Footsteps to Freedom, Mumbai, India
THE JUNOON 'FOOTSTEPS TO FREEDOM' PROGRAM, MUMBAI, INDIA
This program, designed by Shikha Jhaveri, conducted for the children of the Raksha Foundation, empowers underprivileged children by providing them with opportunities to express themselves, build confidence, health and scope and break free from societal limitations, through Classical Dance.
Introduction:
Dance as a medium allows children to express themselves, channel their emotions, and develop a sense of identity and confidence.
The Classical Dance forms of Bharatanatyam and Classical Ballet, with their rich cultural heritage and disciplined practice, teach children about their cultural roots while also providing a modern outlook through our unique and all-encompassing approach to training.
WHAT'S NEW - PHASE THREE
We concluded our program at The Raksha Foundation, with a very special class curated for a selected trio of boys who wished to train more intensely at Ballet.
They truly put their best “foot” forward and it was so heartening to watch. We were able to come through absolute beginner fundamentals in Ballet technique.
We hope the boys will have a chance to work with us again. They were a joy to behold in their effort and commitment to the physical and theoretical aspects of Classical Dance and supporting Arts training.
WHAT'S NEW - PHASE TWO
Yes!
We’re into Phase Two! We’ve set aside time in session and set up plenty of exercises for group work to keep time and make our practice of beat cycles (Talam) more efficient.
The kids have begun to set up their own warm up and artistic Fitness routines so they are prepared and conditioned for Classical Dance. To say they are learning fast is an understatement.
They began learning
Asamyukta Hastas
(the single hand gestures/mudras)
intrinsic to Indian Classical Dance.
Our hands give our Dance meaning – “Hastaabhyaam Darshayet Bhaavam|”
And our floor routines continue to progress.
We are getting longer, stronger and tougher everyday.
We love it when the kids take the lead on demonstrating and inspiring one another.
We are seeing leaders emerge already and that is the first indicator to ensure the longevity of a program. This is only Phase Two of the program and there’s no telling where this can go!
What's New - PHASE ONE
We have today come through Phase One of “The Junoon Footsteps to Freedom Program” at The Raksha Foundation, designed by our beloved Shikha Jhaveri.
⭐This week involved introducing the beautiful art forms of Ballet and Bharata Natyam to the kids through storytelling and the many different components of The Junoon Methodology. The kids have made a great start in absorbing what it means to be a Classical Dancer and all the related areas of study that being and becoming a Dancer involve!
⭐The kids explored The Junoon Publication, titled “MARG”, a crucial aspect of The Junoon Methodology and tried to immerse themselves into as many components of the book as they could. They are pictured here giving a Yoga Asana a shot to build flexibility and strength for Classical Dance.
⭐They worked their balance to get strong for Classical Dance.
⭐Learning through observation is a huge aspect of The Junoon Methodology. We learn so much by watching. The kids are marking angles and the geometry of Classical Dance as they enter into an immersive learning experience that will make them embody these angles eventually! And we continue to demonstrate the angles and shapes they need to make to turn them into the most efficient Classical Dancers to come!
⭐We began to employing every preparatory drill scripted into The Junoon Methodology by our dear Ms. Burcu 🤍. There are glimpses of our Foot preparation!
⭐We have also begun with music and Taalam practice and preparing these wonderkids for the magical realm of Classical Dance.
⭐The kids are into (as they should be) Artistic Fitness drills and sequences to prepare and condition their bodies for Classical Dance. They are going to get so strong! 💪🏽
What a beginning. And what a feeling to come through Phase One on “The Junoon Footsteps to Freedom Program”.
Objectives:
Objectives of the program are as follows:
1. Breaking Societal Barriers.
2. Holistic Development.
3. Community and Support.
4. Freedom and Expression.
Breaking Societal Barriers
By offering professional dance training to underprivileged children, the program breaks the cycle of poverty and opens up new avenues for career opportunities.
Dance performances and showcases provide a platform for these children to be seen and heard, challenging societal stereotypes and prejudices.
Holistic Development
Dance promotes physical fitness, mental well-being, and emotional balance, contributing to the overall development of the children.
The program incorporates life skills training, including teamwork, perseverance, and creativity, which are essential for personal and professional growth.
The program also incorporates literature, storytelling and theoretical learning. Classical Dance is codified in texts and theories passed down over generations. Absorbing this theory inculcates a deep seated respect for our history and heritage and encourages its preservation for and by future generations.
Community and Support
Our collaboration with Raksha ensures that the children receive not only dance training but also social support, counseling, and educational assistance.
Building a supportive community around these children helps in nurturing their talents and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
Freedom and Expression
The program symbolizes the freedom to dream and achieve, regardless of one’s background or circumstances.
It provides a safe space for children to explore their talents and passions, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Our program is significant in providing underprivileged children with the tools and opportunities to transform their lives and achieve freedom through the Art of Dance.
