Little World: Immerse in the Enchantment of India with All Five Senses – 'India Festival' Announced for 3-Day Holiday in July {Aichi}

Little World (Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture / Director: Kohei Ikai) will host a 3-day event titled 'India Festival' from Saturday, July 18, 2026, to Monday, July 20 (a national holiday), allowing visitors to experience the diverse culture of India through all five senses. Highlights include an elegant classical dance performance by artists arriving directly from India—exclusive to the final day—as well as limited sales of 'biryani,' India's traditional spiced rice dish that has recently sparked a culinary trend in Japan. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a special trial experience wearing 'saris,' the traditional attire worn by Indian women, along with numerous other Indian cultural activities.

India Comes to Japan! 'Classical Indian Dance Stage' with Graceful Movements

A special stage performance featuring three artists arriving from India.

Dressed in vibrant costumes, the performers will captivate audiences with refined movements and graceful steps, each gesture and fingertip motion infused with sacred meanings from Indian mythology.

Artist Image

[Event Date] July 20, 2026 (Monday, National Holiday)

[Stage Schedule]

① Odissi Dance (Classical Dance from Eastern India): 11:30 AM –

② Indian Dance Demonstration (Classical and Folk Dance): 1:30 PM – ※ Dancers will perform while explaining the art form.

③ Odissi Dance (Classical Dance from Eastern India): 3:00 PM –

[Venue] Main Building Exhibition Hall, Muse Gallery

[Admission] Free (museum entry fee required separately)

◆ Artists from India

Guru Dr. Jagannath Panda

Guru Dr. Jagannath Panda

A leading figure in Odissi dance, one of India's most representative classical dance forms. He is active as a performer, researcher, choreographer, and instructor. He has dedicated his life to preserving and advancing the style of the late Guru Debaprasad Das, a key figure in the revival of Odissi dance.

Tanisha Bebarta

Tanisha Bebarta

A young Indian dancer acclaimed for her expressive abhinaya (facial expressions and gestures) and intricate footwork. She has performed at festivals across India, including in Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, and has extensive international experience in Malaysia, Dubai, and other countries.

Rutuja Mohapatra

Rutuja Mohapatra

Began learning Odissi dance at the age of seven. She actively performs on stages across India, particularly in Odisha, the birthplace of this dance form. In 2026, she was selected to perform at the prestigious Khajuraho Dance Festival, one of the most honored events in Indian classical dance.

◆ Japanese Artists

Tridhara Indian Dance

Chisato Miura & Tridhara Indian Dance

A performance group specializing in Odissi dance. Founded in 2016 by Chisato Miura under the guidance of Guru Dr. Jagannath Panda. The group promotes and popularizes the Guru Debaprasad Das style while incorporating folk and tribal dance elements into their unique choreography.

Authentic Flavor with Aromatic Spices! Special Biryani from 'India Tei'

We will offer limited sales of 'biryani,' India’s traditional spiced rice dish, which has recently become a major culinary trend in Japan. Prepared by the chef at 'India Tei,' the on-site restaurant at Little World, this authentic biryani is rich with the savory flavors of meat and vegetables.

Biryani Image

Biryani (Spiced Rice Dish)

Featuring light, fluffy basmati rice infused with the rich flavors of vegetables and chicken. The complex aroma of Indian spices penetrates deep into each grain, creating a perfect balance of spiciness and depth.

[Sales Period] July 18 (Sat) – July 20 (Mon, Holiday) 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (ends when sold out)

[Location] Main Building Plaza

※ Canceled in case of rain.

Embrace the Beauty of Tradition: Pop-up 'Sari Dressing Experience'

The popular ethnic costume experience 'Sari Try-on' at Little World will be held at a special location near the entrance gate, inside the Main Building Exhibition Hall, during this 3-day holiday. Wrap yourself in an elegant 8-meter-long piece of fabric and immerse in the refined world of Indian tradition. Enjoy a comfortable indoor setting at the Muse Gallery, perfect for taking commemorative photos in traditional attire.

Sari Experience Image Sari Experience Image

[Event Dates] July 18 (Sat) – July 20 (Mon, Holiday)

[Fee] 500 yen (5 minutes per session, one outfit)

[Location] Main Building Exhibition Hall, Muse Gallery