By Gloria Ikibah
The Indian community in Abuja came together on Sunday for an evening of traditional dance, music and cuisine as the Indian Cultural Association (ICA), Abuja, in collaboration with the Indian Women Empowerment Association (IWEA), hosted the 2026 edition of Dandiya Nite. 
The event, held at the Hall of the High Commission of India in Abuja, attracted members of the Indian community and friends of India in Nigeria for a celebration of Indian culture and traditions.
Tagged “Dance, Celebrate, Connect”, Dandiya Nite ’26 celebrated the spirit of Navratri, a major Hindu festival traditionally marked by energetic Dandiya Raas and Garba dances, performed with colourful decorated sticks.
Guests, many dressed in vibrant traditional outfits, filled the venue with festive energy as they danced to the rhythms of drums and Indian folk music.
The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Abhishek Singh, received guests and joined in the celebrations, reflecting the High Commission’s support for cultural exchange and stronger ties between India and Nigeria.
The organisers provided Dandiya sticks for participants, while food stalls served Indian delicacies, including samosas and other traditional dishes.
One of the evening’s highlights was the award ceremony for the Best Dressed and Best Dancers, which gave participants an opportunity to display their creativity, colourful outfits and dancing skills.
Organisers from ICA Abuja said the event was designed to bring people together to celebrate Navratri with enthusiasm while sharing the richness of Indian culture with the Nigerian community.
The celebration also provided an opportunity for members of the Indian community and their Nigerian friends to strengthen social bonds through music, dance and food.
Dandiya Nite ’26 ended with cheers and celebrations, reinforcing the themes of togetherness, cultural pride and friendship between India and Nigeria.
