Bangladeshi dancer and choreographer Mofassal Alif is set to make history as the first-ever Bangladeshi artist to perform at New York City’s prestigious Battery Dance Festival. Now in its 44th year, the festival is the city’s longest-running free public dance celebration and will be held from August 12 to 16 at Rockefeller Park in Battery Park City, with August 17 reserved as a rain date.
Alif will present the world premiere of his solo piece, ‘In Search of You’ (Moner Manusher Khoje), on August 16 at 7:00 PM EDT.
Rooted in the mystic philosophy of Lalon Fakir, the performance explores themes of spiritual longing, identity and the eternal quest for the inner self.
“This isn’t just a dance, this is a journey,” Alif explained. “We move not to entertain, but to awaken the forgotten silence, the hidden heartbeat, the Moner Manush.”
Reflecting on his invitation to the globally renowned event, Alif said, “It’s an honor to be the first Bangladeshi selected to perform at this festival. It’s a significant moment not only for me but also for Bangladesh on the world stage.”
“In Search of You” delves into the philosophy that understanding the self is key to discovering the soul — an idea deeply rooted in Lalon’s teachings. Alif’s performance aims to bring this spiritual dialogue to life through movement and emotion.
The 2025 edition of the Battery Dance Festival will host eight international companies alongside eight New York-based groups. Known for its cultural diversity and artistic inclusivity, the free outdoor festival offers live performances, workshops, and interactive experiences that celebrate the unifying power of dance.