Nita Ambani to Showcase Indian Culture at Lincoln Center in New York

A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Cultural Icon

Nita Ambani's remarkable journey began as a young Bharatnatyam dancer, performing her arangetram in a temple due to the absence of theater access. Fast forward to today, she stands as the chairperson of the Reliance Foundation and the spouse of Mukesh Ambani, Asia's wealthiest individual. In 2023, she fulfilled her dream of establishing a premier cultural venue with the inauguration of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai. The launch event was a glamorous occasion, often referred to as 'India's Met Gala,' featuring stars like Zendaya, Shah Rukh Khan, Gigi Hadid, and Priyanka Chopra, all celebrating Indian artistry.

NMACC: A Cultural Hub Inspired by Global Icons

Ambani drew inspiration from renowned venues such as Lincoln Center and the Sydney Opera House to create a cultural center that pays tribute to India's rich heritage, encompassing dance, music, folklore, and handicrafts. After a decade of planning, the NMACC has hosted a variety of performances, including Broadway hits like Mamma Mia! and The Phantom of the Opera, alongside traditional kathak performances and exhibitions featuring artists like Yayoi Kusama and Andy Warhol.

Bringing Indian Culture to New York

Looking to expand her vision internationally, Ambani is set to host the NMACC Weekend at New York's Lincoln Center from September 12 to 14. This event aims to immerse Manhattan in Indian culture through three days filled with dance, music, fashion, and more.

An Exclusive Gala and Cultural Bazaar

The festivities will kick off with Grand Swagat, an exclusive gala featuring a fashion show for Ambani's Swadesh handloom brand, curated by the esteemed designer Manish Malhotra. Renowned chef Vikas Khanna, famous for his East Village restaurant Bungalow, will present a specially designed menu showcasing diverse Indian flavors. Khanna humorously noted the extensive research he conducted for the event, joking that it could earn him another PhD.

A Weekend of Entertainment and Engagement

The weekend's events will feature performances by Bollywood stars Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal, a classical music showcase by Rishab Sharma, and multiple presentations of The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation, a grand theatrical piece that chronicles 7,000 years of Indian history with over 100 performers, originally directed by Feroz Abbas Khan for the NMACC's Mumbai opening.

Cultural Accessibility and Community Engagement

To promote accessibility, Damrosch Park at Lincoln Square will be transformed into a cultural marketplace open to the public. This space will host daily yoga sessions led by wellness expert Eddie Stern, Bollywood dance workshops by choreographer Shiamak Davar, a cricket panel discussion, and a Swadesh pop-up shop featuring Indian handicrafts and fashion. Artisans from India will be present to demonstrate their crafts live.

A Vision for Inclusive Culture

Ambani emphasized the significance of making culture accessible to all, stating, 'How do you democratize and bring it to people and let everybody enjoy it?' She believes that culture fosters unity, empathy, and respect for diversity, which is crucial in today's world.

A Personal Touch to the Celebration

As excitement builds for the event, Ambani shared a personal highlight: 'I’m going to dance on the first night.' Her journey from temple performances to the Lincoln Center stage symbolizes the growing global influence of Indian arts. Tickets for the NMACC Weekend in New York City will be available for purchase at the end of June.