Review: RUSSIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE Kalinka Highlights Bollywood Influence In Russia

Remember Raj Kapoor's -- Sur par laal topi roosi? The epic lines that became an anthem in India had quite a crossover effect.

For years after the famous song was released, the Russians played and re-played the song everywhere from cafes to Russian streets.

So, when the very famous dance ensemble group from Russia -- Kalinka, came to India to perform, it was natural that the memories of that era and the Indo-Russian cultural exchange that began back then had to be revisited.

As part of the recently concluded Rosatom Festival of Science and Culture, an event organized by Russia's Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation in Nehru Centre, Mumbai and Russian Centre For Science And Culture in Mumbai and New Delhi from October 24th to 29th 2018, Kalinka, the talented dance troupe from Russia did strike a chord amongst the audiences.

The performance had the attending members spell-bound as they watched Russian folk dance. Kalinka, is one of the most famous children's folk Russian dance group in the world. Named after A Fillipov, it was fiunded back in 1968 by famous Russian choreographer Alexander Filippov. More than 20,000 children were trained in "Kalinka" in the 50 years of existence.

The rhythmic moves and the easy synchronization amongst the dancers was an easy reference for many used to Bollywood style ensemble dances. Confirming how the Indian film industry may be binding the two continents Natalya Levitskaya- Filippova, the artistic director of Kalinka said: "Bollywood movies still find their way towards the hearts of Russians and inspire artistic community there."

Rosatom Festival of Science and Culture was held in Mumbai and New Delhi. The program of the event included scientific and educational activities focused on nuclear science and technologies. This evening was surely instrumental in bringing people closer to the idea of the meet and of course join some spell-binding performances.