Indian Culture Goes on Tour in South Korea: ‘Sarang’ Festival Set to Begin

Kalpana Kanungo - Mumbai Bureau Sep 14, 2026 1,750 Views

The Embassy of India has launched the 12th edition of the Sarang cultural festival across major South Korean cities. Featuring classical Odissi dance performances led by Madhulita Mohapatra and public workshops, the weeklong event aims to deepen cultural understanding and interpersonal ties between India and South Korea.

SEOUL — The Embassy of India in Seoul has officially launched the 12th edition of "Sarang: The Festival of India in Korea". Running from September 15 through September 22, 2026, the flagship cultural program spans multiple urban centers—including Seoul, Busan, Gimhae, Gwangju, Miryang, and Nami Island—to deepen bilateral people-to-people exchanges.

Launched originally in 2015, the annual festival serves as a core pillar of India's cultural diplomacy in East Asia. By decentralizing events beyond the capital region, organizers aim to introduce regional South Korean audiences directly to classical Indian artistic traditions, reinforcing bilateral ties that parallel expanding economic and technological partnerships between New Delhi and Seoul.

Classical Odissi Showcase and Nationwide Tour

The centerpiece of the 2026 festival is a dedicated tour featuring Odissi, one of India’s most esteemed classical dance forms originating from the eastern state of Odisha. A visiting troupe led by renowned exponent Madhulita Mohapatra opened the festival with an inaugural performance at the Samsung Hall of Ewha Womans University in Seoul.

Following the Seoul premiere, the troupe embarked on a regional tour conducting public stage performances and specialized dance workshops for local Korean artists and students. The itinerary includes stops at the ASEAN Culture House in Busan, the Gimhae Arts and Sports Center, the Yoga Culture Town in Miryang, and the Asia Culture Center in Gwangju, before concluding with an academic workshop in Seoul. The cultural calendar will extend into November with a companion Indian Film Festival highlighting contemporary cinematic works.

According to official embassy announcements, cultural disclosures, and diplomatic briefings:

Event Duration: September 15 to September 22, 2026.
Core Artistic Medium: Traditional Odissi classical dance and regional workshops.
Geographic Footprint: Performances scheduled across Seoul, Busan, Gimhae, Gwangju, Miryang, and Nami Island.
Collaborating Institutions: Organized by the Embassy of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) in Seoul.

Official Sources Section

Embassy of India in Seoul Official Portal: Festival schedules, inaugural program notices, and cultural event registrations.
Ministry of External Affairs India Cultural Disclosures: International cultural exchange frameworks and bilateral diplomatic outreach updates.

Quote Section

"According to the Indian Embassy in Seoul, the annual Sarang festival aims to showcase India's diverse cultural heritage and strengthen lasting people-to-people bonds between India and the Republic of Korea."

Why It Matters

For bilateral relations, cultural initiatives like the Sarang festival provide a vital social foundation that complements expanding trade, defense, and semiconductor supply-chain agreements between India and South Korea. For local communities across South Korea, the festival offers direct, immersive access to classical Indian performing arts and philosophy.

Key Facts at a Glance

Festival Title: Sarang 2026: The Festival of India in Korea.
Edition: 12th annual iteration.
Lead Performer: Madhulita Mohapatra and classical dance troupe.
Upcoming Extension: 14th Indian Film Festival scheduled for November.

FAQ Session

What is the primary focus of the Sarang 2026 festival?

The festival highlights traditional Indian performing arts, specifically featuring classical Odissi dance performances and interactive community workshops.

Which cities are hosting events during this year's festival?

Performances and workshops are being held across Seoul, Busan, Gimhae, Gwangju, Miryang, and Nami Island.

When was the Sarang cultural festival established?

The flagship cultural program was launched by the Indian Embassy in South Korea in 2015.

Where can participants check detailed ticketing and venue schedules?

Complete program listings and registration links are available via the Embassy of India in Seoul Portal.