On May 22, 2026, the High Commission of India in collaboration with the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS), hosted an Indian Arrival Day Showcase featuring the internationally acclaimed Uttar Pradesh Folk Dance Group at the National Library in Port of Spain.

The showcase celebrated the rich cultural heritage and traditions of India through folk dance performances.  The sizable audience attending the cultural show said that they were enthralled by the evening’s performances. Many of them described the presentation as “vibrant, energetic and graceful”. The performers were dressed in colourful traditional costumes adorned with intricate patterns, decorative accessories and striking fabrics, adding to the visual appeal and enhancing the authenticity and beauty of the presentation.

The group is directed by internationally recognised choreographer and cultural ambassador, Sanjay Kumar Sharma.  Sharma is the director of the Charkula Arts Academy, a non-profit cultural organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting Charkula and various Braj folk dance traditions. Through his work, he has participated in numerous prestigious cultural festivals and national events across India and internationally, including performances in Uzbekistan, Hungary, Indonesia, Fiji, Russia, Germany, Singapore, Japan, Switzerland, Vietnam, Bhutan and New Zealand.

His distinguished career includes choreography and cultural direction for major international and national spectacles such as the Republic Day Parade in India, the Commonwealth Games, BRICS Games, National Games, G20 Cultural Evenings, and Jayati Jai Mamah Bharatam 2025, which achieved a Guinness World Record for the Largest Indian Folk Variety Dance performance.  He also received several honours for his contribution to the arts, including the Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman 2017 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award 2019.

NALIS remains committed to promoting cultural awareness and appreciation by providing opportunities for the public to engage with diverse artistic traditions and international cultural experiences.