Bright colors, beautiful weather, and the scent of foods like Tandori Chicken attracted many Roanokers to Elmwood Park for the Festival of India last Saturday. But this event was not just for observing; there were many opportunities to experience the culture first hand. Garments of all different hues, from lime green to fuchsia, hung on racks waiting to be tried on. A photo booth close by enticed visitors to then capture the day’s experience while dressed up in their elegant attire.
An exhibition booth featured facts about India, while henna and jewelry booths lined the back perimeter of the park. For a few dollars, visitors could have an intricate henna tattoo drawn on their hand, arm, or wrist.
Then came the dancing. All four regions of India were represented in the dances (north, south, east, west), whose differences were explained before each performance. Familiar with the song “Jai Ho?” It originated from the movie ‘Slumdog Millionaire,’ which was filmed in India. At the end of each individual performance, all four groups came together to perform this dance.
The many wonders of India and its people were enjoyed by all!
By Jessica Dodds info@theroano.wwwmi3-ss14.a2hosted.com