The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) brought to Delhi NCR, Arambh’s powerful and critically acclaimed production, Ladies Sangeet: A Musical Dramedy, to a packed audience at Apparel House, Gurugram, on 30th August 2025. Written and directed by Purva Naresh, the play marked its return to the Delhi-NCR region following its successful New Delhi debut in 2016.
Featuring original music by Vidushi Shubha Mudgal, Harpreet, Anadi Nagar, and Nishant Aggarwal, Ladies Sangeet explores the intersections of tradition, gender roles, and shifting family dynamics in modern Indian society. Set against the colourful and emotionally charged backdrop of a North Indian wedding, the performance takes place during the titular ladies’ sangeet—a traditional pre-wedding gathering meant exclusively for women.
What begins as a multi-generational celebration slowly unfolds into a deeply moving narrative of unburdening, healing, and subtle rebellion. Through sharp wit, evocative music, and engaging performances, Ladies Sangeet creates a space for reflection on societal expectations, the female experience, and the unspoken legacies passed down through generations of women.
The performance was bolstered by stellar acting across the ensemble cast, who brought each character to life with depth, nuance, and emotional authenticity. Audiences were particularly drawn to the chemistry between generations, as well as the natural ease with which actors navigated moments of comedy, tension, and catharsis.
Equally impressive was the stage design, which recreated the energy and intimacy of a North Indian wedding with visual flair.
Speaking about the significance of the performance, Aditi Jaitly, Senior Curator – Performing Art at KNMA, shared, “Until recently, much of Delhi’s performing arts activity has been concentrated in the established venues of central Delhi. But art must always seek new ground. With Ladies Sangeet, directed by Purva Naresh, KNMA begins a new chapter—bringing the best of India’s performing arts to Gurgaon. As our new museum takes shape on NH8, we aim to nourish the growing appetite for cultural experiences across NCR and continue to reflect diverse artistic voices through meaningful and joyful engagements.”
Purva Naresh, writer and director of the play, reflected on the integral role of music in the storytelling, “The music in Ladies Sangeet isn’t just decorative—it drives the narrative. At times, songs replace dialogue to carry the story forward or highlight the underlying commentary on the male gaze embedded in everyday culture. Each piece, curated with deep musical insight by Shubha Mudgal ji, serves as a playful yet poignant reminder of how misogyny and patriarchy are both celebrated and challenged through art.”
Produced by Aarambh Mumbai, a theatre collective founded in 2009 by Purva Naresh and Asmit Pathare, Ladies Sangeet is part of an acclaimed body of original work celebrated for its musical richness, incisive social commentary, and accessible storytelling. Known for pushing the boundaries of contemporary Indian theatre, Aarambh’s productions have been showcased at leading festivals across India and internationally, earning praise for their seamless blend of entertainment and thought-provoking themes. With its blend of humour, music, and emotional depth, Ladies Sangeet continues to resonate with audiences.
As cultural spaces expand across the National Capital Region, KNMA remains at the forefront of nurturing a dynamic and accessible arts ecosystem—where tradition, innovation, and community connect.
