On Saturday, October 24, 2020, Surati for Performing Arts hosted their 2nd Annual Fall Colors Walk and Navratri Celebration. This kid-friendly event actively and safely brought together dozens of people from diverse communities to celebrate Jersey City as “the country’s most vibrant Indian neighborhood” (Brad Japhe, CNN Travel). Participants met at City Hall and received a one hour, all-levels Vinyasa yoga class from Chilltown Yoga. Afterwards, they walked along the Hudson River with dhol drummers and throwing color. The walk ended at Raaz and Cosi restaurants. There guests had the opportunity to learn Dandia dances and watch mini performances.
The Fall Colors Walk is a Holi Hai celebration. Holi is an ancient Indian tradition, with the first mentions of it dating back to a 4th century poem. Though Holi has its roots in Indian mythology, Surati celebrates it as a strictly secular event, encouraging participation from all cultures and ethnicities. Holi is also a great equalizer in India, with rules of caste and creed briefly forgotten. Originally a way to present empowering stories of good over evil, Holi has become a more general celebration of spring, new beginnings, brotherhood and diversity.
Surati For Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) organization that educates and enriches
communities through dance, music, and theatre, while also promoting Indian art and culture.
Based in Jersey City, New Jersey, Surati’s team of professional dancers, musicians and
instructors perform and instruct at corporate functions, fundraisers, and cultural events
throughout the U.S. and abroad.
jerseycityfyi 