In partnership with Seattle University, Consulate General of India in Seattle, an inaugural ceremony to commence the First India Culture Week (ICW) celebrations at Seattle University was hosted on 12 November 2024.
The ICW celebrations spread over 12- 14 November, showcase to students of Seattle University an immersive experience on India, focusing through a unique photo exhibit the diversity of Indian states, a cultural dance performance bringing together dance forms from various regions of India, an Indian Food Festival, a specially curated session on Yoga, a workshop on Indian Heritage Arts : with focus on Madhubani art forms, a session on wellness and holistic wellbeing, and, the unveiling of an “India Corner” – a selection of 100 books focusing on the arts, heritage and culture of India. These books have been gifted by the Indian Consulate to Seattle University’s Library.
The inaugural ceremony was jointly addressed by President of Seattle University (SU), Mr. Eduardo M Penalver and the Consul General of India in Seattle, and attended by a large number of students, along with eminent members of the Indian American diaspora. It also included sharing of experiences by Mr. Tim Durkan, a leading Seattle photographer, and Ms. Linda Lowry, Seattle Based Journalist, about their recent visit to India in October, wherein they had participated in a two-week familiarisation program.
A specially curated photo exhibit, “India through Tim’s Eyes” featuring a set of iconic images from their India visit was also put on display for viewing by the participating audiences. In addition, all participants were also witness to an enthralling opening dance performance, “NATYAM: A DANCE MOSAIC OF BHARAT” that brought together leading regional dance forms from India by Seattle based local artists. The inaugural celebration culminated to an Indian Food Festival wherein cuisines of different states of India were provided and would be available for tasting at the Seattle University canteen.
The schedule of events for India Culture Week is placed below. The ICW aims to promote a better understanding of contemporary India amongst Seattle University students. The events would aim to provide them an interactive platform to engage with leading artists through lec-dems and workshops that help explain the richness and diversity of the Incredible India experience. (12 November 2024, Seattle)
