Indian Heritage To Be Celebrated Saturday In West Nyack

WEST NYACK, NY — A special Indian Heritage Celebration Saturday at the Palisades Center will feature several local dance schools and a highlight performance by 50 women in traditional costume.

“This is an opportunity to experience the culture of India and enjoy beautiful dance performances,” said Rockland County Legislator Aney Paul. In association with Rekha Nair of the Kalakendra NY School of Dance, Paul has coordinated the special celebration, which focuses on dances that are traditional to the Indian state of Kerala as well as other regions.

The state was established on Nov. 1, 1956, well after India became an independent nation in 1947. Kerala, a popular tourist destination, is a state in southwest India. It considered is a haven for the lover of dance, drama, music and festivals, and is often referred to as “God’s own country,” Paul said.

“This is a great opportunity to learn more about the dances of India,” Paul, who originally hails from Kerala, said. “One need not be Indian to experience this event and celebrate Rockland County’s rich diversity.”

The highlight event will be a dance called Thiruvathira, featuring 50 women in Indian costumes. Rekha Nair is the choreographer, with coordination by Nisha Jofrin, Sheeja Nishad and Lyssy Alex.

Most of the other dances will include at least eight dancers each, with performances by members of the Mayura School of Arts, under direction of Bindiya Sabarinath; Global Mudra Performing Arts, directed by Indhra Rajasekhar; Sattvika Dance Academy, directed by Devika Nair; Jhoom Dance Academy; and Shine Roy & Team. Keyboards by Saint Symphony Piano School.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 7,800 Indian-Americans call Rockland County home. There are about 3 million Indian-Americans in the U.S.

The free event runs from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday on the first floor near Kay Jewelers at the Palisades Center.

“Visitors can also visit one of the mall’s many shops and enjoy a meal or snack at one of the eateries," said Paul, who is also chair of the Legislature’s Special Committee on Minority & Women Business Enterprise..