Performers
Our Performers for 2026
Over the years, countless renowned artists have graced our main stage. We’re always on the lookout for new talent—join our 2026 lineup and showcase your art at our festivals! We’re grateful to our artistic and cultural partners who bring fresh talent and creative energy each year, helping us celebrate and preserve our rich cultural heritage.
The
Headliners
Chunky Panday
Chunky Panday is an Indian film actor widely recognized for his comic timing, easy screen presence, and long-running career across Bollywood and regional cinema. He became popular in the late 1980s with films like *Tezaab* and *Aankhen*, establishing himself as a dependable supporting actor. Although his mainstream Bollywood roles slowed down in the mid‑1990s, he reinvented himself through Bangladeshi films, character-driven roles, and later appearances in modern Hindi films and streaming projects. Over the years, he has remained a familiar and light‑hearted figure in Indian entertainment, appreciated for his humor, versatility, and ability to adapt to changing trends in the industry.
Richa Sharma
Richa Sharma is an Indian playback and devotional singer known for her powerful, soulful voice and strong classical training. She began learning music early in life, studying classical, light, and devotional styles before stepping into Bollywood, where her expressive, high-energy singing quickly made her stand out. Over the years, she has delivered memorable film songs, emotional Sufi-inspired pieces, and widely loved bhajans, earning a reputation for versatility and depth. Her stage performances are especially admired for their passion and vocal strength, making her one of the most respected voices in contemporary Indian music.
Jassi Jasbir
Jasbir Jassi, born Jasbir Singh Bains on 7 February 1970 in Gurdaspur, Punjab, is one of the well-known voices of Punjabi music, recognized as a singer, lyricist, composer, performer, and actor. He began his musical journey in the late 1980s and gained widespread recognition with his breakthrough album Dil Le Gayee (1998), featuring the hugely popular song “Dil Le Gayee Kudi Gujarat Di.” He went on to deliver several successful albums, including Kudi Kudi, Nishani Pyar Di, Just Jassi, Mukhda Chann Varga, and Akh Mastani, establishing a distinctive place in the Punjabi music industry. Jassi has performed for audiences across the world and has also made significant contributions to Indian cinema, lending his voice to films such as Patiala House, Mel Karade Rabba, and Kesari, for which he sang and composed “Ek Onkar.” Beyond music, he ventured into acting with the Punjabi film Khushiyaan in 2011. With his energetic performances, memorable songs, and enduring presence in Punjabi popular culture, Jasbir Jassi has built a career spanning more than three decades.
Khan Saab
Khan Saab, born Imran Khan, is an acclaimed Punjabi singer recognized for his distinctive voice and soulful approach to music. Hailing from Kapurthala, Punjab, he has established himself in the Punjabi music industry through a repertoire that blends traditional Sufi influences with contemporary Punjabi sounds.
Known for his emotive vocal style and meaningful musical expression, Khan Saab has connected with audiences through popular songs including “Zindagi Tere Naal” and “Narazagi.” His music reflects the depth and versatility of modern Punjabi music while retaining its cultural and melodic roots.
With a growing presence among Punjabi music audiences worldwide, Khan Saab continues to bring his distinctive sound and artistry to stages across the globe.
Known for his emotive vocal style and meaningful musical expression, Khan Saab has connected with audiences through popular songs including “Zindagi Tere Naal” and “Narazagi.” His music reflects the depth and versatility of modern Punjabi music while retaining its cultural and melodic roots.
With a growing presence among Punjabi music audiences worldwide, Khan Saab continues to bring his distinctive sound and artistry to stages across the globe.
Kumar Sharma
In the age of western dance forms like Hip-Hop, B-boying, and Ballet, Kumar is a soul who preserves Indian culture and heritage through his dance, in his heart..
Internationally acclaimed Kathak exponent, choreographer & performer Kumar Sharma is a National Scholarship holder from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the visionary behind the globally celebrated style of Kathak Fusion.
A familiar face on television, Kumar has been featured on shows including India’s Dancing Superstar, India’s Got Talent, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, India’s Best Dancer, Super Dancer, Dance Deewane, Russia’s Got Talent and many more. He has performed at prestigious platforms including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Opening Ceremony, Zee Cine Awards, Kaun Banega Crorepati, ISSF World Cup and Femina Miss India.
As a choreographer, Kumar has worked with Bollywood stars including Madhuri Dixit, Ranveer Singh, Jacqueline Fernandez and Alia Bhatt.
He is also the founder of Kathak Rockers, an internationally renowned Kathak Fusion ensemble. With tradition at his core and innovation in his vision, Kumar Sharma represents a new-age expression of Kathak on the global stage.
Kathak Rockers has been established with an insight to look at tradition with a modern approach by Kumar Sharma, to explore the new world of Indian Classical Dance Kathak.
Kathak Rockers blend the colorful experiences of Indian heritage with western disciplines.
As a pioneer in the field of Kathak Fusion, Kathak Rockers has received international acclaim and media attention in Africa, Asia, North America, and Europe.
The crew aims to accomplish supremacy and finesse in the rich classical Indian dance form of kathak. With its rapidly expanding global prestige, KATHAK ROCKERS prides itself on its unique position to preserve Indian culture.
Zunjaar Dhol Tasha
Zunjaar Dhol Tasha Pathak is a vibrant group dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional Maharashtrian art of Dhol Tasha across Toronto and the GTA. Since 2019, the team has been performing at Indian cultural and community events, showcasing the rich heritage of the Maratha Empire through energetic and authentic performances. The group brings together the powerful sounds of Dhol, Tasha, Zhaanz, and Dhwaj, creating an engaging and memorable cultural experience.
Vanshika Jaral
A professionally trained vocalist with over 15 years of musical journey and more than 450 live stage performances, Vanshika has captivated audiences with her soulful voice and versatility in Indian Classical, Bollywood, devotional, and folk music.
Vanshika is an A-Grade Artist with All India Radio and a recipient of the Ministry of Culture Scholarship to Young Artists. She has also been associated with Doordarshan and the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages.
Vanshika is an A-Grade Artist with All India Radio and a recipient of the Ministry of Culture Scholarship to Young Artists. She has also been associated with Doordarshan and the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages.
Toronto Sitar
A sitarist and singer, Toronto Sitar is a Toronto based artist blending her voice with sitar across genres. She likes to create enjoyable and memorable listening experiences across genres including semi classical, light South Asian, jazz and pop music.
Some of her recent performances include solo sets at Farmers Markets, Flag Hoisting Ceremony at the Consulate General of India in Toronto, Open Tuning Festival, opening for artists at various venues in the city and Variety Ontario’s Winter Wonderland fundraiser.
Some of her recent performances include solo sets at Farmers Markets, Flag Hoisting Ceremony at the Consulate General of India in Toronto, Open Tuning Festival, opening for artists at various venues in the city and Variety Ontario’s Winter Wonderland fundraiser.
3S Harmony Dance Group
3S Harmony is a vibrant dance community based in Mississauga, bringing together people of different ages, backgrounds, and skill levels through the joy of dance.
From Bollywood and Tollywood to semi-classical, folk, fusion, and beyond, they love exploring different Indian dance styles and creating energetic performances that connect with audiences.
Their goal is simple and applies to all levels of dancers - build confidence, have fun, stay active, and create unforgettable moments through dance. At 3S they believe “Anybody can Dance”.
Atulyam Twins
The Atulyam Twins are young multidisciplinary performers taking the Greater Toronto Area by storm with their captivating stage presence and vibrant artistry. With a deep passion for their heritage and remarkable talent in vocal and instrumental music, Bollywood dance, semi-classical dance, and Sufi singing, these young artists bring the richness of Indian culture to life. Whether performing traditional ragas and rhythms or moving gracefully through expressive choreography, the Atulyam Twins are making a name for themselves while sharing the beauty of Indian art and culture with audiences around the world.
Mudra Dance School
Mudra Dance School founded in 2022 by Smt. Pooja Ashwin, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the timeless art of Bharatanatyam.
The school blends strong classical foundations with expressive storytelling, shaping confident and graceful performers. With a growing community of aspiring dancers, Mudra Dance School provides authentic Bharatanatyam education while embracing the needs of modern learners. Through dance, the school inspires a lasting connection to Indian culture, tradition, and artistic expression.
The school blends strong classical foundations with expressive storytelling, shaping confident and graceful performers. With a growing community of aspiring dancers, Mudra Dance School provides authentic Bharatanatyam education while embracing the needs of modern learners. Through dance, the school inspires a lasting connection to Indian culture, tradition, and artistic expression.
Band Crescendo
CRESCENDO is a dynamic and passionate youth band bringing together talented young musicians who share a deep love for live performance and musical expression. The band features a powerful combination of drums, vocals, guitar, bass, and keyboard, delivering high-energy performances that connect with audiences of all ages. Their sound blends technical excellence with youthful energy, creating an engaging and memorable experience for any crowd. CRESCENDO has already begun building a strong performance portfolio. They have successfully performed at a community event in Milton, captivating an audience of over 150 attendees, they have also been the runner ups at the Battle of the Beats 2026 and have been invited to perform next year at the Niagara Canada International Film Festival. Recently they won the trophy at the V star Competition and have now been invited to perform at the Vibrant Brampton Festival next year. They were also invited to perform at Summer Skies hosted by Sampradaya Dance Creations and Mississauga Multilingual Fringe Festival hosted by Savitri Theatre Productions. What sets CRESCENDO apart is not just their musical ability, but their professionalism, discipline, and stage presence at such a young age. They bring energy, diversity in sound, and a strong connection with live audiences.
Vruksha Natyalaya
Vruksha Natyalaya is a vibrant dance group celebrating Indian culture through classical dance and creative fusion. From the grace of Indian classical and semi-classical dance to energetic contemporary and Bollywood-inspired performances, our group loves bringing tradition and modern influences together on stage. Today's performance will showcase a mix of Indian tradition and contemporary influences, creating a colourful and energetic Diwali celebration.
Divine Moves
Divine Moves is a vibrant Kathak and semi-classical dance community based in Ontario, bringing together passionate dancers and performers from Mississauga, Brampton, the GTA, Guelph, and nearby cities. They teach, perform, and celebrate Indian classical arts through cultural events, workshops, and performances.
Fusion Crew
With a passion for dance and a love for bringing people together, Fusion Crew is excited to celebrate the spirit of Diwali through the theme “One Light, Many Rhythms”.
Omkara academy of Dance
Omkara Academy of Dance is a premier Bharata Natyam dance institution in Brampton which imparts training and offers classes in the Classical Indian dance of Bharata Natyam to aspiring students, artists and connoisseurs. Started in 2017 by Mrs Rupal Patel, it’s mission is to promote Bharata Natyam training in its purest form, have lecture demonstrations, workshops and in time creative productions not only with the pure idiom of Bharata Natyam but also socially relevant themes.
Sukriti Kathakaar Dance Group
Sukriti Kathakaar is a Kathak school founded by Sukriti Sharma. Their performance reflects the school’s commitment to nurturing students through disciplined traditional training while encouraging confidence, creativity, and a joyful connection with the art form.
Tarana Band
Tarana is a GTA-based collective of young, professionally trained musicians brought together by a shared love for live Indian music and performance. Featuring a dynamic lineup of vocalists and instrumentalists, the group blends thoughtful musical arrangements with high-energy performances that honour the spirit of the music while giving it a fresh, contemporary edge.
Shilompoli Shethra Dance academy
Shilompoli Shethra was founded under the visionary guidance of Smt. Jenani Kumar. She has earned numerous titles, including "Sathankai Narthaki," "Bharathakala Vidthagar," "Nadana Sundari," "Natyasironmani," and "Aadal Arasi Maathavi.
The academy itself is a radiant testament to the power of dedication and artistic innovation. The Academy embarks on its 32nd year as a sanctuary of Bharathanatya excellence,1994 being the beginning of a noble mission—to share the profound wealth of Bharathanatyam with fervent students hailing from diverse backgrounds.
The academy's curriculum is meticulously crafted to cultivate the finest talents. Their performances span annual showcases, prestigious award ceremonies,temple rituals, political spectacles, televised broadcasts, fierce competitions, artistic productions, Arangetrams, philanthropic fundraisers, rigorous examinations, and participation on global platforms like FETNA and the Cleveland Thiyagarajah Festival.
Shilompoli Shethra Dance Academy has earned its place on prestigious stages worldwide, with notable performances like "Paarkadal" in New York, Valli Thirumanam and the splendid staging of "Seetha Kalyanam", featuring over 130 exceptionally talented students. The academy's 25th-year celebration in 2019, with the production "Aaru Padai Veedu" was graced by "Kalaimamani" Zakir Hussai.
Collaboration is an integral part of the academy's journey, as it has forged partnerships with eminent figures such as "Kalaimamani" Zakir Hussain, Prof. O. Muthaiah, the late Prof. Narayanaswamy, Dr. Pathma Subramaniyam, Late Kalanidhi Maami, Kuchipuddi Exponent Shri. Mahadeva Peddi to name a few.The academy has won numerous awards and competitions.
The academy's curriculum is meticulously crafted to cultivate the finest talents. Their performances span annual showcases, prestigious award ceremonies,temple rituals, political spectacles, televised broadcasts, fierce competitions, artistic productions, Arangetrams, philanthropic fundraisers, rigorous examinations, and participation on global platforms like FETNA and the Cleveland Thiyagarajah Festival.
Shilompoli Shethra Dance Academy has earned its place on prestigious stages worldwide, with notable performances like "Paarkadal" in New York, Valli Thirumanam and the splendid staging of "Seetha Kalyanam", featuring over 130 exceptionally talented students. The academy's 25th-year celebration in 2019, with the production "Aaru Padai Veedu" was graced by "Kalaimamani" Zakir Hussai.
Collaboration is an integral part of the academy's journey, as it has forged partnerships with eminent figures such as "Kalaimamani" Zakir Hussain, Prof. O. Muthaiah, the late Prof. Narayanaswamy, Dr. Pathma Subramaniyam, Late Kalanidhi Maami, Kuchipuddi Exponent Shri. Mahadeva Peddi to name a few.The academy has won numerous awards and competitions.
House of Alankaar
House of Alankaar a community Driven Musical Drama Initiative bringing Indian Stories, culture and heritage to life through music, dance and theatre.
Founded by Shuchi Giroti, House of Alankaar gives children a platform to learn, create, perform and connect with their roots - with a new story brought to life every year. From Ramayan to Mahabharat to Shiv Shakti, we continue to make our heritage come alive on stage.
House of Alankaar - where stories are brought to Life.
Founded by Shuchi Giroti, House of Alankaar gives children a platform to learn, create, perform and connect with their roots - with a new story brought to life every year. From Ramayan to Mahabharat to Shiv Shakti, we continue to make our heritage come alive on stage.
House of Alankaar - where stories are brought to Life.
Q-Dance
Q-Dance Studio is a vibrant dance community based in Mississauga, celebrating its first anniversary in 2026. Specializing in K-Pop, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Jazz Funk and choreography, Q-Dance brings together kids and adult dancers through professional training, performance and a shared passion for dance. In its first year, Q-Dance has actively participated in community festivals and cultural events across the GTA, creating opportunities for dancers to grow, perform and connect through movement.
Riyaaz Kathak Group
For the past four years, Riyaaz Kathak Academy has been proudly bringing the beauty, grace, and richness of Kathak to the stage.
Rooted in tradition and guided by dedication, our Kathakaars come together to celebrate the art of storytelling through rhythm, expression, movement and bhaav.
Over these four years, we have had the privilege of performing at various cultural festivals and community celebrations, sharing our love for Kathak and creating meaningful connections through dance.
Riyaaz is more than practice—it is a journey of passion, perseverance, and devotion.
Every rhythm has a story, every expression has an emotion, and every performance is a celebration of our tradition.
Riyaaz Kathak Academy — four years of rhythm, grace, tradition and togetherness.
Rooted in tradition and guided by dedication, our Kathakaars come together to celebrate the art of storytelling through rhythm, expression, movement and bhaav.
Over these four years, we have had the privilege of performing at various cultural festivals and community celebrations, sharing our love for Kathak and creating meaningful connections through dance.
Riyaaz is more than practice—it is a journey of passion, perseverance, and devotion.
Every rhythm has a story, every expression has an emotion, and every performance is a celebration of our tradition.
Riyaaz Kathak Academy — four years of rhythm, grace, tradition and togetherness.
Dance Devotion
Dance Devotion is a vibrant and dynamic group of talented ladies who bring the magic of Bollywood and Marathi folk dance to the stage with energy, grace, and heart. United by friendship, passion, and a deep pride in their traditions and folklore, they celebrate culture through every performance — blending rhythm, expression, and joy while creating unforgettable moments filled with fun and devotion to dance.
Pure Soul Energy
At Pure Soul Energy Dance Academy they express themselves through the art form called “Dance”. They have been teaching dance and performing for over 10 years in GTA. Ritu, Artistic Director of Pure Soul Energy and other members of the performance group have shared their Pure Soul Energy at numerous events across the GTA. The Dance Academy provides classes to seniors, kids, youth & adults.
Mudra School of Dance
Mudra School of Dance is a Kathak dance school dedicated to cultivating a new generation of Kathak dancers here in Canada. With 100+ students and 2 locations in the GTA, Mudra School of Dance offers a comprehensive curriculum rooted in classical technique and rich cultural heritage. We encourage a warm, welcoming community where dancers of all levels can grow, express themselves, and connect with the Indian classical art.
Nritya Kala Mandir
Nritya Kala Mandir is a renowned Bharatanatyam dance school that has been preserving and promoting Indian classical dance in Canada for over 25 years. With locations in Brampton and North York, the school has trained more than 600 students under the guidance of Guru Kanan Bhatt and Mudra Bhatt Lakhia. Through traditional training and inspiring performances, Nritya Kala Mandir continues to connect the next generation with India’s rich cultural heritage.
Oorja Danceworks
Oorja Danceworks is a Toronto based dance company and creative studio founded by Devanshi Mishra dedicated to blending Bollywood, contemporary, and South Asian movement practices. Recently featured at DanceWeekend at Harbourfront Centre, Oorja’s performances are rooted in dynamic storytelling, musicality, and cultural dialogue. Beyond the stage, Oorja operates a growing studio space in Toronto offering classes and workshops for dancers of all levels, from foundational training to performance development. With a focus on accessibility and community building, the company creates spaces for both emerging and experienced artists to train, collaborate, and share work.
Are you an artists?
Interested in partaking in our event?
Please fill out the form below and send it to artist@diwalirazzmatazz.com
