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Odissi
(Classical Indian Dance), Tabla, Pakawaj (Classical Drum
from Orissa), Classical Singing...Learn
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Odissi,
Khalbelia 'Gypsy' Dance, Rajasthani Folk Dances, Belly
Dance, Rajasthani Folk Drumming...Learn
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Oriental
Fusion Dance, American Tribal Belly Dance, Bollywood Mujra’
s and Rajasthani Dance...Learn
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With
guidance from my Odissi Guru, I have learned Classical Indian
dance as a form of deep prayer and meditation. Though not all
dances may have such deeply rooted spirituality as the 2,000 year
old temple dance- Odissi, I believe that dance is channeling energy.
Our goal is to offer students a place of devotion and surrender
so that each student who has made the journey to come to our school,
will find the safety to travel even further within themselves. |
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Located
in the small, holy town of Pushkar, Rajasthan, India, the temple
which houses Shakti Studios has a long history. Lord Bramha, who’s
only temple on earth lies in Pushkar, is the god of creation from
the Hindu trinity (Bramha the creator, Vishnu the preserver and
Shiva the destroyer). Creation and creativity emanate from the
steps of the sacred lake that Pushkar is build around. The Old
Rangi Temple is over 200 years old and a rare example of both
Rajasthani and South Indian architecture. The studio is located
in a breezy hall with filtering light sifting through the carved
screen windows and scalloped archways. The alter which we face
as we dance, is always stocked with fresh ‘Pushkar rose’
garlands and wafting incense. There are 2 halls for group and
private lessons.
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To
find us simply follow the main market road along the lake to
Choti Basti ( the main town square), continue westward until
coming to Honey and Spice café in the temple entrance
(opposite the lake). As you enter the Old Rangi temple complex
keep to the Left of the main temple, the first doorway on the
left side has the stairs up to the 2nd level. We are in the
top left corner of the complex, don’t hesitate to ask
someone for help getting there. You are welcome to observe classes.
If you are having trouble finding us you may inquire with our
friends at Kings Good Music Shop or at Honey and Spice café.
From New Delhi (the closest major international airport) you
would take a train to Ajmer, Rajasthan. From there you can take
a taxi or local bus from the bus stand to Pushkar (about 15-
20 minute drive). |
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The
Khalbelia are a very poor caste people who’s traditional
profession is snake-charming and begging. Due to their low position
in society, they are often accused of terrible things which often
are not true. To someone who is very close with these people and
has studied various aspects of their unique culture, I see their
traditions in dance as invaluable. Teaching dance is a powerful
way to realize the value of your dance traditions, as well as
ask questions about who you are. I opened classes with the Khalbelia
women in hopes of a few things:
a) To create a sense of pride and empowerment in these low caste
women by discovering within themselves that they are talented
artists with so much to share.
b) To give the Khalbelia women a safe, respectful and sacred place
to teach dance.
c) To offer an opportunity where their art can be taken seriously. |
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d)
To create for the Khalbelia women an opportunity to earn a decent
living wage, in turn dispelling slanderous rumors of their indecency.
e) To create a safe and comfortable place for girls of different
cultures to dance together.
f) To ensure visitors will get the best dance classes Rajasthan
has to offer.
g) To share with people the amazing effects of connecting with
a culture through the vehicle of dance.
We regularly cycle teachers to share the job opportunity amongst
the women and to ensure that students receive a well-rounded study
of this improvisational dance. |
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