Reflections: Conversations in Dance and Culture

In this episode, Mesma Belsaré speaks about her journey across dance, painting, and curation, and how these practices shape her engagement with social justice. Through personal reflection, she considers what social justice means to her and how it shapes her work. Key topics Social justice as a personal and artistic act The role of the body in artistic expression and justice Categories and identity...

In this engaging interview, Swati Tiwari, founder of Boston Bollywood, shares her inspiring journey from computer science to dance entrepreneurship. Discover how she built an inclusive community that celebrates Indian dance forms, breaks down barriers, and fosters social justice through arts. Key topics Journey from computer science to dance entrepreneurship Building an inclusive community in Bost...

In this episode, Wendy Jehlen, Creative Director of Anikaya, and Anuarite Gikonyo, cultural practitioner and writer, reflect on art as a tool for connection and change. Drawing from The Conference of the Birds and their experiences of cultural exchange, they explore how movement, story, and travel foster empathy and awareness. Takeaways The arts can foster empathy and understanding across cultures...

In this episode of Sarang Arts for Social Justice, host Anita Vallabh engages with artists and researchers from the Asim Kala initiative, exploring how dance serves as a powerful medium for addressing healthcare inequities and social justice. The conversation delves into the origins of Asim Kala, the personal journeys of its members, and the importance of storytelling in both dance and medicine. T...

In this episode of Reflections from Global Indian Artists , host Anita Vallabh engages with curators Shriya Srinivasan and Dr. Joshua George about the upcoming Intersections Indian Dance Conference. The conversation explores their unique backgrounds in science and dance, the challenges faced by diaspora artists, and the importance of community and collaboration in the arts. They discuss the inters...

In this episode of Sarang Arts for Social Justice, host Anita Vallabh and co-host Manasa Jayanthi engage with Rohit Bhambi, the founder of Boston Bhangra. They discuss the evolution of Boston Bhangra as a community initiative, its impact on cultural identity, and the importance of inclusivity and social justice in the arts. Rohit shares insights into the challenges of funding and sustainability, t...

In this episode  Dr. Shriya Srinivasan  and Dr. Joshua George share the thought process behind curating Intersections: Indian Dance conference, the challenges they faced  and what they aspire  to achieve.