Combining post-modern choreographic structures and classical Indian dance vocabularies, "Ganga...Life as a River" stunningly illustrates how experimentation can be rooted in and flow organically out of so-called "traditional" dance. The highly accomplished dancing was presented in a way that managed to be both accessible and engaging to a Western audience while resisting the frames of the "authentic," the "ethnic," and the "exotic."
Anthea Kraut, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Dept. of Dance,
U of California, Riverside, CA

For the non-Indian audience members it was "my favorite production, more accessible because there was room for interpretation."
Alison Paige Student, UCLA Business School, Los Angeles, CA

It was experimental without being abstract and unintelligible.
Roberto Lewis, Camera Assistant, Los Angeles, CA

Thank you for the marvelous concert. We enjoyed it immensely. The Bhimpalas Tarana at the end has long been one of my favorites and it was wonderful to see what you have done with it.
Dr. Robert Garfias, Dept. of Anthropology, U of California, Irvine. CA

The opening dance was such a meditation on life, on slowing down to see and understand, on being aware of each moment and the challenges that slowing down presents to mind and body. It was visually and musically powerful…I also will remember the last dance and the way the dancers moved through space to represent moving in the water. I thought I saw some of the yoga movements I have learned and saw similarities to the progression of the movements. I was fascinated by how traditional and modern elements of movement and music were synthesized.
Lynda Wilson, Teacher, Irvine, CA

I really enjoyed it (esp. the first and last piece). It's interesting because much of it felt like I was watching modern dance even though I could recognize Bharata Natyam movements. I like the last one because I never knew where to look. It was so chaotic with everyone doing their own thing until it all converged at the end.
V Prasad, Film Director, Los Angeles, CA

I just wanted to tell you that all of you were absolutely AMAZING! This was such a treat to watch!! The conception, development, and execution of this brainchild were so impressive and unique. It was so apparent, from the flyers to the programs to the Spoken Word to the presentation that so much time, effort, and thought went into this production by all of you. The costumes were honestly one of my favorite aspects because they complemented the choreography and concept so wonderfully. Congratulations!
Shivani Reddy, Senior, Stanford University, Member, Arpana Dance Company

'Ganga…Life as a river' was a unique experience for me. I have attended lots of Indian classical performances and this was not at all in that "typical traditional dance" category. From dance movements to costumes, everything was spectacular. Some of my classmates from Cal State, Fullerton attended the program on the approval of my professor. They were just stunned. The music, the artists, and the whole 'behind the scene' team demonstrated the expertise and hard work behind Ganga. I must say who ever likes dancing or music even a little bit, should see Ganga.
Hina Shah, Homemaker/Student and Arpana parent, Irvine, CA

This was my first recital here in US. I had seen quite a few traditional performances in India by great performers like Padma Subramanian, Chitra Visweswaran etc. So when I bought the tickets I had just one thing on my mind - to listen to what my daughter had sung for the program and see the same type of traditional performance. But let me tell you, I was blown away. The opening was awesome and so, was the rest of the show. I just sat there mesmerized for the entire show what a performance by all the artists. Truly a great performance by great artists! An out-of-the-box kind thinking definitely reflects in your show.
Namrata Nadig, Homemaker, Irvine, CA

Ganga was poignant, soulful, universal, heartbreaking and magnificent. You are truly wonderful to treat the audience to timeless revelations in such an elegant manner with sumptuous lighting. Wishing you many more performances,
Amy Ellison, Arts Program coordinator, San Bernardino School District