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Background: Pediatric oncology patients often experience significant psychosocial distress, yet culturally adapted psychosocial interventions remain scarce in low-resource Indian settings. Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) employs embodied expression as a psychotherapeutic approach and may be particularly suitable where verbal communication is limited and dance traditions are culturally resonant.

Objective: To examine whether a culturally grounded, Indian dance-informed DMT program can enhance emotional well-being, social engagement, and perceived quality of life among pediatric oncology patients, as observed by caregivers.

Methods: Using an interpretive-constructivist qualitative design, a six-session DMT program incorporating Sattriya and Bihu movement elements was implemented at the Deepsikha Foundation in Guwahati, Assam. Five children (ages 6–15) who attended at least four sessions were included. Semi-structured interviews with caregivers were conducted within 24 hours of the final session. Transcripts were translated into English and analyzed inductively using thematic analysis across three coding cycles.

Results: Six interrelated themes emerged:

1. treatment-related behavioral shifts,
2. increased sense of self and confidence,
3. improved mood and emotional regulation,
4. evolving caregiver perspectives,
5. enhanced social interaction and group cohesion, and
6. perceived therapeutic value of DMT.

Caregivers described greater resilience, peer engagement, and use of movement-based coping strategies among children.

Conclusion: Findings suggest that culturally adapted DMT is a feasible and meaningful adjunct in pediatric oncology within low-resource Indian contexts. It may promote emotional resilience and social connectedness. Further mixed-methods research with larger samples and standardized measures is recommended to evaluate long-term impact and therapeutic mechanisms.