Mushayra @thePark.

Poetry | Music | Henna | Ayurveda

A note from the Curator

Dear Friends,

As I look back on our journey—from late-night conversations in a student apartment, in Waterloo, with Simarpreet (Co-Founder/ Director ) to the joyous moments of officially incorporating our society last year—I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Each step has been a testament to our shared passion for culture, art, and community.

Today marks a deeply meaningful milestone: our first public event as part of the Mushayara series. This moment symbolizes not just a beginning but the realization of a dream nurtured with love and dedication. Khushi,(Co-Director), and I curated our very first Mushayara event, starting with an intimate, invite-only gathering that laid the foundation for tonight's celebration. None of this would have been possible without our incredible team and my lovely friends who were there to support me. To our donors and supporters, your belief in our vision has been our greatest strength. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Moberly Arts & Cultural Centre and Plant Veda for their invaluable partnership and support.

To the talented artists performing tonight, your willingness to collaborate selflessly or accept minimal remittance touches me deeply. Your passion and dedication shine through, enriching our event with your artistry.

Join us for an evening filled with warmth, creativity, and unity. This event is not just an event; it's a celebration of the connections we've forged and the community we've built together. I am filled with anticipation and gratitude as we embark on this next chapter, and I am honored to share this journey with each of you.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Tejasvi Arneja

Founder | Director | Artistic Curator

Lost In Immigration Society


OUR SPONSORS

Mera Naya Bachpan.

We start this event with Anubhooti and her mother reciting the poem "Mera Naya Bachpan" by Subhadra Kumari Chauhan. This poem holds a special place in Anubhooti's heart, as her father used to read it to her during bedtime. The poem beautifully captures the stages of a woman's life, reflecting on the joys of childhood and the inevitable transition into adulthood.

Raag Shuddha Sarang.

Step into the spotlight of our event's highlight: Prashant Shashikumar, renowned for his mastery of the sitar, and accompanied by the rhythmic finesse of Rishi Rajeev on the tabla, will captivate you with the enchanting Raag Shuddha Sarang. This serene and melodious raga, deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Indian classical music, unfolds like the onset of a gentle monsoon shower, evoking imagery of tranquil landscapes and the rejuvenating scent of rain-soaked earth. Set against the backdrop of a peaceful early summer evening, their performance promises to transport you into a realm of profound introspection and emotional resonance. Experience the intricate melodies and evocative rhythms of Shuddha Sarang as they craft an immersive journey of serenity and beauty through their music.

Herb Garden walk

Alisha Lettman is a community-engaged artist, herbalist, and vocalist blending influences from her Sindhi mother and Jamaican father. Her artistic practice focuses on dismantling oppression and fostering healing. She leads culturally responsive arts and land-based learning projects for diverse groups, promoting anti-oppressive community belonging through creativity. Alisha serves as the artist in residence and curator of the Moberly Herb Garden at Vancouver's Moberly Arts and Cultural Centre’s Medicinal Garden. She integrates South Asian herbs and vegetables into her stewardship practices rooted in Ayurvedic and Afro-Caribbean traditions. Alisha will conclude the event with a guided walk showcasing her garden, engaging participants in reciprocal relationships with the land and community.

Mehendi

In our endeavor to uphold the cherished tradition of mehndi, or henna artistry, Sarrah Patla will host a live henna station. Mehndi holds deep cultural roots in South Asia, where it has been practiced for centuries. Originating in ancient India, this art form has evolved into a symbol of beauty, celebration, and auspiciousness. Traditionally applied during weddings, festivals, and other joyous occasions, mehndi patterns intricately adorn hands and feet, conveying cultural heritage and intricate designs. This activity is open exclusively to invited guests or those contributing through donations.

Special Thanks

Arushi Gupta

Khushi Khosla

Simarpreet Singh

Anubhooti Joshi

Asad Khan

Bhavik Wadhawan

Ayaan Rahman

Arushi Gupta • Khushi Khosla • Simarpreet Singh • Anubhooti Joshi • Asad Khan • Bhavik Wadhawan • Ayaan Rahman •

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Every great initiative starts with an idea, but to bring it to life, we rely on your support. Currently, we are self-funded and operate with limited resources. Your donations are crucial in ensuring that we can compensate our performing artists and continue to grow. Rest assured, every dollar you contribute goes directly towards supporting the artists performing today or inviting new talent for future events. Please note we are a registered BC non-profit society, we do not provide the charity tax benefit on donations.

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