Tufts University South Asian student association (TASA) presented their culture show at the Cohen Auditorium in Tufts University on March 4th and 5th. Titled “Awaz” the show showcased a collection of colorful creations. The group of participants were quite diverse and included several non South Asians.  “TASA is not just for South Asians. It is for all those who are interested in our culture. I am so glad to see the interest in TASA amongst non South Asians at Tufts” said Abha Verma, a recent Tufts graduate who as a student was a very active member of TASA and the Tufts Bhangara team.

A creative and energetic dance performed by freshman kicked off the show.  The piece took everyone on a journey through Bollywood’s history spanning from 1960 – 2005.  This was followed by “Open Bhangara” featuring a mix of different styles of Bhangara. A poetry presentation titled Salaam was followed by a number that combined Bollywood moves with Ballroom dancing. Wedding Qawwali from the musical “Bombay Dreams” featured a few Kathak moves and had some interesting choreography. The Tufts Bhangara team which has won several competitions was up next. A fashion show followed.

“Punjab da Aag” was a Bhangara number that had quite a few traditional moves. Surprisingly it was choreographed by Jed Foreman. This was a testimony to the fact that Bhangara is now part of the mainstream American culture. The garba presentation by the Tufts Garba Raas team was the highlight of the show. It was clean well choreographed presentation.  More Bollywood numbers including the ever popular Nimbooda was part of the mix.  There were a few cute skits that made the audience laugh.

The audience gave an enthusiastic response to the various performances.TASA culture show directors Tanmay Gosalia, Shikha Gupta, Apurvi Mehta, Ronak Parikh and Mghna Shah should be congratulated on a job well done.

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