Granville Street comes alive with the culture of India

 

Lapis
Lapis

THE South Asian Family Association is once again bringing the culture of India to the downtown core. As part of the City of Vancouver and Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association’s Granville Social Festival, India Live will highlight cultural activities of the Indian diaspora through music, dance, art and sport.

Sunday, July 19: 12-7 p.m.

700 Granville Street

Here are a few of the things you can look forward to at the festival:

 

On the main stage

* Lapis’ music will be mesmerizing the audience with their cultural hybridity. Their sound is informed by the traditional music of South Asia, Dub, hip hop and electronic music. Comprised of Mohamed Assani, sitarist, and Rup Sidhu, vocalist and electronic musician.

* A musical fiesta brought forth by local artists who will jamming using classical Asian instruments and producing something never heard before: with well known local artists Cassius Khan on tabla and vocals, Vi-An Diep on the Chinese Zheng, Amika Kushwaha on harmonium, Peyman Rouhandeh on sitar and Davinder Namdhari on Dilruba.

* A dance production put forth by local artists showcasing the ‘Dances of India’ – A must-see never before collaboration between Shiamak Davar International, Surrey India Arts, UBC Junoon, Karima Essa, and classical dancers Esha Singh and Anita Sharma that will highlight dances from northern, central and southern India.

HEADLINES INDIA LIVE 2* Local superstar and true entertainer, Luv Randhawa will be performing some of his #1 world music hits from his debut solo album “This Side of Luv” and his new release “Kichaay Selfie Kudi.”

 

Throughout the street:

* Join the desi Martha Stewart and lifestyle blogger Raj Thandhi of Pink Chai Living to create a large scale community Rangoli. (Rangoli is the creation of patterns and designs on the floor using coloured rice, dry flour, coloured sand or flower petals).

* Back by popular demand, the Sikh Motorcycle club will be hosting turban tying demonstrations, and explaining the importance of the turban.

* Learn how to drape your own sari (Indian outfit) from professionals and look elegant when you’re off to another event.

* Be a part of a Bollywood photo-shoot by playing dress-up in South Asian outfits in front of our photo backdrop.

* Get your hands adorned with hena tattoos by local artist Seema Sharma.

* Get lessons and be a pro by participating in Bhangra 101 and Dhol 101 classes brought forth by the South Asian Arts Society.

* Watch the exciting demonstrations of the Indian martial art of Gatka.

* Enjoy the party and dance along to live music from DJ Emenes and DJ Supersingh of the MiB Roadshow.

* Learn how to play cricket on our mini cricket pitch.

* Explore cultural goods through a small vendor marketplace.

* Get some grub at Appetite for Delicious’ food truck.

“We are very excited to provide this unique opportunity to engage in Indian culture up close and personal in both active and passive experiences,” says SAFA board member Nina Sohi-Brar. “We encourage attendees to join in and immerse themselves within the culture and get hands-on with the many workshops and interactive experiences available to them.”