‘The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation’ coming to New York

The US premiere of India’s largest theatrical production set for ‘India Weekend’ at Lincoln Centre in September

By Arun Kumar

The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) is set to make a landmark international debut with the first edition of ‘India Weekend’ in New York City, to be held from September 12–14, 2025, at the Lincoln Centre for the Performing Arts.

The inaugural edition will showcase India’s rich cultural legacy across music, theatre, fashion, crafts, and cuisine. The centrepiece of the three-day celebration is the U.S. premiere of ‘The Great Indian Musical: Civilisation to Nation’, India’s largest theatrical production, featuring over 100 performers and a Tony and Emmy award-winning crew.

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Directed by Feroz Abbas Khan and featuring choreography by Vaibhavi Merchant and Mayuri Upadhya, with music by Ajay-Atul and costumes by designer Manish Malhotra, the production promises a grand retelling of India’s history from 5000 BC to its independence in 1947.

Founder and chairperson Nita Ambani described the weekend as a global celebration of India’s cultural richness. “It is designed to be a global celebration of India’s cultural legacy – our art, crafts, music, dance, fashion, and food. At NMACC, our vision has always been to showcase the best of the world to India and bring the best of India to the world,” she said.

“This special weekend marks the first step forward on that journey, celebrating the spirit of India on one of the world’s most iconic stages – Lincoln Center. I am excited to share our rich traditions and legacy with New York City and the world.”

The event will also feature an invite-only, red-carpet evening called the ‘Grand Swagat’, with Swadesh Fashion Show curated by Manish Malhotra, showcasing traditional Indian weaves.

A culinary showcase of ancient and modern Indian cuisine, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna. A ‘Great Indian Bazaar’ at Damrosch Park, running throughout the weekend, offering immersive experiences in Indian textiles, crafts, wellness, and performing arts.

The cultural highlights include morning bhajans, Gita readings, and yoga workshops led by wellness expert Eddie Stern, dance sessions with Shiamak Davar’s team, live musical performances by Shankar Mahadevan, Shreya Ghoshal, Parthiv Gohil, and Rishab Sharma, and a festive closing with ‘Phoolon Ki Holi’ and a Retro Nights-themed DJ set.

Bookings for the NMACC India Weekend in New York will open soon.

At WAVES 2025, Ambani had reinforced the global relevance of Indian culture and announced a major international initiative by the NMACC.

The Lincoln Centre event, she then said, would be part of a broader movement to place India’s cultural heritage at the heart of global dialogue. “We stand at a moment unlike any before. A moment where Indian culture can shine on the world stage, not just in fragments but in its full granularity.”