Seven Sisters, One World Stage

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi stepped onto British soil this July, the headlines spoke of trade, investment, and diplomacy. But tucked among the policy discussions was something far more colourful; a cultural handshake between India and the UK, one that could carry the folk songs, dances, and stories of India's Seven Sister States far beyond the eastern hills and valleys.

- RAJIB CHAKRABORTY

Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura have always been rich with tradition. From bamboo dance and war drums to haunting folk ballads passed down through generations, their artistry has been deeply rooted in local soil.

Now, a new Programme of Cultural Cooperation (PoCC) between India and the UK is giving these traditions a chance to bloom on an international stage.

The British Council, working alongside India's Ministry of Culture, is the UK's cultural bridge in this initiative. It's not just about sending performers abroad—it's about building skills, restoring old folk songs, digitising archives, and helping local artists find a global audience.