This September, New York City will experience a spectacular cultural immersion as the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) brings the vibrant spirit of India to one of the world’s most prestigious arts venues. From September 12 to 14, the Lincoln Center will host the NMACC Weekend, a three-day celebration dedicated to India’s diverse and rich cultural heritage.
A vision rooted in tradition and global aspiration
The brainchild of Nita Ambani, philanthropist and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, NMACC was inaugurated in Mumbai in 2023 with much fanfare, becoming a landmark venue for India’s performing and visual arts. Drawing inspiration from her early days as a classical dancer trained in Bharatnatyam, Ambani’s commitment to cultural preservation has evolved into a mission to bring Indian artistry onto the global stage.
Her first public dance performance was at a temple, a humble beginning shaped by financial constraints but rich in cultural intent. “I always dreamt of creating a space where Indian culture could shine as brightly as it does in our hearts,” Nita Ambani told Vanity Fair. “If cities like New York and Sydney can have iconic spaces like Lincoln Center and the Opera House, why not India?”
Highlights to watch
Though the full itinerary is yet to be revealed, several key events are already making headlines
The Grand Swagat will launch the weekend festivities with a warm, celebratory welcome at Damrosch Park, blending traditional Indian hospitality with music and dance.
A Bollywood dance workshop led by famed choreographer Shiamak Davar promises to get attendees moving to India’s most infectious rhythms.
Daily yoga sessions with wellness expert Eddie Stern will offer moments of calm amid the cultural bustle.
A special panel on cricket-India’s most beloved sport-will explore its cultural significance and global influence.
Musical majesty
The Lincoln Center will echo with the powerful voices of Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal, two of India’s most celebrated playback singers. They will be joined by Rishab Sharma, a virtuoso of Indian classical music, ensuring the event is as melodious as it is meaningful.
A major highlight will be the stage production of “The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation”, a visually rich and narratively powerful performance tracing India’s cultural evolution.
Celebrating craftsmanship and couture
The event will also shine a spotlight on Indian craftsmanship through Swadesh, NMACC’s handloom initiative. Swadesh will be presented at an invite-only gala evening, where renowned designer Manish Malhotra will unveil a fashion collection celebrating India’s textile heritage. Acclaimed chef Vikas Khanna will curate an exclusive Indian menu for the occasion, blending culinary artistry with tradition.
Khanna remarked, “It’s a privilege to be part of this movement that showcases the depth and beauty of Indian culture on a global platform.”
In a deeply personal gesture, Nita Ambani herself will perform on opening night, drawing a poetic link between her first performance in a modest temple and this grand stage in New York City. It’s a full-circle moment that echoes her lifelong passion for the arts and her drive to elevate Indian culture internationally.
