Ekta Dance Academy Performers to Spotlight Women’s Empowerment at 2026 Woman of the Year Gala

BURLINGTON, Mass. — The spotlight will shine on four dynamic dancers from Ekta Dance Academy as they take the stage at the 23rd Annual Woman of the Year Awards Gala on March 14, delivering a powerful tribute to women’s strength, resilience, and unity.

The annual gala, organized by INDIA New England News, will be held at the Burlington Marriott Hotel and celebrates the achievements and contributions of women across communities.

This year’s dance production centers on the theme of Women’s Empowerment, brought to life through a dynamic narrative performance choreographed by Ekta Jain, founder and director of Ekta Dance Academy. Jain will also be recognized as one of this year’s award recipients, marking a meaningful and celebratory moment for the academy.

Taking center stage are EDA performers Neeha Tangria, Pallavi Gupta, Swati Arora, and Viral Dave, whose performance will blend semi-classical Indian dance, jazz, traditional Indian styles, and high-energy Bhangra. Through expressive storytelling, intricate choreography, and vibrant music, the dancers aim to capture the resilience and collective power of women.

For more than a decade, Ekta Dance Academy has served as a cultural hub dedicated to promoting Indian dance and heritage while nurturing confidence and artistry among dancers of all ages. The upcoming gala performance reflects the academy’s continued commitment to blending tradition with contemporary expression on prestigious stages.

Academy leaders also expressed gratitude to organizers of this platform for providing a platform that celebrates women’s journeys and accomplishments.

The Woman of the Year Gala on March 14 will draw community leaders, entrepreneurs, and cultural advocates for an evening of inspiration, recognition, and artistic celebration — with Ekta Dance Academy’s performers poised to deliver one of the night’s most anticipated highlights.

“As the founder of EDA, I believe dance is not just art–it is a reclaiming of voice,” said Jain. “The performance is dedicated to every woman who is rewriting her story.”