Temple Dance
Deva/Devi ( God/Goddess in Hindi) : Devaresque is a number I do that is based on the ancient tradition of Devadasi's ( a temple dancer that focuses on her worship to the Devas( Gods) mixed with modern belly dance ).
Devadasi:Devadasi means a female servant of god. trained in dance, literature, music and the playing of musical intruments, Devadasis were dedicated to temples for entertaining the Lord. They were highly respected for having the unique privilege of being in close proximity to the Lord and known as celestial singers and attendants to the Lord. Owing to their own exalted status and role in society, Devadasis became a community. Members from most castes and communities, including orphans could become apart of the Devadasi community. Dance as an art form was performed and celebrated. The Agamas, sacred texts that established rules for worship in temples, ask for female dancers to serve in temples, especially those dedicated to Shiva.
In the 9th to 12th century AD the Devadasi system was at its height. Devadasis were dedicated to the massive temples built during this time around which their lives revolved, cleaning the temples, dressing the deities singing devotional songs and performing sacred acts of worship. The art of dance was meant for entertaining the Gods and took place in front of the image of the Lord. The Devadasis were often large-hearted and charitable and saved people, even their own Kings, from humiliation, donating land and giving away gold ornaments as acts of worship.The generosity of the Devadasis was matched by that of their patrons - kings and lords who endowed temples handsomely. Although much of the history surrounding the Devadasis seems to be maligned and full of misconceptions, we choose to honor and celebrate these sacred practices in our lives as worshippers of the Lord through song, dance, literature and by keeping the sacred flame of the Lord's temples burning
Indian Fusion -Filmi, Rajasthani, Bollywood
Indian dance styles
Ada" Elegance and Finesse, so she dances like! As Divyana I do Indian styles of Dance..............
About my interest in Indian dance and culture.
Being into the Indian culture since the late 80's. I practice Indian dance, Natural healing with herbs(Ayurveda) and Yoga. As I love Indian fd and enjoy cooking . I have taken Indian culinary arts classes(going to Gourmet institute next Spring to further my training. Desideria also performs Indian fusion dance styles as well ....
I have been into ethnic dance since 1985. I have always been into the Indian culture and grew up around friends and family that were part of it. In 1995 I became interested in Bharata Natyam ( traditional Indian dance) and Filmi as I was always fasinated by the mystque, beauty, grace and colorfull costumes and exotic makeup. And I have studied it ever since.........
I have since studied and trained for a short time( but persuing more classes in the near future) in Bollywood ( Indian film dance ) Bhangra ( North Indian Folk dance) from Punjab , Rajasthani ( Desert Region) and Filmi (bellydance of India) .
I am trained professional as well as self taught. Through books, videos, films and classes . I will be continuing training in these dance forms. As well as I instruct others in Ethno-Fusion dance/fitness classes, Goddess worship circles, and private lessons this coming fall.
© 2003-2008 Desideria. All rights reserved
Second set Indian Fusion (East Indian Rajastanhi)
With trays, candles,
Rajasthani Dance - Rise Center 2006
Indian Dance - Darbar Restaurant / Belvedere Convention center CT 2004
These are past photos 2004-2007. New photos will be coming soon. I also design all my own Indian costumes and clothing.
Middle Eastern & Fusion Belly Dance
