Shivleela Makes History in Edison, NJ — Varsha Naik’s Broadway-Style Dance Drama Sets New Benchmark for Indian Theatre in the USA

Edison, NJ – History was created in Edison as Shivleela, a grand Broadway-style dance drama directed and choreographed by USA-based visionary Varsha Naik, mesmerized a packed auditorium at J. P. Stevens High School.

Presented by Navrang Dance Academy, the spectacular production brought together 70 artists and volunteers — totaling 108 dedicated contributors — and drew an audience of over 709 attendees, including distinguished guests from across the tri-state area.

Under the artistic vision of Varsha Naik, Shivleela delivered a powerful and immersive portrayal of Lord Shiva through a seamless fusion of classical Indian dance, theatrical storytelling, and Broadway-scale production design. The performance beautifully blended deep-rooted Indian traditions with contemporary stage excellence, setting a new standard for Indian cultural theater in the United States.

A key highlight of the evening was the masterful light and sound design, expertly managed by Shrikant Gavas. His technical precision and artistic execution elevated the production into a truly grand theatrical experience, enhancing every dramatic moment on stage.

The Honorable Mayor of Edison Township, Sam Joshi, praised the initiative, stating:

“Varsha Naik is keeping Indian culture alive in the USA by creating meaningful dramas in the form of storytelling and helping the community stay connected to their roots.”

The event received strong support from prominent community leaders. Raj Pandya of the Pandya Foundation and Vaidehi Dongre Pandya described Shivleela as a phenomenal drama and expressed enthusiasm for supporting future productions that celebrate Lord Shiva and Indian cultural heritage.

Additional support was extended by Surendra Singh and Anu Kumari of Suhag Jewelers.

A special highlight of the evening was the powerful portrayal of Mahadev by renowned Mumbai-based dancer and choreographer Sandip Soparrkar, whose commanding stage presence, devotion, and artistry brought depth and intensity to the role. The production was brilliantly supported by the talented students and artists of Navrang Dance Academy.

Supporting Organizations & Community Partners

Pandya Foundation • S N Tours and Travels • A2Z Entertainment • Cultivate Talent – Bhajan Clubbing • UPFNA • Guru Ji Ka Mandir @ Kilmer • Sohanika • Mukesh Modi of The World Voice • World Peace Harmony • BCB Bank • Valam Foods • Samosa Factory • Mejwani • Sai Cat Caterers • Patel Brothers • Simran Aahuja • Sewa International • Menlo Park Leo Club • AIM Finances

For the past 13 years, Navrang Dance Academy has been dedicated to promoting Indian culture through storytelling and dance. Shivleela marks the academy’s first grand in-house theatrical production — setting a new benchmark for Indian stage presentations in America.

With overwhelming community support and resounding success, the team now looks forward to bringing Shivleela to multiple cities across the United States, continuing their mission of celebrating Indian heritage through powerful, large-scale theatrical storytelling.

Media Contact:
🌐 www.Navrangdance.org
Navrang Dance Academy
Directed by Varsha Naik