From Chatsworth to Disney: Shiva Thandava dancers to perform at Diwali Fest in US
Indian cultural heritage
The Shiva Thandava Cosmic Temple of Dance will represent South Africa at the prestigious Diwali Fest at Disney World, Florida, this week. Front from left: Shri Reddy, Dayanita Reddy, Natannia Naicker, Utthistha Naicker, Akhayla Naicker, Kourtney Thungavel and Aarya Naidoo. Middle from left: Caitlin Chetty, Mayuri Nadesan, Anrica Mohan, Deirdre Venketess, Porlenejade Onyebinama, Delicia Venketess, Thashmika Naidoo and Bianca Mohanpillay Back from left: Sueyanka Subroyen, Trisha Nadesan, Devashree Kisten, Andrea Pillay and Theressa Padayachee
Image: SUPPLIED
RAKESH RAMDHIN
THE Shiva Thandava Cosmic Temple of Dance from Moorton, in Chatsworth, has been selected to represent South Africa at Disney World's prestigious Diwali Fest in Florida in the United States, from October 9-12.
Nineteen dancers aged 11 to 48 will showcase South African Indian cultural heritage on one of the world's most iconic stages.
For directors Shrimathi Mahlinie Ganasen and Shri Yershen Govindasami, the news of their group’s selection was overwhelming.
“It was a moment of pure joy and immense pride. For Disney to look into our humble community and choose Shiva Thandava is both humbling and exhilarating. It recognizes not just our art, but the heritage and discipline that our dancers embody,” said Ganasen.
The school, which conducts classes at the Sathya Sai Sudar Mandir, in Moorton, has built its reputation not only on Bharatanatyam but alsovalues of humility, devotion, and respect. At
every performance, dancers bow at their parents’ feet to seek blessings, a reminder that art here is more than movement - it is prayer, heritage, and identity.
The local dancers will join 500 performers from the United States and three other countries at Disney’s grand Diwali parade and an international dance showcase at Animal Kingdom.
Their preparation has included months of rigorous rehearsals while balancing school, work, and family responsibilities. This to meet the demands of Disney’s standard in choreography.
The youngest dancer, 11-year-old Sri Reddy, spoke with excitement about the opportunity.
“When I first found out I was performing at Disney, it felt like a dream come true. The most exciting part has been practicing with my group and imagining how it will feel to dance on such a big stage. I hope people see the beauty and spirit of South African Indian culture, and
know that even far from home, our traditions are strong.”
For 48-year-old Theresa Padayachee, a mother and marathon runner, she never imagined such a journey.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would dance at Disney. Dance has taught me discipline, self-expression, and spirituality. Sharing the stage with younger dancers feels like performing alongside my daughters. It proves you are never too old to believe in yourself,” she said.
Despite financial challenges, the community has rallied behind the group with fundraising support. Families, students, and well-wishers have pooled resources to ensure the dancers could take their place on the global stage.
For Ganasen, this achievement carries a message far beyond the performance.
“From Chatsworth to Disney, our dancers carry a message of cultural pride, unity, and resilience. We hope to inspire others to embrace their heritage and share it confidently with the world.”
As the countdown begins, the dancers of Shiva Thandava prepare to carry not only their art but also the spirit of Chatsworth and Phoenix to one of the world’s most iconic stages - a triumph of culture, community, and faith.
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