Morganville, NJ – May 10, 2025
The sounds of rhythmic footwork, swaying “ghungroos”, and vibrant melodies echoed through the halls of the Sri Guruvayuroopan Temple in Morganville on the evening of May 10, as Ulpa’s Dance Academy hosted its much-anticipated annual recital, “Rang – Colors of Life.”
Brimming with energy, color, and cultural pride, the event was a resounding celebration of India’s rich classical and folk dance traditions. The recital, choreographed and directed by Ulpa Desai—founder and artistic director of the academy—brought together over 80 performers ranging in age from 4 to 55. Each performance transported the audience into a different facet of India’s cultural mosaic, from the expressive storytelling of Bharatanatyam and the intricate footwork of Kathak to the joyous swirls of Garba and spirited semi-classical fusions.
“Dance is more than just movement—it’s a language of the soul, a way to honor our heritage,” said Ulpa Desai, who has spent years nurturing young dancers in the community. Her vision for the recital was to showcase the diversity within Indian dance while uniting generations on a single platform.
A particularly touching moment of the evening came with the presence of the Guest of Honor, Smita Miki Patel. A cultural stalwart in the Indian-American community, Patel has been associated with the Federation of Indian Associations since 1990. Now serving as the organization’s Executive Vice President, she was honored for her 48 years of volunteer service dedicated to promoting Indian culture and empowering the diaspora.
In her keynote address, Patel praised the academy’s commitment to preserving traditional arts. “Events like this connect our younger generation with their roots,” she noted. “It’s inspiring to see such passion and dedication from students, parents, and teachers alike.”
Family, friends, and dance enthusiasts filled the auditorium, applauding enthusiastically as each performance unfolded with meticulous choreography and heartfelt expression. The show concluded with a grand finale uniting all performers, a visual kaleidoscope of costumes and coordinated movements that truly embodied the spirit of “Rang”—colors of life.
As the lights dimmed and the audience rose to their feet, it was clear that this evening was more than just a recital—it was a joyous reaffirmation of identity, tradition, and artistic expression.
Ulpa’s Dance Academy continues to be a beacon for cultural education and artistic excellence in New Jersey, inspiring a new generation to embrace the rhythm of their heritage.
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