South African Bharatanatyam Dancers Selected for Prestigious Disney World Diwali Dance Fest 2025

Johannesburg’s Natya Anjali among only 25 worldwide chosen to showcase Indian classical dance excellence at Orlando’s premier cultural event

JOHANNESBURG, 11 Sept 2025 – Johannesburg-based Bharatanatyam dance school Natya Anjali has been selected as one of only 25 studios worldwide to perform at the prestigious Diwali Dance Fest at Walt Disney World, Orlando, USA from 9–12 October 2025.

This historic invitation puts South African Indian classical dancers on one of the world’s most iconic stages, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity and artistic excellence.

Global Recognition of Local Excellence

Founded in 1998 by Artistic Director Subashni Moonsamy-Naicker, Natya Anjali has spent 27 years nurturing Bharatanatyam on South African soil. The studio’s selection from thousands of applicants affirms South Africa’s role as a guardian of Indian classical arts.

“When I established Natya Anjali, I dreamed of creating a space where young South Africans could connect with their roots through Bharatanatyam,” says Moonsamy-Naicker. “To see our dancers chosen for Disney World validates not just our standards, but nearly three decades of cultural preservation.”

Why This Matters

• Global Competition: Selected from thousands across six continents
• Cultural Diplomacy: Showcases South Africa’s Indian diaspora excellence
• Youth Empowerment: Young South Africans mastering ancient art forms

The Disney World Stage

The Diwali Dance Fest brings together the world’s finest Indian classical performers, blending tradition with global celebration. Natya Anjali’s dancers will perform, attend workshops, and engage in cultural exchanges with international peers.

Funding the Journey

To make this dream a reality, the dancers must cover costs of approximately R37,000 per participant (visas, flights, accommodation, and costumes). Natya Anjali is seeking sponsorship and community support to ensure South Africa is represented on this global stage.

Sponsorship Benefits

Supporters will:

• Associate with internationally recognized cultural excellence
• Contribute to youth development and cultural preservation
• Gain promotional visibility across media and events

What This Achievement Means for South Africa

Natya Anjali’s selection highlights South Africa as a cultural hub where traditional arts thrive and achieve international recognition. It celebrates diaspora heritage, inspires the next generation of dancers, and positions the country as a destination for serious Indian classical arts education.

Media & Sponsorship Contact

Subashni Moonsamy-Naicker – Artistic Director - WhatsApp/Call: 083 593 0301 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Issued by JT Communication Solutions on behalf of Natya Anjali

About Natya Anjali: Established in 1998, Natya Anjali is a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC 2025/225319/08) dedicated to preserving and promoting Bharatanatyam classical dance in South Africa. Under the artistic direction of Subashni Moonsamy-Naicker, the studio has trained hundreds of students while maintaining the authentic traditions of this ancient art form.

About Bharatanatyam: One of eight Indian classical dance forms, Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu's ancient temples and represents a complete artistic expression combining dance, music, theatre, and spiritual practice. The art form has been preserved and celebrated globally, with South Africa hosting one of the world's most vibrant Bharatanatyam communities.

EDITOR'S NOTES:

• This marks the first time a South African dance studio has been selected for Disney World's Diwali Dance Fest
• Natya Anjali represents the growing international recognition of South African Indian classical arts
• The selection demonstrates successful cultural preservation within diaspora communities
• Disney World's Diwali Dance Fest is considered one of the most prestigious platforms for Indian classical dance globally