Just a month ago I had the marvellous experience of celebrating Diwali, India's festival of lights. I attended a student run event and it introduced me to the strength of a culture as I witnessed second and third generations fully embracing their traditional heritage.
Every colour of the rainbow was well represented in saris and suits. The visual design stimulation of the night was able to satisfy any appetite. The room filled with flawless skin, never-ending lashes and prominent features only to be complimented by the bright colours of the delicate materials that enhanced each movement. The modesty in the shape of traditional attire was contrasted with exquisite embellishments and the pairing of 4 inch heels that showcased the modernism and youthful adaptations of a younger generation.
The entertainment for the evening was spectacular. The dance floor became a stage as four Bhangra dancers took to showcasing their fancy footwork. There was a tremendous shift in energy when the Bollywood/Western mixes entered the atmosphere. The sense of community was enough to make it feel like Christmas morning with your family. The dancers fed off of the cheers and shouts of the crowd and the enthusiasm was rewarded by the dazzling heights of each leap and speed of each turn. A thrilling dance battle ensued between dancer alumni and the current performers – the energy continued to incline as the females took the stage and the room was graced with elegance.
What happened after felt so surreal: the lights dimmed and beams of colourful rays bounced from the walls. The dancers motioned to the crowd and before you could blink the dance floor was jam-packed with smiling faces, dancing, and what seemed to be Bollywood girl groups and boy bands all singing the chorus to that song I didn’t quite know.It was amazing!
Amongst the crowd I paused and took a moment to soak in everything around me. I knew then that I was partaking in a part of a tradition like no other, the spirit of Diwali gave me a very particular gift, in a crowded dance floor, while embracing an unfamiliar culture I felt very special as I just had a glimpse of one of the world’s most traditional celebrations.
On a style note - The most significant accessories I noticed were the jewelled head pieces that hung from the foreheads of a few girls. This traditional Tikka has been inspiration to many accessory makers and wearers. Having never been to India, one can still feel like an Indian Princess which Karl Lagerfeld took inspiration from, adding even more luxury to his Pre-Fall 2012 Chanel collection. Diloveli I'd say!
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