By Cinara Marquis
All were welcome to enjoy the vibrant Mughal Masquerade, an event hosted by the Desi Club highlighting the richness of Indian culture and history. Held in the Warren Ballroom on the evening of March 31 the space housed an inclusive community.
Desi Club Vice President Arshita Pandey welcomed attendees and spoke on blending education with entertainment during the event.
“Our goal was not just to have fun, but more importantly to showcase this significant part of Asian history,” Pandey said.
Desi Club President, Saanvi Moryani reinforced those values, she said “We believe that it’s really important as a cultural club to show that culture.”
POWERFUL PAST
After a brief introduction, Desi Club presented an educational TED-Ed video on the rise and fall of the Mughal empire. The video presented a story of the empires’ powerful rulers and the resonant history of India.
Founded in 1526 in India the Mughal empire was one of the wealthiest and most powerful states in the early modern era. Home to nearly a quarter of the world population at the time, it lasted more than three centuries.
The Mughal empire was a colorful culture with diverse traditions. Many emperors were patrons of the arts, funding countless incredible architecture, literature and artwork that is praised today, such as the Taj Mahal, the Peacock Throne and the Baburnama.
Many traditional foods have been passed down throughout the years as popular South Asian dishes and some were served at the event including veggie biryani, chicken lollipop, lamb korma, paneer makhani and mango lassi, as well as various appetizers and desserts.
CELEBRATION
The hosts then invited attendees to the front stage for a game, a grape race in which players must balance a grape on a spoon while racing across the ballroom.
After the game there was a Jugalbandi dance performance by Moryani and Shahad Monir. Jugalbandi is a traditional Indian duet dance that translates to “entwined twins.”
Attendees were then welcomed to participate in another game where they would be called to bring what the hosts wanted such as a masquerade mask, a ring, a heel, and various other items.
Next, a Kathak dance was performed by Moryani, Anushri Rao, Ankita Mane and Monir. One of the eight major forms of Indian classical dance, Kathak translates to “story,” the dancers being the ones telling that story.
Then there was a catwalk — attendees were invited to walk along the dance floor in competition for the title of Raja and Rani, or King and Queen. After a close competition Desi Club’s board voted for the winners. Jonanthony Tarlen was crowned Raja for his fabulous flips and Zanaeja Dandy, Rani for her outstanding outfit and confident walk.
After the terrific performances, games, food and talks the music boomed and the dance floor flooded with attendees, such as Mrudangi Trivedi.
“Yes, I did enjoy the event. The way all the club members make you feel inclusive, it doesn’t fail to entertain.” Trivedi said.
She especially enjoyed the food.
“The food dishes club members chose were extremely on point, my favorite was dessert.”
She also explained how the event connected her back to India, “The atmosphere they create in there by decorating definitely takes me back home.” Trivedi said.
Learn more about by the Mughal empire by watching the video ‘The rise and fall of the Mughal Empire – Stephanie Honchell Smith’ at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMsmCxIEQr4
Find Desi Club on Cardinal Link at https://campusgroups.plattsburgh.edu/feeds?type=club&type_id=35459&tab=about
And follow it on Instagram at @desiclubplattsburgh
