TRINIDAD, September 10, 2024 (Trinidad Express): Youths play a crucial role in maintaining culture by acting as bridges between their ancestral heritage and contemporary society. They are instrumental in preserving traditions, languages and values through active participation in cultural events, religious practices and community organizations. By embracing and promoting their cultural identity, young members of the diaspora ensure the continuity of Indian customs and practices while also adapting them to fit their new environments. The 217th Zoom Thought Leader’s Public Forum was held recently on the topic of “Youths Maintaining Culture in the Indian Diaspora”. The public meeting was hosted by the Indo-Caribbean Cultural Centre (ICC).


One of the forums many featured presenters was Vishal Surujdeo, 16, who has been passionate about music for seven years and enjoys playing the dholak, harmonium and dhantal, and who loves to sing; his dedication to his craft helped him become a well-rounded musician; “At a very young age I was exposed to local classical music on the radio, and I took a liking towards this genre of music. Once you have well-trained gurus, it is very easy to pursue this passion. They pass down their knowledge and take the time to facilitate practice so that we master, appreciate and conserve the art,” says Surujdeo. Also participating was Aariti Rampersad, 17, trained in Bharatnatyam, folk, film and chutney-style dances. She has been dancing with the Paramjyoti School of Dance for eight years and feels a profoundly fulfilling connection to Indian culture. “Generally, the people we surround ourselves with or interact with are very supportive and interested in what we do. Despite uploading our performances with an artform that is not usually sought out, we have not experienced any negative reviews on social media. The reception is wonderful,” she says.

More at source.
https://trinidadexpress.com/features/local/youths-bridging-ancestral-and-modern-indian-heritage/article_edd92164-6fd4-11ef-824c-e7b7fa6a2460.html

See the unedited recording of the program: (https://shorturl.at/hI9LE)

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