CLASSICAL INDIAN MUSIC AND DANCE TO BRING HEALING TO THE PILBARA

BY ASAD KHAN AND TANGIORA HINAKI

First-of-its-kind performance coming to REAP Theatre

The Hindu Association of the Pilbara is set to host a unique cultural event on 9 August 2025 at Karratha’s REAP Theatre, offering a rare opportunity for locals to experience Indian classical music and dance performed live.

Instruments and artists from across the subcontinent

Artists travelling from Perth will perform with traditional instruments such as the tabla, sitar, violin, and flute, which are central to the musical traditions of India, Pakistan, and neighbouring cultures.

Two dancers, trained in Bharatanatyam and Kathak, will accompany the music with expressive storytelling through rhythm and movement.

More than performance: a form of emotional release

Event organiser Narendra Tathe says classical Indian art forms are deeply connected to mental wellbeing.

“Indian classical music is built on something called ragas, which are musical frameworks designed to create specific moods,” he said.

“Some are calming, others energising,”

“Combined with classical dance, which uses expression and rhythm, it becomes a form of emotional release. These art forms have been used for centuries to bring peace and focus to the mind.”

Cultural expression as community care

Mr Tathe said the goal is to bring something healing and meaningful to the local community.

“We wanted to offer something soulful and healing—something that is artistic and therapeutic,” he said.

The event is open to all and is the first time a full-scale Indian classical music and dance performance will be staged in the Pilbara.

Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Tangiora Hinaki speak with Narendra Tathe: