Indian Performing Arts Samskriti, based in Houston, is a trailblazer in the true sense of the word, being the first of its kind in Texas, and has earned a reputation as an exemplary organization due to its outstanding contributions to the preservation and promotion of Indian performing arts in the United States. Founded in 1995, Samskriti has become a cultural beacon, bridging the gap between diverse artistic traditions and fostering cross-cultural understanding through its performances, educational programs, and community outreach. The organization's vision to integrate the rich heritage of Indian classical arts with the broader cultural landscape of America has made it a significant force in the performing arts community. 

Samskriti’s wide array of productions range from traditional Indian classical arts to innovative collaborations with multicultural musicians and dancers. Notable productions include A Story, A Song and a Dance, with an African-American storyteller, Flamenco and Indian musicians, and Indian dancers, and Texas’ first multicultural performance Transcending Borders: The Ramayana Project, melding the music and dance forms of Thailand, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and India. These performances have garnered local and international critical acclaim for their artistic integrity and innovative choreography, spearheaded by Samskriti’s Artistic Director, Rathna Kumar. 

Samskriti’s artistically meritorious programs have attracted diverse audiences from all over Houston and increased appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage. Samskriti has presented North America’s first international dance conferences with special grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, and Texas’ first arts conferences in collaboration with Houston’s Museum of Fine Arts and the University of Houston’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Unique cross-cultural programs presented under the aegis of the Asia Society have added a new dimension to Samskriti’s presentations. Art and literature are a country’s greatest and most lasting treasures. Agnes de Mille once said - “to understand a nation, listen to its songs, look at its dances”. Samskriti wants its audiences to understand India through its performing arts. To Samskriti, preserving the rich and vibrant folk and traditional arts of India in Houston is a responsibility it has taken on seriously and with sincerity, and it hopes to continue doing this valuable artistic service for many years to come.