Nativity Stories Told Through Bharatanatyam at Sadbhav Christmas in Goa

Goa, Dec 23, 2025: Presenting the Nativity narratives through movement, music and commentary, a classical Bharatanatyam production anchored the Sadbhav Christmas celebration in Goa on December 21 at Horta De Maria, Pilar Pilgrim Centre. Titled Cradle of Light, the performance reframed Gospel episodes linked to the birth of Jesus within a cultural and interfaith setting organised by the Society of Pilar.

Drawing from the Gospels according to Matthew and Luke, the presentation unfolded as a sequence of choreographed segments interpreting key moments associated with the Nativity.

Including several scenes from the Gospels, the presentation depicted the Massacre of the Innocents through Jatiswaram; monologues reflecting the responses of Joseph and Mary to Angel Gabriel’s message; and the Adoration of the Magi through Pushpanjali. The narrative arc also featured depictions of miracles attributed to Jesus during childhood and intimate moments between Mother Mary and the Child Jesus, before culminating in a Tillana symbolising hope and light, presented by the ensemble.

“Through our dance, we aimed to bring the Nativity story to life, showcasing not just the birth of Jesus but the essence of love and hope it represents,” said Impana Kulkarni, choreographer and director of the production.

Music director, composer, singer and actor Mukesh Ghatwal, associated with the film Claudia, attended as Chief Guest and, addressing the gathering through a musical presentation, said, “Music transcends barriers and speaks to our shared humanity. ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the whole world is one family—is a message we all need to embrace.”

Guests of honour Taha Haaziq, Secretary of the Goa State Commission for Disabilities, and Dr. Ida Mukherjee, a mental health professional, used their Christmas messages to stress the importance of fostering cordial relations among faith communities and to highlight the universal and inclusive character of Christmas celebrations.

Sadbhav Christmas, described as an interfaith gathering, brought together people of different faiths, using cultural forms such as dance and music to underline themes of unity, peace and communal harmony. The production featured a group of Bharatanatyam dancers, with narration by Swara Prabhudesai of the Vyomi Arts Centre.

By Fr. Elvis Fernandes SFX