High on tradition

Draped in a beautiful sari, with her signature hairdo and a red bindi on her forehead, the American Odissi dancer Sharon Lowen reverberated positivity as she entered the studio of All India Radio.

 The General Overseas Service (GOS) of External Services Division (ESD), All India Radio (AIR) featured the eminent classical dancer, Sharon Lowen in a heart-to-heart conversation with students and youth from different universities, colleges, schools and esteemed guests in the programme ‘Welcome to Studio-One’ recently in the national Capital. 

She is a learned dance practitioner who studied the modern Western dance, ballet and then Manipuri, Mayurbhanj Chhau and Odissi both in theory and practice. Highlighting the purpose of organising such an event, Station Director, Amlanjyoti Mazumdar said, “The main aim of organising the programme is to provide a golden opportunity to the youth to interact with the invited celebs and to achieve inspiration.” 

The renowned Odissi danseuse has assimilated and internalized Indian art and culture to the extent that she is more Indian than many of us. During the last 25 years, she has brought out the exquisite grace of Odissi through her performances in India and abroad. 

During the conversation with prominent journalist, Vickram Bahl, Lowen shared her initiatives and dedications in promoting the traditional Indian performing arts globally. She shared the experiences and challenges she faced during the initial periods of her journey to success.

 “Why do we always compare Indian classical with Western forms? Why don’t we compare Indian classical dance forms among each other...” questions Sharon Lowen when asked about appreciating or having a creative lens towards various art forms. “Knowing every form of art isn’t possible but having an understanding of some of the art forms is important to be able to appreciate or criticize them in a better way. People must come forward and take initiative towards understanding various art forms,” comments Sharon.

Lowen also urged parents to play a pivotal role in inculcating the moral values and teaching their children about the rich cultural heritage of India and the vibrant classical dance forms, when asked about her opinion on the younger generation shifting from classical dance forms to western forms.

“Never underestimate yourself or anyone else. Try to reach your highest peak of excellence. Do not do things you are not comfortable doing and never be afraid.

 Fear brings out the worst qualities in a human being,” is what Sharon firmly believes in. The programme will be broadcast on the General Overseas Service on July 3-4. One may visit the website www.airworldservice.org for further details.