May 24, 2017

Triveni Dance Ensemble Hosts Benefit Performance for Pratham

 

In April, the Triveni Dance Ensemble gave two sold-out performances at the Boston University Dance Theater to raise funds for Pratham and increase awareness about child illiteracy in India.

Set to Indian classical as well as fusion music, the inspired renditions of “Devi, the Goddess” captivated the packed auditorium with percussive footwork, sensual movement and nuanced storytelling. In each piece, dancers portrayed a different aspect of the Indian goddess: Saraswati (patron of knowledge and the arts), Lakshmi (bestower of fortune), Parvati (embodiment of love and devotion), Varshini (benefactor of rain), and Bhairavi or Kali (fierce warrior).

“For the past 30 years Triveni has selected a worthy charity to raise funds for and also bring awareness of their work in India,” explained Neena Gulati, Triveni School of Indian Classical Dance’s founder and director, “This year we were delighted to work with Pratham because this organization definitely does amazing work and we were happy to help in a small way. Wish them all the best in their efforts to educate the underprivileged children in India.”

Priyanka Subash, one of the producers (and a featured performer), also expressed her delight in being able to take part in the benefit, which raised $4,000: “It was both a thrilling and gratifying experience to raise funds for Pratham. I am amazed by the social impact that Pratham has in empowering children and youth and felt honored that we could help spread awareness of the mission of this tremendous organization.”

Prior to the start of the concert, former Pratham project manager Snigdha Gupta introduced the organization and spoke about our flagship literacy program, Read India, which is revolutionizing learning for the underprivileged children in India.

Learn more about Pratham’s ground breaking literacy and learning programs. Photo courtesy Rahul Rathi.