Kalakunj, a centre for South Asian performing arts, has been awarded the grant for their exciting project The Story of Shiva. The project will explore the South Asian symbolism and art-form of Shiva Nataraja – Lord of Dance, an element of Indian mythology.

All elements of classical Indian dance reflect Shiva Nataraja in some way and is often referred to at India inspired music and dance events in the UK, but many people are unaware of the origins or rich heritage surrounding the culturally significant symbol known as Lord of Dance. Shiva Nataraja symbolises the rhythm and harmony of life, which is relevant to all cultures irrespective of the source of origin. His dancing posture, with his left foot elegantly raised is the personification of the triumph over illusion and ignorance.

The project will include exploratory visits to the Victoria & Albert and British Museums and multi-activity performing arts related workshops and seminars. A DVD and booklet will also be produced as part of the project.

Kalakunj works towards increasing the scope for South Asian heritage through performance, education, training and community initiatives and their project aims to contribute to the understanding of the heritage associated with the symbol of Shiva Nataraja, as used in Indian art and culture, and identify its relevance in daily life.

Commenting on the award, Ananya Chatterjee said: “It is wonderful news that we have been awarded this grant and we are ready to get started. We are all really excited about telling other people about our findings and sharing our heritage and history with them.”

Stuart McLeod, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South East England, said: “Heritage means such different things to different people and the Story of Shiva project is an excellent example of the unique heritage explored by projects funded through our Sharing Heritage programme. We’re pleased to support this project as it embarks on a journey of discovery to understand and celebrate this important part of Indian mythology and its place in modern culture.”

Notes to editors

About Kalakunj (Centre for Performing Arts)

Kalakunj, set up in 2008, aims to encourage people’s support for traditional art forms from South Asia in Reading, Berkshire, UK. The centre works towards increasing the scope for South Asian heritage through performance, education, training and community initiatives, addressing training needs to ensure high quality of artistic development and inducing new enthusiasm and energy to promote Indian classical dance and music within the mainstream of arts and heritage in the region and beyond. For more information, visit the Kalakunj website.

Further information

For more information contact Ananya Chatterjee at Kalakunj on 07717 436 720 or at anachat_1999@yahoo.com.