New Delhi, Oct 26 (JKNS): VIDYA India, under the leadership of Founder-Chairperson Rashmi Misra, organised Tradition & Beyond, a fundraising performance featuring renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Geeta Chandran and the Natya Vriksha Dance Collective at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, on October 23. The event was attended by Chief Guest Amitabh Kant.
Issued to Kashmir News Bureau (KNB), the press release stated that the programme brought together India’s classical dance traditions and VIDYA’s efforts to expand access to education, skill development and empowerment for underserved communities.
The fundraising initiative aims to support VIDYA’s proposed **80,000-square-foot Discovery & Innovation Hub in Gurugram**, which is envisioned as a centre for learning, creativity, exploration and innovation.
The organisation aims to reach 5,000 people in the first year through initiatives planned under the proposed hub, with a focus on children, youth and women. The project is expected to provide opportunities for developing knowledge, practical skills and confidence.
Speaking on the occasion, VIDYA India Founder-Chairperson Rashmi Misra highlighted the role of cultural initiatives in advancing social causes. She said programmes such as *Tradition & Beyond* help generate support for efforts aimed at expanding educational opportunities and empowering underserved communities.
For Geeta Chandran, the performance offered an opportunity to connect Bharatanatyam’s classical heritage with a wider social purpose. The presentation celebrated India’s cultural traditions while supporting VIDYA’s work in education and community development.
The event also highlighted VIDYA India’s efforts to collaborate with artists and cultural institutions to mobilise support for its educational and developmental programmes.
### About VIDYA India
VIDYA Integrated Development for Youth and Adults (VIDYA India) is a non-profit organisation working in education, skill development, digital literacy, livelihoods and community empowerment. Founded by Rashmi Misra in 1985, the organisation began with five children in her Delhi home and has since expanded its work through more than 300 projects across India.
Its programmes support school education, youth employability, digital learning and women’s economic empowerment. Guided by the motto *“Educate. Empower. Transform.”*, the organisation works to improve access to education and opportunities for underserved communities.
About Rashmi Misra
Rashmi Misra is the Founder-Chairperson of VIDYA India. Since establishing the organisation in 1985, she has led initiatives focused on education, digital literacy, youth skill development and women’s empowerment. Her recognitions include the Qimpro Gold Standard Award 2025 in Education and the Angel of Mumbai Award 2026.
About Geeta Chandran
Geeta Chandran is an acclaimed Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer and educator and the founder of Natya Vriksha. Her work explores the relationship between classical traditions and contemporary expression, while nurturing young dancers and promoting Indian classical arts.
