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"My name is Carrie Hosein. I am
12 years old and live in Longdenville, Trinidad. I am an Indian Cultural
Dancer.
Please tell us about Indian cultural Dance. Is Indian
dance a specialty?
In India, dance and pervade all aspects of life
and bring colour, joy and gaiety to a number of events and ceremonies. In
fact, dance and music are tied inextricably to festivity of any kind. The
fascination for Indian dance all over the world is indicative of the
deep-felt need to use the human body to express and celebrate the great
universal truths. Indian dance does just that in a heightened, reverential
form. Also, since dance is physical and visual, it illuminates India's
culture in a direct manner, playing on the sensibilities of the onlooker.
Thus, those who are attracted to India will find the idiom of dance the
best introduction to India's rich ethos and traditions.
Which
dance form do you specialize in? Film dance This is a mixture of classical
and folk dance which has evolved into a semi-classical form. It is danced
for pleasure, and is a vital element in most Hindi films.
Using the
body as a medium of communication, the expression of dance is perhaps the
most intricate and developed, yet easily understood art form
The dance
and music are vibrant and instructive. During the drama the dancers do not
speak, but hand movements known as 'Mudra' and mime are so varied as to
constitute a complete sign language. The movements are explosive,
accompanied by an incessant drumming that begins before the performance
and lasts throughout the drama.
How did Indian dancing come to the
Caribbean?
East Indian customs and practices came to the Caribbean with
the arrival of Indian bonded or indentured servants who were brought here
by the British Colonial Government to replace the Black slaves after
emancipation.
Is it difficult to learn to Indian Dance?
No,
you start off with very simple movements and they become more complex as
you progress, but it takes alot of practice to make the movements look
graceful.
Can you say a few words of encouragement to any other
kids out there who might like to learn to dance? Behind every work of art-
every note of music- every beat of dance- are people, just like you.
People who strive relentlessly to foster and preserve a rich heritage.
Through dance we share history, culture, peace & happiness, as well as
entertain." |
