Continuing a Continuing a Way of LifeWay of Life

Aditi Shah

Being Indian (South Asian) in America

To retain background and culture To embrace their roots Build an identity that includes their

heritage Done in various ways…

Temples

Crucial aspect of Hinduism– Most commonly followed religion

“Today, the Hindu gods and their powerful places of worship in India have been transposed to the West” (Eck 77)

Built in many cities across the nation

Kashi Vishvanatha Temple Flint, Michigan

Vraj

– Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania

– re-creation of lord Krishna’s mythological homeland

Shree Swaminarayan Mandir (BAPS)

Bartlett, Illinois

Inside (BAPS)

Inside (BAPS)

Holidays and Festivals

Coincide with religion Gather mainly in temples for celebration Honor tradition Navratri, Diwali, Bestu Varas, and Holi

– The major ones

Navratri “Nine Nights” honors the Mother Goddess, Durga Dance in celebration

Diwali Festival of lights

– Earthen lamps– fireworks

Holi Spring holiday

Dance Regional

– Bhangra (Punjabi)– Garba-Raas (Navratri)

Classical– Bharat Natyam– Kathakali

Bhangra

Garba-Raas

Bharat Natyam