Kolkata dance group apologises after Goddess Kali performance sparks backlash

A Kolkata dance group's performance depicting Hindu goddess Kali received criticism over the performer's attire and presentation. The organisers posted a statement of clarification on Facebook.Kolkata dance group apologises after Goddess Kali performance sparks backlash (Photos: X)The organisers of a Kolkata-based dance group have apologised after a performance portraying Hindu Goddess Kali received backlash over the performer’s attire, saying the costume had not been approved by the team.The performance was staged by Nitya – Faculty of Sight at an auditorium in Kolkata as part of a dance presentation featuring Hindu deities. The video of the performance was later shared online, where the portrayal of Goddess Kali, particularly the performer’s costume and certain movements, received criticism from viewers.Watch the video here:The backlash centred mainly on the performer’s attire and the way the character was presented on stage. Viewers described the portrayal as inappropriate and felt that the performance had crossed a line in depicting a revered deity. Amid the discussion, Nitya – Faculty of Sight issued a statement on Facebook addressing the controversy. The organisers said the choreography, dance style and presentation were the artist’s own creative decisions, while the group had provided the prescribed script and audio.They further explained that the costumes seen during the final performance had not been used during rehearsals. According to the organisers, the artist appeared on stage in an outfit that was different from the one expected by the team, leaving them surprised. The group acknowledged that it should have exercised greater oversight over the costumes and stage presentation and apologised for the lapse. At the same time, it maintained that the particular costume and performance had not been planned or authorised by the organisers.The statement also said that the artists had been given considerable creative freedom based on their experience and professionalism. The organisers said they respected the audience, the artists and the dignity of the event, while stressing that they would introduce stricter checks over costumes and stage presentations in future.Take a look at their statement here:The controversy subsequently turned into an intense debate online about artistic freedom, religious representation and where the line should be drawn when depicting revered Hindu figures on stage.- EndsPublished By: Yashna TalwarPublished On: Aug 13, 2026 20:46 IST