New Delhi: The dance-theatre production Gīta Govinda – Where There is Rādhā, There is Hari, conceptualised and directed by Shivam Sahni, was presented on April 7th and 8th, 2026 at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, to an appreciative and engaged audience. The production was widely lauded for its rare, full-length chronological staging of the 12th-century Sanskrit masterpiece Gīta Govinda by Jayadeva.
Bringing alive the divine love of Radha and Krishna, the performance featured Shimran Zaman as Radha, Shivam Sahni as Krishna, and Kenisha Tandwalia as Sakhi. The portrayal of the three characters through individual performers added depth and nuance, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.
The production stood out for presenting a near-complete narrative arc—an uncommon approach in contemporary interpretations—seamlessly weaving 17 ashtapadis with original English dialogue. Audiences responded strongly to its ability to bridge classical tradition with a contemporary sensibility while preserving the spiritual and emotional essence of the text.
The music, composed by Shubha Mudgal, added richness and gravitas to the performance, complemented by music production and sound design by Sai Shravanam. The visual aesthetic—featuring costumes by Sandhya Raman and jewellery by Art Karat—further enhanced the immersive experience.
The production brought together a strong creative team, including Creative Partner Shimran Zaman and choreography by Nilava Sen, under the direction of Shivam Sahni.
The performances received a standing ovation on both evenings, with audiences praising the production for its emotional depth and immersive storytelling. Many viewers described the experience as “mesmerising,” “soul-stirring,” and “a rare blend of classical purity and contemporary expression.”
Several attendees appreciated the clarity brought in by the narrative structure and English dialogue, noting that it made the classical text more accessible without diluting its essence. The performances of the lead artists were particularly highlighted for their intensity and grace, with Radha’s portrayal evoking strong emotional resonance among viewers.
Art and culture enthusiasts in attendance commended the production for presenting Gīta Govinda in its near-complete form—an approach seldom witnessed on stage—making it a memorable and enriching experience.
With its successful staging in New Delhi, Gīta Govinda – Where There is Rādhā, There is Hari marks a significant step in reintroducing one of India’s most celebrated devotional works to modern audiences through a powerful and immersive theatrical experience.
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