St. John’s University Chapter
Dearest Esteemed Guests,
Namaste, Sat Sri Akal, Jai Sri Krishna! On behalf of the Hindu Student’s Council of St. John’s University, I would like to welcome you to Rangoli ’99, our first annual cultural show. It is our hope and prayer that you find this event both entertaining, as well as enlightening.
Tonite’s show has two themes. First, the show has been named "Rangoli." In traditional Indian culture, a rangoli is a design drawn during festival times to create an auspicious and beautiful atmosphere. The designs are drawn on the ground, symbolizing our deep and sacred connection to Mother Earth. Intricate geometric shapes, taken from the ancient Vedic scriptures, are painstakingly created in order to represent spiritual potencies. Bright and vibrant colours are used to depict the dynamic spirit in which the timeless faith is kept alive from one generation to the next.
The charm of the Rangoli design, however, is found in how the distinct and contrasting colours come together to form one unified beautiful image. Each colour maintains its individuality, yet lends itself to the whole, as well. With this idea – the celebrating of differences coming together in unity – in mind, we have chosen "a cultural journey through India" as our second theme for tonite’s show. India is a nation composed of vibrant and distinct peoples. Each region has its own style of song, dance, fashion, and unique way of celebrating Holi. Like the rangoli, India too is a celebration of differences in unity.
Finally, at the Hindu Student’s Council, we encourage all youth to become active in learning more about the rich Hindu culture and tradition. Part of that tradition is acting in a selfless and virtuous way. We are pleased to present all the proceeds from tonite’s event to the India Development Relief Fund, a charitable organization dedicated to the upliftment of all peoples of India.
We hope that you enjoy the show, and humbly ask that you overlook our imperfections.
Om Tat Sat !!!
(Vineet Chander)
Secretary, Hindu Student’s Council, St. John’s University