The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) is bringing a slice of India to New York City with its inaugural "India Weekend" from September 12–14, 2025. Founder and Chairperson of NMACC, Nita Ambani, is collaborating with Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna to curate a unique culinary experience showcasing India's rich and diverse food heritage.
The NMACC India Weekend will be held at Lincoln Center, a landmark celebration of Indian art, crafts, music, dance, fashion, cuisine, and traditions on a global stage. Nita Ambani expressed her excitement about sharing India's traditions and legacy with New York City and the world. The event marks NMACC's first major international initiative, transforming Lincoln Center into a hub of celebration, dialogue, and artistry rooted in Indian heritage.
Vikas Khanna, who will be hosting a specially curated workshop at the NMACC India Weekend in New York, celebrated the news at Bungalow with a special floral decoration of Lord Ganesha. He decorated the open ceiling with vibrant flowers in the shape of Lord Ganesha and even spelled out NMACC, florally. A video was released showing Nita Ambani's visit to Vikas Khanna's restaurant, Bungalow, where they discussed the culinary aspects of the India Weekend. Khanna expressed it was an honor for an Indian chef to be hosting Mrs. Ambani.
The culinary experience will feature cuisines and flavors from ancient to modern India. This focus highlights the deep connection between food and heritage, offering attendees an immersive taste of India's gastronomic landscape.
The NMACC India Weekend offers a diverse range of events, including the U.S. premiere of "The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation" at the David H. Koch Theatre. This large-scale musical, conceived and directed by Feroz Abbas Khan, takes the audience on a journey through India's history from 5000 BC to its independence in 1947, blending dance, art, fashion, and music. The musical features a cast of over 100 performers, opulent costumes, and grand sets, with music by Ajay-Atul and choreography by Mayuri Upadhya, Vaibhavi Merchant, and Samir and Arsh Tanna.
In addition to the musical and culinary experiences, the India Weekend includes a Swadesh Fashion Show curated by Manish Malhotra, spotlighting India's traditional weaves and artisans. Shiamak Davar will lead dance sessions, and there will be a cricket panel with Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, and Gaurav Kapur. Other events include mantra chanting, yoga sessions, spiritual talks, and musical performances by Shreya Ghoshal, Shankar Mahadevan and Rishab Sharma. The festival will close with Phoolon Ki Holi, a flower-filled celebration with a Retro Nights-themed DJ set. A Great Indian Bazaar will also be held at Damrosch Park.
