Weyburn's annual Culture-Palooza is kicking off tomorrow as part of the month-long Culture Days celebration. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. the Indian community in Weyburn will be highlighted with traditional Indian dance performances.
Asha Shivarajan says Indian culture is very rich and diverse as it represents 28 states and eight union territories within the country. The dance styles that will be performed have been gleaned from various regions' cultures.
Six different styles will be performed in total, one being what Shivarajan calls ‘cinematic dance’ as it’s mostly derived from how Indian dancing is portrayed in movies.
“Most of the dances are very energetic, dynamic and synchronized. It also combines classical, flock, salsa, and belly dance. Nowadays you can see contemporary western music included like hip-hop, jazz and funk in our dances.”
The other more traditional styles being performed are Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Chenda Mela, and Kalari Payatu.
Bharatanatyam is originally from Tamil Nadu and is expressive of the spiritual ideas of Hinduism and Jainism. Kathakali is a style that originates in Kerala. It uses music, dance, and acting to portray the Hindu epic books. Shivarajan says it involves heavy makeup and costuming and can sometimes take a full day just to get dressed for the performance.
Chandamela is currently very popular in India, however, Shivarajan says it used to be used only in the temple during rituals or lamp- lighting ceremonies. It’s now seen at various festivities like weddings or other gatherings.
The final style set to be performed is Kalari Payatu, which Shivarajan describes as being more like martial arts. It also finds its origin in Kerala.
They will also hold a fashion show of sorts, displaying many different styles of clothing from various Indian cultures.
Shivarajan explains the cultural significance of the various styles of dance being performed noting the intentionality of many gestures and expressions.
“It's called mudras. It's mostly present in most of the classical dances. It gives out many meanings. For different gods and goddesses, we have different gestures. We use the whole body and hand gestures and facial movements. Like moving the eyebrows and face. A lot of things, they give out certain meanings.”
She shares that the dances have changed with the new generation, but they continue to preserve the culture and tradition they originate from.
“With my son and all my friends having kids now, we are very happy that we are able to show our kids about our culture and ethnicity. Which we wouldn't be able to if there were no cultural programs like this. I'm very happy that these things are conducted here in Weyburn.”