Thanks to all who turned out for the University of Mary Washington’s Multicultural Festival. After a hiatus of two years, we were eager to hit the stage again and audience enthusiasm was as energetic as the dance performances!
Category: Hinduism
Pandit ji Birju Maharaj Passes
The foremost master of classical Indian Kathak dance, Pandit ji Birju Maharaj, passed away on January 17, 2022. He gave the world a unique glimpse of master storytelling through dance with skill, finesse, and beauty. Born into the most prestigious family of Kathak artists – Shambhu Maharaj, Lachhu Maharaj, and Acchan Maharaj – he was… Continue reading Pandit ji Birju Maharaj Passes
The Gau: Portable Sacred Space of the Himalayas
Vintage Himalayan jewelry is in a class by itself. It has flourished in land-locked societies, in middle hill villages, on steep and stark plateaus, on the Earth’s highest peaks, and in green and fertile flatland. It has been traded and bartered, passed down and upcycled. Craftsmanship skills are passed from generation to generation, but this… Continue reading The Gau: Portable Sacred Space of the Himalayas
Nepal’s Tihar in a Nutshell
Tihar is a five day festival celebrated in Nepal. The first day is dedicated to the crow (or kaag) who is seen as the messenger of death. The second day focuses on the dog (or kukur). Dogs are believed to lead the souls of the dead to the underworld. They are also honored as trusted… Continue reading Nepal’s Tihar in a Nutshell
Dashain Aayo!
It’s holiday time again in Nepal! Navaratri has begun and people are on the move to rejoin their families and friends for the largest Hindu festival of the year. Bus tickets have sold out and local bazaars are jammed with enthusiastic holiday shoppers looking for traditional gifts of clothing and accessories for their loved ones.… Continue reading Dashain Aayo!