Indian classical dancer and choreographer Rakhi Bose has been named Artist of the Year at the 2026 Western Australian Multicultural Awards, recognising her work using dance to bridge cultures and expand access for children with disabilities.
As founder of the Academy of Indian Classical and Bollywood Dance, Bose has trained more than 1,000 students and staged over 200 performances, while collaborating with culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) organisations across Indian, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Vietnamese and broader Australian communities. Her work has focused on fostering cultural exchange through both traditional and contemporary dance.
Central to Bose’s recognition is a long-running effort to integrate children with Down syndrome and autism into mainstream dance programs.
By adapting teaching methods and performance opportunities, Bose has sought to create environments where children of varying abilities can participate alongside their peers.
Judges noted that her approach has contributed to changing perceptions of disability within the arts and demonstrated how classical dance can support inclusion.
Her annual production Nritya Gandhar—a fusion showcase blending live music and cross-cultural collaboration—has become a fixture in the local arts calendar, regularly selling out.
Beyond the stage, Bose also runs free movement-based workshops aimed at supporting the mental wellbeing of international students, using dance as a means of connection and self-expression.
The award, presented during Harmony Week celebrations, highlights Bose’s 15-year contribution to Western Australia’s multicultural arts sector, where she has combined performance with community engagement and inclusive teaching practices.
In a statement following the award, Bose described the recognition as deeply personal, reflecting her own multicultural journey, and dedicated it to her students, collaborators and the wider community that has supported her work.
The awards, which mark the beginning of Harmony Week in Western Australia, celebrate individuals and organisations contributing to multicultural inclusion.
Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti said the growing number of nominations each year reflected the strength and diversity of the state’s communities.
Other recipients included community advocate Michael Elwan, youth leader Rodrigues Niyongere and netballer Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, alongside organisations working across community services, local government and business.
Held annually from 15 to 21 March, Harmony Week promotes cultural diversity and coincides with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This year’s awards underscore a broader shift towards community-led, culturally responsive initiatives across the state, with Bose’s work standing out for its blend of artistic excellence and social impact.
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