Arpan

ARPAN

ARPAN is a performing arts organization that is dedicated to the promotion of Folk and Classical traditions of India. This includes dance, music, folklore, traditions and values. It strives to bring together like minded artistes who value the traditions passed down through the ages unadulterated by the vagaries of the modern world. We try to stay away from 'filmi' 'techno' interpretations of any art form that we perform.

The word ARPAN in Sanskrit means to present or to offer in dedication. Our efforts are an offering (Arpan) to the entire community in Seattle, WA right from the inner depths of a diverse cultural melting pot that is India.

The seeds of ARPAN started as early as November 2002. It was triggered by the ambient state of Indian classical and folk dance traditions here in Washington. Having recently moved from India, I was on the lookout for venues where I could nourish and grow my art form. After two years, I realized that I needed to do something. I needed to convey what India meant to me. I needed to reach out and communicate how dance is integrated into the lives of people in India. How it transcends from the mundane to the spiritual. How it is inextricably linked to the air that each one of us breathe as we grow up in the vibrant soil of India.

And so ARPAN was born. An offering. An outpouring of the essence of rhythm in joy across continents. An exposition of what it means to dance the various folk dances from different states in India. Feel the joys and aspirations of the simple village folk. An offering to the artists of yesteryears who laid the foundations of classical art forms that are so unique to India. That have their roots in scripture as old as 2000 yrs.

This is ARPAN's first attempt to bring an India that is close to my heart not just as a dancer but as a daughter of the soil that has nourished me with dance, music, joy, love, compassion and strength.

A humble offering to the city of Seattle.