On September 8 at 12.30 pm at Lower Hutt Town Hall, Wellington
Venkat Raman
Auckland, September 2, 2024
The nuances of classical music and dance will confluence to demonstrate a unique integration of arts at an event in Wellington this weekend.
Titled, Indian Classical Arts Festival: A Celebration of India’s Ancient Dance and Music, the programme will be held from 12.30 pm at the Lower Hutt Town Hall, located at 32 Laings Road, Hutt Central.
Namasankeerthanam Group, an informal voluntary group is organising the event, which is said to be the first of its kind in Wellington.
Spotlight on talent
Prabha Ravi, Director and Principal of Lower Hutt-based Natraj School of Dance, who is a part of the organisational group, said that the Festival will bring together talented artists from across the Wellington region to celebrate the timeless beauty and profound spirituality of Indian art forms.
“The Indian Classical Arts Festival promises to be a cultural feast, featuring captivating performances of classical Indian dance forms such as Bharata Natyam, Mohiniattam, Kuchipudi and Kathak. Each of these dance forms, with roots that date back thousands of years, embodies the intricate storytelling, expressive movements and deep spiritual connections that are hallmarks of Indian dances,” she said.
Those attending the Festival will also experience the mesmerising sounds of classical Indian music, with the Veena, Mridangam, flute and violin, along with classical vocal music that resonates with the soul, she added.
The Festival is being supported by the Indian High Commission, the Ethnic Communities Ministry and the Hutt City Council.
Celebrating diversity
Ms Ravi said that the Festival is a celebration of India’s ancient art forms that have transcended generations, preserving the rich cultural tapestry of the country.
“It aims to bring these exquisite traditions to the forefront, providing a platform for the talented artists within our community to share their passion and mastery with a wider audience,” she said.
Ms Ravi said that various forms of Indian Classical Dance and Music are not just performances; they are profound expressions of devotion, philosophy, and history. Each dance form tells a story, whether it is the dramatic tales of Hindu Deities depicted in Bharata Natyam or the graceful, fluid movements of Mohiniattam that symbolise feminine beauty. Likewise, Classical Music is deeply intertwined with spirituality, with each note and rhythm bringing performers and listeners close to the Divine, she said.
Vishwa Alagappan, who is leading the Youth Project related to the event, said that the Festival is not only for people familiar with Indian classical arts but also for anyone who appreciates the beauty of culture and music.
“We are excited to share these art forms with the broader community and invite everyone to come and experience the magic of Indian classical dance and music,” he said.
