BAVINA SOOKDEO
“Being able to promote and contribute to the preservation of Indian culture through dance, fills me with a profound sense of honour to play a part in sharing the richness and beauty of Indian traditions with others,” says dancer Simran Sohan.
Simran and her mother, Reshma, also a dancer, spoke to the Newsday about their dedication, cultural pride and deep-rooted passion for the art of Indian dance.
Simran, 20, from Siparia, has been been dancing since childhood. Growing up with her mother as her dance teacher, almost as soon as she could walk, she began dancing. She recalls being carried to her mother’s classes and trying to mimic the movements, instinctively drawn to the rhythms.
“As I grew older, my playful attempts at dance evolved into a more serious pursuit. I naturally transitioned into becoming one of my mother’s students, eager to learn and absorb everything I could about this beautiful artform,” she said.
Her first stage performance at six marked the beginning of her dance journey. Simran was captivated by the fusion of culture and her mother’s teachings, inspiring her to pursue dance seriously.
The experience and excitement of dressing up in the beautiful costumes further inspired this student who is also is doing a degree in psychology at the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT).
She specialises in three distinct styles of Indian dance: film, folk (specifically garba), and semi-classical. She said each style holds a special place in Indian culture, telling stories, celebrating traditions, and expressing the beauty and diversity of heritage. Film dance, vibrant and energetic, is a staple of Bollywood.
[caption id="attachment_1086048" align="alignnone" width="826"] Simran Sohan, who was taught dance by her mother, was captivated by the fusion of culture and her mother’s teachings, inspiring her to pursue dance seriously. -[/caption]
Garba, originating from Gujarat, is joyful and celebratory, while semi-classical dance combines elements of classical, folk, and contemporary forms, allowing for artistic expression that bridges tradition and innovation.
Reshma, 46, has been a dance teacher for over 30 years and a dancer for 36 years.
She began teaching at a friend’s home in Rock Road, Penal and went on to open Reshma’s School of Dance in Charlo Village, Penal, and other locations. Her students have participated in numerous competitions and performances, showcasing their talent at the Divali Nagar and Indian Arrival celebrations.
Reshma’s dance tutor was Devika Siewsankar of the Saraswati Vandana Dance Group, Debe, who taught her Bollywood, semi-classical and folk dance.
Dr Ashook Chakravartee from India, a teacher at the Gandhi Institute of Indian Culture, also taught her kathak.
The bond between Reshma and Simran intertwines the roles of teacher, mentor, and parent, allowing for personalised and effective instruction. This dynamic has created a strong sense of trust and comfort, enabling Simram to explore and express her
