Aurohamsadwani

This programme does not only encourage classical dance and music among children from Auroville it also embraces children from our neighbouring villages. It allows children in rural areas (with or without means) to discover this field which is normally not possible. The students get the opportunity to show their talent while they are performing in programmes live, on television and the radio.

Learning to play an instrument class includes veena (25 students), flute (3 students), and keyboard (6 students). And training in vocal Carnatic class has 25 students. People approach us for classes on Miruthangam, Tabla and Drums. Our main aim is to take the classical art forms to the rural areas and allow our young generation to learn our traditional music and dance.

Our team comprises children aged 5 to 15 years and 10 adults.  We  hope to promote student artist exchange programmes with other institutions so that the young generation widen their exposure  to the classical art forms.

AuroHamsadwani continues to support all the kids through donations from Project Coordination Group and SAIIER and through individual and parental support.

The Bharat Natayam students give two performances in Bharat Nivas, Auroville, and the Veena students perform in many temples in Puducherry and the Saraswathi temple, Koothanoor. Each veena student gives one solo performance. Each year they learn new songs and ragas. The keyboard students sit for grade exams and receive certificates from Trinity College, England.

This initiative benefits the community overall. The students gain knowledge and ability, while the wider community appreciate the music performances.

Exposure is an important aspect that is achieved from this activity; children are exposed to various scenarios in their artistic journey. They experience music as a new dimension of learning and an integral part of their personal growth.