In what is to be an inaugural compilation of cultural extravaganza, WomenNow and Zee TV have partnered up to present India Day, a celebration of India’s rich culture, heritage and community through music, dance, art, and fashion. The daylong festivities will include classical dances, instrumental and vocal performances, haute couture fashion shows, stand up comedy, and the first ever Ms. WomenNow Pageant.
“The celebrations will showcase the triumphs of India, a vast nation of rich history and culture, yet modern and diverse, amongst not only the diaspora but with other communities [that] will bring a paradigm shift in understanding our motherland,” according to Ena Sarkar, President, CEO and Executive Producer of WomenNow.
Music will fill the air, thanks to Mahesh Kale, Priya Gandhi, Nitya Bayya, and Raj Sahal. There will be eleven dance groups representing all the regions of India performing seven dance segments. The classical dance performances will represent various Indian traditions from throughout the country, including Ras Lila from Manipur, Giddh, and Bhangra from Punjab, Garba and Dandiya from Gujarat, Kathak from the Lucknow Gharana, Ghumar and Jhumar from Rajasthan, Kathakali from Kerala, and contemporary fusion dance. Bay Area professional dance organizations will be involved in making it all come to life, including Chhandam, Gurus, Smaran, X3 Productions, Dhol Rhythms, Chandreyee Mukherjee and Company, and the Ameya Groups Dance Company. Performers will mingle with the audience members to discuss their art forms.
There will be something to satiate all of the senses at India Day, and to ensure that the palate is not left wanting, Chef Restaurateur, Vijay Vashist of Amber India Restaurant will be on hand for cooking demonstrations.
Attendees will also have a chance to feast their eyes on the rich visual display of color and texture during the Fashion Show, which will feature Bay Area designers Rabani and Rakha, Amita Bal, Mmagia Chona Pike and other haute couture stockists. Also participating in the show are local businesses Nalli Silks, Vama Designs, Celebrations Jewelery, Rang, and CBazar. Models will showcase different wedding dresses and saris from different regions, as well as costumes that are uniquely designed from each state and based on the climate of particular regions.
The day’s events will culminate at 7:30 p.m. onwards in the luxurious Hotel Valencia, where 25 beautiful contestants will be competing in a glamorous pageantry amid live pulsating entertainment. The winner will be crowned the first Ms. WomenNow.
Event coordinators anticipate an enthusiastic attendance of at least 10,000. India Day will provide the perfect platform for cultural expression and pride. Sarkar stated, “We’re creating opportunities for many organizations (singers, dancers, contestants) to showcase [their talents] and [gain exposure].
“WomenNow’s objective is to build confidence in women and teens, and “[there will be a] large community on stage and [a] larger community to support and learn and watch and be a part of the celebration,” she added.
Championed by San Jose City Council Member Ash Kalra, India Day is also sponsored by Yupp TV, Travelpod, UST Global, Radio Zindagi, Indian Roots, India.com, Bears for Humanity, Ultimate Lounge, Building Kids School.
October 4, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Santana Row, 377 Santana Row, San Jose. Ms. WomenNow at 7:30 p.m., Hotel Valencia.