COME CELEBRATE
INDIAN DANCE WITH US.
IN THE HEART OF EUROPE.
May 1 - 3 2026 | Ghent, Belgium
The Gent India Dans Festival (GIDF) is Ghent city’s annual celebration of Indian dance, bringing together the colors, rhythms, and stories of India’s rich dance culture.
From traditional folk dances to contemporary creations, from powerful rhythms to graceful expressions, GIDF showcases the diversity and energy of Indian dance through inspiring performances, dynamic workshops, an opening party with a live band and an engaging community atmosphere.
Curated by Swapnil Dagliya and organized by ABC a Bollywood Company at Shoonya Dance Centre, the festival creates a welcoming space for dancers, enthusiasts, and cultural lovers to connect, learn, and celebrate. Whether you’re a passionate dancer or simply curious about Indian dance, GIDF offers a vibrant cultural experience in the heart of Ghent.
Festival Program
Here, tradition meets transformation. Whatever your movement background, we invite you to explore the depth of Indian dance with confidence and soul. Driven by heritage and built for the modern stage, this is where rhythmic power meets artistic expression. Let’s celebrate the pulse of India together.
FRIDAY 1 MAY 2026
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Check in, grab your wristband, and soak in the pre-festival vibes as we get ready to kick things off!
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To embody a folk dance is to imbibe a feeling, a view of life, a sense of humor - the abstract qualities of a culture. This workshop will be an exploration of Rajasthani dance techniques from various communities finding their common ground, and the self expression that expands out from this center. Reaching beyond mere imitation, students will learn choreographic tools to empower their creative range and self expression. Discover an approach that remains true to Rajasthani roots while building choreography in the lived present.
*Not included in any pass. Book separately. -
A pause to slow down and sip chai while sharing reflections and exchanging thoughts with fellow dancers and teachers—a relaxed moment of connection before returning to the studio.
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Experience the infectious energy of Mumbai! Join the renowned Vaishali Sagar to learn a powerful, folk-inspired Bollywood routine that blends cinematic flair with authentic traditional groundedness.
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Dive into the circular rhythm of Gujarat. This high-energy session focuses on the grace and stamina of Garba, teaching you a dynamic choreography that celebrates community, spirit, and footwork.
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A quick-fire deep dive into the "Black Snake" aesthetic. Learn the art of draping, the significance of the embroidery, and how to style your jewels and dupatta for the authentic Kalbeliya look.
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Kick off the opening party with the soul of the desert. Swapnil leads this inclusive, high-vibration community class where we’ll learn the fundamental swirls and spirit of the Kalbeliya nomadic tribes.
BYO skirt, fabric or dupatta -
The festival officially opens with the hypnotic sounds of Dariya. Let the live instruments take you on a journey from the dunes of Rajasthan to the heart of Gent.
*Included in Full Festival Pass. Get your passes here. -
Keep the energy soaring as DJ Swapnil spins a mix of Bollywood bangers, Desi beats, and global folk fusion to keep us dancing into the night.
SATURDAY 2 MAY 2026
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Coffee in hand, spirits up—ready yourself for a full day of movement.
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A soulful morning invocation. Wake up the body and ground the mind through Riyaaz (practice), focusing on breath, posture, and rhythmic intent to prepare for the day ahead.
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Experience the raw, unapologetic energy of Kuthu, the vibrant folk-street dance of Tamil Nadu. Known for its explosive power and earthy footwork, this workshop breaks down the "rowdy" style and translates it into a high-octane Desihopchoreography. Expect sweat, loud beats, and pure, unrefined joy.
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Step into the world of one of India’s most striking martial art-dance forms. Originating from Odisha, Mayurbhanj Chhau is known for its stylized animal movements, sweeping leg extensions, and powerful jumps. Shampa will guide you through the fundamental Uli-Chali (basic steps) and the controlled strength required to master this mask-less, heroic dance style.
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Nourishing soups and sandwiches will be available for purchase at the venue so you can stay close to the action. All food served will be vegetarian, with plenty of vegan options available to keep you energized for the afternoon.
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Manasi brings the golden fields of Punjab to Gent! Dive into the grace, playful storytelling, and rhythmic boliyan(couplets) of this traditional women’s folk dance. This empowering session celebrates sisterhood and the vibrant, clapping rhythms that define the spirit of North India.
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A quick afternoon breather. Grab a cup and share your morning breakthroughs with the community.
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Indian dances stand out as highly expressive storytelling languages, so what are the traditional ways of developing the eyes and expression? From an Odissi classical dance perspective, students will learn conceptual methods of acting based on the text Natya Shastra, as well as physical exercises and training practices that target facial responsiveness and movement dynamics of the storytelling body. Students can expect some discussion on theory, seated practice toning the finer muscles of facial expression, as well as the study of Odissi dance phrases that demonstrate the tools of abhinaya.
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The pinnacle of the festival. A curated evening of spectacular performances featuring our world-class faculty and guest artists, showcasing the diversity and depth of Indian dance.
Not included in any pass. Get your showcase tickets here.
SUNDAY 3 MAY 2026
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One final morning to gather and soak in the GIDF energy.
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A gentle morning session to awaken your body, tune your mind, and set the rhythm for the day ahead. This is more than a warm-up; it is a ritual of arrival. We align our energy through rhythmic grounding and fluid stretching, honoring the dance within.
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Stylistically speaking, Indian Fusion movement vocabulary is inspired by cultural dances of India and the Middle East (including its modern evolutions). This dance bridges modern and folkloric Bellydance/Raqs Sharqi vocabulary with extensive postures and spins of North Indian classical and folk dance, intricacies of eyes, hands and facial expression from Eastern Indian classical dance and draws in elements of Central Asian dances as well. Woven seamlessly together, Indian Fusion Dance is both Ancient & Modern – expressing timeless qualities. In this course dancers get a taste of Colleena’s unique fusion style through technique drills and compositions.
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Experience the high-vibration synergy where the rhythms of Africa meet the flavor of India. This workshop explores the "Desi Afro" style—fusing the grounded, polyrhythmic nature of Afrobeat with the infectious energy of Indian street dance. Focus on body isolations, heavy bass-lines, and a whole lot of soul.
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Dive into the theatrical and feminine power of Lavani. Known for its rapid footwork and cheeky storytelling, this workshop focuses on the traditional "Dholki" rhythm. Swapnil will guide you through the sharp movements and the playful Adaa (expressions) that define this vibrant Maharashtrian folk form.
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The final tea break! A moment to gather your thoughts and share your favorite festival memories before the closing session.
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Step over the bamboo with precision and grace! Explore Cheraw, the famous bamboo dance of Mizoram. This workshop is a masterclass in timing and coordination, where dancers navigate the rhythmic clanging of bamboo poles. Vaishali will teach you the intricate patterns and the soaring energy of this unique North-Eastern Indian treasure.
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Stretch, cool down, and settle into the festival’s final circle. Reflect on your experiences, share stories, say your goodbyes, and connect with teachers & fellow dancers through a relaxed Q&A. Take a piece of the festival home with you.
PASSES & PRICES
Don’t have a Shoonya ID yet?
Create one here (this is a one-time step).
Once done, you can continue with your festival registration smoothly.
All Shoonya members get a discounted price on all single workshops and passes.
GROUP DISCOUNTS
Coming with a group of 5 or more? Register your group for the Full Festival Pass at the Early Bird price (180€) and get one pass free for the choreographer/leader.To avail of this offer, please fill out the form below. Registration and Entry Guidelines
Secure Your Spot:
Register in advance to secure your spot, as registrations close once maximum capacity is reached.
Confirmation of your spot requires completing registration and payment.Workshop Accessibility:
All workshops welcome dancers of all levels, ages 12 and above, aiming to introduce new dance styles and Indian culture understanding.Performance Opportunity:
Registered full-festival or day-pass participants may perform at the opening party: solos up to 2 minutes, groups up to 3 minutes.Dress Code:
Indian dance wear, including skirts for certain workshops, is encouraged but not mandatory.
Some workshops may require long flowy skirts, a few of which will be provided on a first come first serve basis. Consider bringing your own if possible.Footwear and Etiquette:
Dance floors at Shoonya Dance Centre are shoe-free zones. Please dance barefoot, though socks are optional.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed, except for water bottles.Food Options:
Snacks will be available for purchase during the Opening Party on Friday.
Soup and sandwiches will be offered for purchase during lunch hours on both Saturday and Sunday.
Refund Policy
All registrations are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Tickets for showcases, workshops, and events are also non-transferable and non-refundable under any circumstances.
Entry fees exclude food and drinks, which must be purchased separately.
Missed sessions and force majeure events are non-refundable.
VENUE
Shoonya Dance Centre, Stapelplein 41, 9000 Gent - Belgium
Shoonya Dance Centre, our creative home in the heart of Ghent, serves as the central hub for the Gent India Dance Festival. From immersive workshops and technical labs to our captivating showcase and vibrant opening party, every moment of the festival unfolds under one roof. Join us at Shoonya to experience the energy, artistry, and community of GIDF in the space where it all happens.