Renowned Indian dancer Arunima Kumar to perform Kuchipudi for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee

London-based dancer-choreographer set to wow the crowds with the South Indian dance form, beloved for its vibrant style and unique storytelling features

An award-winning performer, Arunima and her troupe have danced for Indian PM Narendra Modi, and she’s been honoured for her efforts to popularise Indian culture

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Renowned Kuchipudi performer Arunima Kumar in action. Photo: Handout

Published: 5:00pm, 22 May 2022Updated: 6:41pm, 22 May 2022

When Arunima Kumar discovered she would be performing for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth at the monarch’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations this summer, the London-based dancer-choreographer said she was “absolutely elated”.

The 43-year-old New Delhi native, who is renowned for performing the classical Indian dance form of Kuchipudi, will take centre stage at Westminster Abbey with students from her Arunima Kumar Dance Company in June.

Her career has seen her dance at more than 2,500 events in over 50 countries, spanning venues including the Sydney Opera House and Tagore Centre in Berlin. In Britain, she and her troupe have performed for Prince Charles and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a number of occasions, at London’s Wembley Stadium and the Science Museum.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Britain’s Prince Charles with Arunima Kumar and other dancers at London’s Science Museum in 2018. Photo: AP

But this time will be different, she said – calling performing for the British monarch a “historic opportunity”.

“I’m confident it will be etched in history for all of us as the grandest of all celebrations,” Arunima told This Week In Asia in a phone interview. “I’m proud to represent India as part of the Commonwealth, and present my team of 50 dancers across ages and abilities at this memorable event.”

The daughter of former Delhi Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar described the British queen as “a living bridge between tradition and the contemporary, as well as India and the UK”. “This celebration is really an honour as it celebrates her life, her contributions and her values,” she said.