Local Indian group Bharatiya Sanskritik holds cultural event at Phoenix Resource Centre
Newbury residents were treated to an Indian cultural display full of song and dance two weeks ago.
On the afternoon of Saturday, April 22, local Indian group Bharatiya Sanskritik put on its Glimpses of India event at the Phoenix Resource Centre on Newtown Road to celebrate the Asian country’s rich cultural heritage.
The event showcased traditional dance and music from 16 different Indian states, representing every corner of the large country.
Bharatiya Sanskritik member Sanjeev Agarwala said: “All performances were a true celebration of India's diverse cultural legacy.
“The performers donned colourful clothes and intricate costumes, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
“The audience was mesmerised by the beats of the music and the sweet melodies.”
The event opened with a devotional song from the Indian state of Karnataka, followed by regional dance forms of other states including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam.
Audiences were encouraged to learn more about India's cultural heritage through interactive displays of presentations as well.
Mr Agarwala continued: “The Glimpses of India event was a true celebration of the richness and diversity of Indian culture and was attended by people of all age groups.
“It was a resounding success and highlighted the importance of promoting cultural diversity and understanding through events.
“The performances were breathtaking and truly represented the diverse communities of India based in Newbury. It was a wonderful experience.”
Newbury MP Laura Farris and West Berkshire Council leader Lynne Doherty also both attended the event.
Addressing the audience at the end of the event, Mrs Farris said: “What a treat it was to watch the Glimpses of India cultural event at the Phoenix Centre in Newbury this afternoon.”
To see more photographs from the event, pick up last week’s edition of the Newbury Weekly News.
