DELHI’S FIRST DINNERTHEATRE EXPERIENCE

A walk through history complete with song, dance, and music— the makings of memorable outing in the Capital

Delhi's first dinner theatre, Ghungroo, a unique, immersive dance musical that showcases the story of Delhi— a seat of power that impacted the cultural scape of India, through centuries. The event was held at Parsi Anjuman hall, Delhi. Using Martial, semi- classical and classical Indian dances as a medium of narration; immersive, digital story telling technique; starting with the first documented ruler of Delhi, Prithwi Raj Chauhan, tracing the journey of Bhakti Movement through Sufism, followed by stylised form of Kathak for the Mughal Courts and lastly ending in Bollywood; it highlights the history and spirit of Delhi, all in an hour.

“Traveling across the world, one finds so many options of local entertainment, but I often felt there was a gap here, in that space, in our country, especially when we have so many stories to tell. So we invented a format that combines modern, digital technology, with our classical and traditional music and dance forms while keeping their form authentic and essence intact, to deliver something which is beyond the ordinary and that which inspires our audiences. That’s why Ghungroo – The Sounds of Yore ( with Concept Dinner at Angare – Straight from fire), conceivably country’s first, every day, Dinner Theatre, in the heart of Delhi, created and run by our team at Rudra Experiences, is based on a self- funded, self- sustaining model, with ticket prices that give value, an experience that’s unique and makes its audience want to come back for more,” says Maharaj Wahi, Chairman, of Rudra Experiences and Past President, IATO ( Indian Association of Tour Operators).

“The response we receive from guests from all over the world, be it UK, Australia, Europe or Americas, as well as our own local Delhiites has been nothing short of overwhelming. For foreigners its an interesting peek into our lifestyle, our culture, our world and for locals, it’s that rare evening when we connect with our roots and take pride in what we are. The show is followed by authentic Indian Barbecue dinner at Angare, that presents Indian gastronomy in its purest form. Traditional recipes, purity of ingredients, slow cooking process, fresh ground spices that delicately flavour, subtle aromas are served the way it was meant to be: Straight from fire. We are particularly enthusiastic about reviving some of our old recipes like Kali Gaajar / Safed Gaajar Halwa, that are rare and unique ” says Ekta Kapur, CoFounderof the organisation.

“With a steady income every month, the show has given us an opportunity to continue to pursue our dance forms with dedication and not give it up for more lucrative career options. It’s doing a lot of good for the performing arts and dances that often don’t get their due, due to lack of carrier opportunities”, says one of the artists, who, like all other artists, has been part of the show since it started in November 2016.

“In the current times of a fast paced, digital world, where every possible entertainment is available on a click of your smartphone, we are zealous in our efforts to rekindle the long lost love for a slow life, our culture and our roots, that make us who we are” says Kapur.