Kalasangama-Union by art (The untold story of the silk road)

Who we are

We are a small team of Bharatanatyam dancers and Chinese classical dancers. I am the founder of the team, and our goal is to bridge cultural gaps between India and China, as well as raise awareness of the inseparable connections between the two cultures through history and classical dances of both cultures.

Project theme and idea

Kalasangama means union by art, and we want to dive into the interconnections of India and China by exploring Dunhuang Buddhist cave on the Silk Road and how Buddhism from India ultimately influenced the cave paintings and the Dunhuang dance that's been reconstructed later on.

Inspirations behind the story

I am an Indian classical dance practitioner of Chinese origin and have grown up in China and have trained and performed in India. I have a deep understanding of both cultures, and from my many temple visits and studying of Sanskrit and Indian culture, I have been able to see many similarities and linkages which people are unaware of. The two cultures were very much connected in ancient times but separated in the present days. However, the deeply rooted Buddhist culture and symbolism are still very strong in present-day China. My goal is to present the linkages by going down the history line and dive into how Buddhism from India ultimately influenced China and by showcasing 3 styles of Indian classical dances and Chinese classical dance to reveal the unbreakable linkages of the two cultures.

How will your funding help:

Cost Break Down:

$3000-$6000

Music Composition, Musician fees and Recording studio

$1000-$2000

Choreographer and dancer fees

$1000-$2000

Tech rehearsal and performance venue

$600-$900

Light design and sound tech

$200

Marketing and promotional materials

$500

Props etc

Every donation, small or big, will make a difference. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Sincerely

Srija Wang

Artistic Director of Nrityaarpana School of Bharatanatyam