CHANDIGARH: RHYTHM - a vibrant evening of culture and fashion was organized by the Consulate General of India, Sydney at the renowned Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. From medley of classical dances to fusion of percussion, from bollywood beats to yoga, the mesmerizing evening culminated with DHAROHAR – a spectacular fashion show showcasing the rich legacy of Indian textiles.
Those in attendance included Jodi McKay, former Minister and Leader of Opposition, NSW who joined the occasion in an exquisite Saree, Andrew Robb, AO , former Minister for Trade, Investment and Tourism, Mayors and Councilors and distinguished representatives from the fields of arts and culture, media, academia, community organizations and the business fraternity.
In his welcome address, Manish Gupta Consul General highlighted the rich heritage of cultural diversity of India and complimented the multicultural outlook of the Australian society. McKay deeply appreciated the efforts of the Consulate in building cultural bridges between India and Australia, and admired the diversity and ethos of rich Indian culture.
The evening began with a roar of Shiv Garjana Dhol Tasha who presented systematic rhythmic patterns and formations from the ancient tradition. Echoing the spirit of advancing people-to-people engagements that got a special emphasis during the recent India Australia second Virtual Summit, MAITRI - an interactive dialogue of Indian and Australian percussionists conceptualized by Aman Pal, Sydney based Tabla artist and his team along with senior scholars of the Sydney Conservatorium in melodious Raag Puriya Dhanashree elicited a rapturous response. The breathtaking display of various Yoga postures and formations displayed by Dr. Amit Sharma and dedicated volunteers of Dhamma yoga, Sydney left the audience spellbound. The legacy of classical dance was presented through the novel concept of SAMVAD – a medley of classical dances of legendary Bharatnatyam, electrifying Kathak and ever graceful Odissi by Mrs. Manjula Vishwanath, Mrs. Sakshi Kumar and Mrs. Nabanita Banerjee along with their disciples. Audience tapped their feet on Bollywood beats and the Gujarati folk dance choreographed by Juhi Bhavsar.
The finale of the evening was a spectacular display of fashion through the concept “DHAROHAR – Uniting threads of India” showcasing the elegance, exquisiteness and craftsmanship of Indian textiles. The fashion show displayed unique and gorgeous threads representing various states of India by members of the Indian Australian community. Recent festival of colours Holi, ongoing festival of Navroz and its significance was narrated by Farida Irani, Founder Subtle Energies.
Overall, it was a mesmerizing cultural evening that showcased India’s rich cultural diversity and its contribution to the cultural mosaic of Australia.