Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) will host a mesmerising evening of Indian classical music and dance on Saturday, 6 September 2025, at 8.00pm. In collaboration with the renowned Temple of Fine Arts (TFA), the event promises a vibrant cultural showcase titled Classical Traditions: Ragas and Mudras.

Part of DFP’s ongoing initiative to celebrate and promote Malaysian arts and culture, the performance will feature soul-stirring Hindustani and Carnatic classical music, alongside four distinguished Indian classical dance forms: Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak and Kuchipudi. This immersive journey aims to transport audiences into the heart of Indian heritage through both sound and movement.

Celebrating Culture

The theme of the night, Ragas and Mudras, highlights key elements of Indian artistic tradition. “Ragas” refers to melodic frameworks used in classical music, while “Mudras” are symbolic gestures performed through the hands, body, and even eye movements — all integral to classical Indian dance.

Established in 1981, the Temple of Fine Arts has long championed Indian culture in Malaysia and beyond. Initially founded as a dance institution, TFA has since expanded its repertoire to include music and vocals. The organisation has staged over 20 major productions and 300 shorter works, often exploring cross-cultural themes. Its global reach includes performances in India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Australia, the UK and the USA.

TFA has also received national recognition, including invitations to perform at major events such as the 1998 APEC Summit and the Commonwealth Cultural Festival. It is a multiple recipient of the prestigious BOH Cameronian Arts Awards.

This upcoming performance at DFP not only celebrates the rich legacy of Indian classical arts but also underlines the shared commitment of both TFA and DFP to sustaining Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage. Audiences are in for an evening that promises to stir the soul through music, movement and meaning.