Milap’s relationship with Sonia Sabri began when she supported our flagship Dance India program in her role as a tutor, workshop leader and performer. Milap have platformed both Sonia’s solo and company works throughout her career, securing her headline performance spots at major milestone events, including the grand opening of the Capstone Theatre in Liverpool (2010).

Sonia is now a multi-award winning dance artist, choreographer and movement director who has achieved many incredible milestones including choreographing The Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in 2022 and founding the UK’s leading and award-winning contemporary South Asian dance company. Sonia has also recently been awarded an MBE for Services to Dance in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognising her tireless commitment to South Asian dance throughout her career.

Reflecting on her journey and Milap’s 40th Anniversary, we had the chance to speak to Sonia:

Tell us about your journey working with Milap over the years…

“I have had the pleasure of working with Milap for over 20 years. Milap played an important role in supporting my visibility as an upcoming artist in my early career in the early 2000.

Milap and particularly Prashant Nayak ji (previous CEO) with his unwavering belief in me as an artist and my investigation into my craft invited me to many of the Dance India residencies as workshop leader and performer. I had some of my milestone performances through Milap where I had the privilege of performing to some of the greatest artists from India, including the legends of kathak including the Late Pandit Birju Maharaj and Late Smt Kumudini Lakhia ji. Milap continues to be my supporter of all my work till today and I am forever grateful.”

What does Milap’s 40 years means to you and the wider Indian arts community?

“This is indeed a milestone birthday and proves the steadfastness of an organisation truly committed to championing Indian classical arts through some of the most testing of times.

It is inspiring to me as an individual and no doubt to the wider Indian arts community that sometimes despite the uncertainties of the arts landscape, it remains strong and I hope this will motivate artists and communities to have belief in the beautiful heritage we possess to keep shining!”

What is your message of hope or support for Milap’s future as it continues its journey?

“I wish Milap a fantastic year ahead and many many more years to come. I look forward to seeing what lovely events they planned for the future. Wishing you all the very best!”