A Day Full Of Music
Saturday was one of those days that just felt right—from sunrise to curtain call. It was one of those rare moments when your soul feels full, like every version of you—past, present, and evolving—was held in harmony for a day.
In the morning, I had a workshop with GatorNatyam, where we were joined by two incredibly talented friends—Akshay on the Mridangam and Manasi on the Kanjira. The energy in the room was joyful, collaborative, and filled with rhythm. Dancing to live classical percussion? There’s truly nothing like it.
We laughed, we experimented, we got lost in the beats and the movements—and for a moment, it felt like everything around us just aligned. I hope Akshay and Manasi had as much fun as I did. It meant so much to have friends who not only support what I love, but share in it.
Later that evening came our Awaaz Showcase, and once again, I found myself surrounded by music. Different styles, different instruments, different voices—but the same magic. The kind that makes you stop and realize: Wow. I get to be part of this.
If there’s one thing I have unwavering passion for in this life, it’s dance.
From my first steps to running into Ammamma’s arms in her dance class, this art form has carried me through life. For those who may not know, I’ve been learning Indian Classical Dance for as long as I can remember. I can’t quite pinpoint when it began—but I know when I truly fell in love with it.
It was when I needed it the most.
After losing my maternal grandmother—my teacher, my mother’s teacher—I felt like a part of me had gone quiet. But returning to the music that shaped us brought me back to myself. The sounds, the rhythm, the feeling of movement tied to something greater than me… that’s where I found my grounding again.
Joining Awaaz deepened that connection.
It taught me to appreciate Indian Classical Music in ways I never had before. It reminded me that preserving culture doesn’t have to feel like a burden—it can be joyful, collaborative, healing.
Being surrounded by people who understand the why behind the art, who feel the same pull toward tradition and innovation, has been nothing short of beautiful.
