Atlanta, GA, April 5, 2024: In an explosion of color, music, and dance, the North GA Indian Dance Festival 2024 at West Forsyth High School became the heartbeat of Cumming, Georgia, attracting nearly 600 attendees.
The event was more than a festival; it was a celebration of the ancient and vibrant tradition of Indian dance, showcasing a cultural odyssey spanning nearly 2300 years of history. The festival featured a dazzling array of performances from renowned dance companies such as the Soorya Ensemble Los Angeles and Atlanta, Rudram Dance Company Florida, Darshini Natyalaya ATL, and Bharata Darshana ATL, each adding their unique thread to the rich tapestry of this cultural masterpiece. Each performance was meant to transport the audience through time, from the historical depths of the Natya Shastra to the spirited present day, blending the ancient with the contemporary in a display of artistry and passion.
This performance was funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and Georgia Council for the Arts.
Reflecting on the event’s success and its warm embrace of Indian culture in the heart of Georgia, State Representative Todd Jones expressed his admiration and support: “Witnessing the North GA Indian Dance Fest flourish in Cumming has been an extraordinary experience. It’s not just about the mesmerizing performances; it’s a profound dialogue of cultures, a bridge connecting Georgia and India in the past and present. I am honored to have shared this day with such a unique and heartfelt community.”
Guru Sushma Mohan, the artistic director of the Soorya Foundation for Performing Arts, shared her thoughts on the festival’s impact: “The North GA Indian Dance Fest is more than an event; it’s a beacon for cultural preservation and community unity. Bringing the story of Indian tradition alive in Cumming, witnessing the community’s engagement, and seeing the tales of our culture unfold through dance has been incredibly fulfilling. We are dedicated to keeping this beautiful tradition vibrant and accessible. I invite everyone to join us next year and be part of this enriching cultural journey.”
The festival not only celebrated the deep heritage of Indian dance but also served as a platform for community connection, cultural intertwining, and educational outreach. It was a reminder of the enduring legacy of India’s history and traditions, still lively and meaningful in the U.S. today.
GA gurus Sasikala Penumarthi, Padmaja Kelam, Gayatri Seshadri, and Soujanya Madhusudhan were honored at the event along with special guest artist Guru Tara Priyadarshini from Tampa.
“The Soorya Foundation extends its sincerest gratitude to all attendees, performers, and supporters for their roles in making this year’s festival a resounding success,” said Guru Sushma Mohan. “The foundation looks forward to welcoming even more participants in the coming years, continuing to weave the fabric of cultural heritage into the community of Cumming and beyond.
Founded in Los Angeles under the guidance of Guru Sushma Mohan, the Soorya Foundation for Performing Arts is a beacon of tradition and innovation in the performing arts. With a focus on dance and music festivals, performances, and educational programs, the foundation strives to celebrate and disseminate the rich tapestry of Indian classical dance and music. Your support and participation help ensure that these art forms thrive for generations to come.
