Most cities Portland's size would die to have just one association dedicated to promoting the culture of India, let alone two. With the advent of Rasika, though, the longtime India-boosters of Kalakendra have company in their crusade to preserve the subcontinent's culture through music and dance. After 13 years, Kalakendra is a well-established cultural force in a metro area populated by more than 5,000 families of Indian heritage, and leaders of the venerable group greeted Rasika's formation with something less than welcoming fanfare. India is a collection of diverse groups of peoples and languages.
People forget that it is a continent as well as a country, just like Europe.
We want to make sure that we tell everyone about who these musicians are and as much about the instrument they are playing. In an American culture that pushes assimilation, the Ramans say, it's important to expose Indian-American kids to the traditions of the old country. We want the best of both worlds for her. While they are quick to note that they appreciate the work Kalakendra has done over the past 13 years, the Ramans point out that most Kalakendra presentations feature North Indian musicians. With this in mind, Rasika is dedicated to bringing performers from all parts of India, especially those who have never been to Portland and can offer something a bit different from the usual fare of tablas and sitar.