The Rhythm brings to life, artistically, Mahatma Gandhi's 'unity in diversity' vision for India, showcasing a phenomenal selection of rare traditional dance, modern styles and music from across the nation.

A window to the heart and soul of India, The Rhythm presents an incredible fusion of Carnatic, Hindustani (Classical Indian) & Western music; five extraordinary dances - showcasing four of the eight classical forms of Indian dance, and one contemporary style; twenty-five of India's most celebrated artists; and in the spirit of Gandhi's charity, all proceeds go to The Sydney Children's Hospital, Westmead.

Brilliantly colourful dancers enthral and seduce with two ancient temple dance styles. The first, Odissi, is a classical dance from Oriya - eastern India, is one of the country's oldest dances, depicted in India's revered and ancient Konark Sun Temple, Brahmesvar Temple ruins and Jagannath. The dance is considered a water dance and is part of the five traditional elemental dances. Originally performed by devadasis (servants of the lord) or temple girls in the ancient Jagannath temple at Puri, and later in the royal courts of Mughal India. Odissi dance has been celebrated as the perfect vehicle to balance sexuality and spirituality, according to Tantrism. It is performed to near perfection by Meera Das, Jana Lopamudhra Sathapathy, Isha Mandal Rithika, and Jana Malavika.