Indian Conservatory of Paris 2024 : Olympics & Paralympics - An ode to Tradition and human Excellence

Bhavana Pradyumna

6/13/20243 min read

Growing up, the Olympics were always more than just a global sporting event—they were a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the incredible potential of human achievement. Every four years, my family and I would gather around the TV, watching athletes from all over the world push their limits and break barriers. The excitement, the passion, and the sheer display of dedication left an indelible mark on my heart. The Olympics inspired dreams, ignited passions, and brought the world together in a way that nothing else could.

A Dream Realized: The Indian Conservatory of Paris at the Olympics

This year, as the Olympic torch ignites in Paris, I am thrilled to share that the Indian Conservatory of Paris has been chosen to participate in the city’s festive zones, celebrating the vibrant cultural diversity that the Olympics embody. It feels like a full-circle moment, blending the childhood inspiration of the Olympics with my passion for Indian culture. Our showcase will bring the rich and diverse heritage of India to the global stage, a tribute to the country’s deep-rooted traditions and artistic excellence.

An Ode to Tradition

In our preparation, there were suggestions to include Bollywood elements for broader appeal. However, as a conservatory dedicated to classical, folk, and traditional Indian art forms, we have chosen to stay true to our core curriculum. Our focus remains on nurturing and preserving the classical and folk arts that have been passed down through generations. From Bharatanatyam to Kathak, Hindustani to Carnatic music, our curriculum embodies the essence of Indian cultural heritage.

Celebrating Friendship and Unity

One of the highlights of our event curation is "Panchatantra: Fable de la Fontaine," a symbolic representation of the friendship between India and France. Through this collaboration, we aim to bring the world closer together, highlighting the universal themes of friendship, wisdom, and unity found in both Indian and French cultures. It is a tribute to the age-old tradition of storytelling, which transcends borders and languages, uniting people from all walks of life.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: The World is One Family

At the heart of our showcase is the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, an ancient Indian concept that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings. As we come together in Paris to celebrate the Olympic spirit, we are reminded that despite our diverse backgrounds and cultures, we are all part of one global family. Through our art and traditions, we seek to promote understanding, respect, and harmony among nations, fostering a world where unity triumphs over division.

A Humbling Honor

There are 65K+ associations in Paris. Only a handful of associations have been handpicked by Paris City, after thorough and rigorous selection process, to represent what Paris city stands for, in front of a global audience! We are honored to be one amongst the handful, to be curating events representing Paris City, to entertain a global audience!

We only Curate high quality Indian Classical and folk based artistic presentations! Paris City has made us, their own. We are truly humbled by this opportunity.

It’s a recognition of the universality and richness of Indian heritage and a deep respect for our traditions. It’s also a testament to the French appreciation for cultural diversity and authenticity. As we prepare to bring our music, dance, yoga, and traditional art forms to the festive zones, we feel a profound sense of pride and responsibility.

A Call to Celebrate

We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the best of India at site 12: Parc Saint Périne, Paris 16. This location, nestled among iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero, Roland Garros, and Stade de France, will be a melting pot of cultures, united by the Olympic spirit. Our showcase will be a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, offering something for everyone.

Embracing Diversity Through Art

As we come together in Paris, let’s celebrate more than just athletic excellence. Let’s embrace the beauty of diversity and the power of unity through art and tradition. The Indian Conservatory of Paris is honored to be a part of this global festival, and we look forward to sharing the richness of Indian culture with you.

Join us in this celebration. Let’s make this Olympic celebration a true reflection of the world’s rich tapestry of traditions and the enduring power of the human spirit.

See you in Paris!