

For Dutch artists and cultural organisations, working with India can be hugely rewarding and enriching, but for projects or activities there has to be a clear interest or demand from the Indian partner and/or audience. Productive partnerships are developed in dialogue. Projects or activities connected to cultural trends in India, connecting cultures (for example with an exhibition of both Indian and Dutch artists), or linked to sustainability (e.g. with a demand for Dutch expertise) are particularly eligible to receive Dutch support.
India is a country of festivals, not least as a result of all its cultural and religious traditions. There are festivals big and small, in every region, in every imaginable cultural field, ranging from films and music to literature and fashion. These festivals are usually well attended and establish a direct link with the Indian audience. During the current COVID-pandemic, many festivals are taking place online, which lowers the threshold for participation by artists based in the Netherlands. There is much interest among Indian festival organisers to invite Dutch participants. Dutch artists aspiring to become active in India are advised to consider participating in suitable Indian festivals, which provides a good entry into the Indian market.
European music and dance performances may find an enthusiastic reception in India, especially if it includes an element of collaboration with Indian performers. Performing at one of the many festivals held in India often means exposure to large audiences. Some Dutch DJs are now especially popular among young urban professionals in India, where they perform in the club scene in Bengaluru and other cosmopolitan cities. Codarts in Rotterdam is one of the few conservatories in Europe offering a full-fledged academic programme in Indian music.
In previous years, various cooperation projects have taken place. Dutch historical heritage is less controversial in India than in some other countries since the Dutch mostly engaged in trade rather than in territorial conquest. The Dutch approach is that monuments should be preserved as an integral part of local community development. Experts from the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands (RCE) and other institutions can provide assistance and expertise in developing strategies using a community-based approach.
Would you like to receive more information regarding opportunities for cultural exchange with India? Feel free to contact our Focal Countries Desk with your questions.
Further reading