Devotees and spectators thronged the Providence stadium on Wednesday to enjoy what was described as “an evening of Hindu culture” at Bhajan Deepanjali.
Young and old pushed their way into the stadium and took seats on the damp grass to enjoy live performances by Hindu religious groups and classical Indian dances, bhajans (hymns) and dramas from ancient Hindu religious texts. Indian clothing in brilliant colours and sparkling jewellery enticed the women, while a variety of dishes – each adding its own aroma to the atmosphere – were on offer by various local booths scattered throughout the venue.
The Indian mela
Spectators were greeted with the sound of Indian drumming accompanied by the voices of members of the ISKCON Hare Krsna Movement singing “Hare Krsna, Hare Rama” as they entered the compound. “…We seek spiritual satisfaction… God’s name is food for the soul…” a member of the movement said as patrons moved further into the ground. Clad in traditional Indian wear devotees played classical instruments as their peers joined in the singing and dancing in a blend of religion and culture.
Despite the loose stones scattered throughout the venue’s sand floor, which threatened to send several women sprawling and caused discomfort to those wearing open-toed sandals; a joyful atmosphere ensued as tassa and nagara drummers from mandirs along the East and West Coast Demerara walked beside the crowd. Drumming, a significant element in Hindu celebrations used to announce homecomings, celebrate weddings and even during mourning, pervaded the presentation.
The Brahma Kumaris displayed a number of books and paintings dedicated to meditation for inner peace. One member explained to Stabroek News that meditating aids one in realizing one’s origins, purpose and how to return “home”.
There was also a cluster of stalls at the north end of the compound and several games available lending to the atmosphere of a mini Indian mela. Many sweetmeats and dishes prepared by members of various local mandirs were also on sale at the event. Further, local Indian stores had set up eye-catching booths displaying brightly coloured clothing and jewellery. Prayer materials, statues of gods and goddesses, prayer beads and many other religious and non-religious items were also on sale.
The stage performances
A dramatic piece from The Ramayan was one of the first items on the programme. It was followed by various groups of different ages singing bhajans. A classical dance performed by Pandit Omkar and Prashilla, who choreographed it recalled the famous love story of the Hindu god Krishna and goddess Radha. It depicted the true unity of the male and female as Omkar and Prashilla moved together from their toes right up to the intricate movements of their hands.
A special Carifesta X rhythm was created by the Surinamese group. After singing a number of bhajans they used their traditional Indian musical instruments to play their interpretation of an upbeat Caribbean tune. Around 8 pm the western and northern stands at the stadium were sparsely occupied though a sizeable crowd still occupied the grounds. At that time President Bharrat Jagdeo and Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport Dr Frank Anthony had not yet delivered their presentations. The northern entrance used to access the ground was still crowded as people forced their way into and out of the grounds. Bhajan Deepanjali was well attended and appreciated.
