There's going to be a whole lot of swaying and movement on display as Raqs Royale, presented by Hip-Nosis-Dance Of Desert, will take centrestage at a Mumbai venue. Witness the blend of traditional Middle Eastern movements and contemporary styles, featuring more than 100 dancers from across India, and international stars. The festival promises a series of masterclasses, workshops, competitions, and grand gala shows that showcase the very best of this ancient art form. Performers from countries such as Poland, Egypt, and the USA will share the stage, blending traditional belly dance with contemporary elements in awe-inspiring performances.

The inception of Raqs Royale came from merging two separate festivals, Hip-Nosis and Dance Of Desert, with the goal of “elevating art and uniting hearts.” According to Payal Gupta, festival co-organiser, this eighth edition is the largest yet. “We wanted to create a space where dancers could learn, compete, and showcase their talent on a global stage while preserving the essence of belly dance,” she explains. The festival also serves as a platform for passionate performers from India and abroad to exchange knowledge and experiences.