi Dance Music Art & Cultural Society, New Delhi.
“For 38 years, Urvashi Dance Music Art & Cultural Society has shown how art can uplift, educate, and unite. ‘Azadi Ke Mahanayak’ was yet another shining example—where history came alive, hearts were stirred and the dream of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat found its voice on stage,”Internationally acclaimed Kathak maestro Dr. Rekha Mehra added.
Urvashi: Where Culture Meets Compassion
For over three decades, Urvashi Dance Music Art & Cultural Society has been a beacon of India’s intangible heritage—using the power of Kathak and performing arts to uplift lives, educate youth, and create social awareness.
Under the visionary leadership of Guru Rekha Mehra, the society has nurtured talent, empowered underprivileged girls, and addressed vital issues from women’s rights to wellness.
Through dance, dialogue, and dedication, Urvashi continues to build a more inclusive and culturally vibrant India.
