by Namrata Goddeti for BIS Mumbai

“Everything in the universe has a rhythm. Everything dances.”

In keeping with this spirit, Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nasik, hosted a vibrant Dandiya Raas celebration on October 4 and 5, 2024. This event, a tribute to India's rich cultural heritage, brought together the Pre-primary, Primary, and College Sections on the first day, while students from classes V to X gathered on the second day to immerse themselves in the traditional folk dance of Gujarat. Dandiya Raas, along with Garba, forms an integral part of the Navratri festival, which is celebrated across the country. 

Historically, the dance is a symbolic representation of the battle between Goddess Durga and Mahishasur, with the sticks (dandiyas) representing the swords of Durga. This ancient art form, which originated as a devotional dance in honour of Goddess Durga, has since gained immense popularity, and the Don Bosco Dandiya Raas was no exception as the ambience was filled with energy, joy, and vibrant participation.

Under the able guidance of Principal Fr Rixson, the school was transformed into a colourful venue, reflecting the festive spirit of Navratri. The organizing committee, comprising dedicated teachers and student volunteers, ensured that every detail of the event was meticulously planned, making the celebration an unforgettable experience. Fr Rixson took a personal interest in ensuring the success of the event, actively overseeing preparations and ensuring that every student enjoyed their participation. He, along with the teachers, supervised various aspects of the event to ensure everything ran smoothly, from performances to logistics. 

The event commenced at 6 p.m. on both days, with students arriving in colourful, traditional attire. Weeks of preparation and training culminated in a series of energetic Dandiya Raas performances with students showcasing their talents. A standout moment of the evening was the community Dandiya dance, where students, teachers, and parents joined together, dancing enthusiastically to the rhythmic beats of Dandiya music.

In addition to the lively dances, prizes were awarded in various categories, such as Best Dance, Best Costume, Most Energetic Performance, and Best Group Dance, with distinctions made for both parent and children participants. The festive atmosphere was further enriched by stalls offering traditional snacks and sweets, allowing everyone to savour the authentic flavours of Indian cuisine. 

Teachers played a pivotal role in the success of the event, with each staff member impeccably performing their duties across different sections of the venue, ensuring the smooth functioning of the program.

The objectives of the Dandiya Raas celebration were twofold: to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate diversity within the school community. By fostering a sense of togetherness and encouraging the appreciation of traditional art forms, the event successfully strengthened bonds among students, teachers, and parents.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Principal Fr Rixson, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parents, teachers, students, and everyone involved in bringing the event to life. He commended their tireless enthusiasm and dedication, acknowledging the collective efforts that made this celebration a resounding success. The Dandiya Raas at Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nasik, not only showcased the vibrant culture of India but also reinforced the importance of unity and collaboration within the school community.