Bandra is such a wonderful mix of cultures and communities, it is inevitable that dances showcased in the Celebrate Bandra festivals would range from ethnic Koli dances to the more modern hip-hop dances - from Indian classical to Western classical
With most of the top western dance schools of Mumbai having their academies here, it is but obvious that audiences can be treated to a foot tapping and hip swinging display of all well known dances forms - from the Salsa and Rumba to the Jive, Fox trot, Waltz and Ball room. The Western Dance segment includes exciting competitions for different age groups in all these dance categories. Watch contestants burn up the dance floor as they vie for the western dance trophy in the group and solo category.
Indian dance -classical and folk - are very popular with audiences. Dance troupes are all an integral part of our festivals. There is an Indian Dance competition open to all with two categories of Indian Classical Dance (Solo & Group) and Indian Folk Dance (Group) on Friday, 27th November 2009 at Reclamation Promenade. You may register with Shyama Kulkarni on 9821566557 or 26427496 or with Neela Shinde on 9920881024 or 26442618 or (e-mail : neela4shinde@yahoo.com)
And a mix of the Indian and Western cultures is exemplified in the Carnival Parade - a colourful, exotic extravaganza which will include, among other items, floats, dancers, conjurors, marching bands, residents in costume... it promises to be an event to remember.
Indian Dance
Classical Dances of India.
Classical dances in India, are rooted in age-old tradition, each shaped by the influences of a particular period and environment. These pristine forms have been preserved through the centuries, to become a part of our present culture, a living heritage which is both our pride and delight.
Dance forms were nurtured with a purpose in the sacred premises of temples. Temple dancing had a mission : to take art to the people and conveying a message to the masses. Classical Dance was an effective means to suggest the cosmic truth touching the hearts of the devotees through dance and music.
The Devadasi dance tradition which developed through the temple Danseuses is an important type among the dance patterns of India. These dance forms grew and developed a classical status. Nurtured in temples, princely courts or villages, classical dance has moved into the auditorium of today, bringing pleasure to many more people, in far-flung regions.
Folk Dances of India.
India is particularly rich in folk idioms. Each area has its own special varieties, be it martial, seasonal, ritual, sacrificial or celebratory. "Folk" in our practice today indicates community and expressions that are spontaneous and innocent and reflecting their relationship to nature.
The common thing among Folk dance forms is their rural origins. Many folk dances are performed by ordinary people rather than professional dancers. It is very usual that on special occasions, the villagers will gather and sing and dance, accompanying themselves on a variety of folk instruments. Though the folk dances of India are also spiritual and religious in content but the main force behind the folk dances of India is the celebratory mood.