Celebrate Holi with Ajna Dance at Brooklyn Children's Museum
2024-04-06 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11213, United States
Celebrate Holi at Brooklyn Children’s Museum! Together with Ajna Dance Company and The Culture Tree, get ready for our annual celebration of springtime, renewal, color, and play!
Known as the “Color Festival,” Holi originated in India and is now enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. Come hungry and ready to play as we celebrate a day of art, dance, food, music, and wonder that will make your whole family feel like you’ve been transported to the streets of India (or Trinidad or Guyana).
And it wouldn’t be Holi without color powder. We’ll be taking over neighboring Brower Park with pounds of color powder to throw in the air. Make sure to wear WHITE for color powder play and secure your tickets and powder early for this unforgettable day!
There are three Celebrate Holi sessions, each 2.5 hours long. The performance line-up is the same for each session, and each culminates in color powder play—rain or shine!

Interactive Bhangra Workshop with Ajna Dance
2024-05-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Croton Free Library, 171 Cleveland Drive, Croton-on-Hudson, NY, 10520, United States
Join us for an exhilarating Bhangra workshop hosted by Ajna Dance Company.
Dive into the colorful world of this joyful folk dance originating from Punjab, India, and Pakistan.
Learn the signature moves and get ready for a lively, interactive session suitable for the entire family. Balle balle!
Free and open to all, but space is limited and registration is required

For Educators - Bring Ajna to your school!
2024-05-09
Ajna was founded with the mission of celebrating diversity and fostering cultural inclusion through Indian dance programming for students of all ages and backgrounds. We offer dance programs to students in public, charter, and private schools, and community-based organizations.
OUR PROGRAMMING FOCUSES ON THE FOLLOWING CORE PRINCIPLES:

Exploring identity, community and creative potential
Celebrating diversity & fostering cultural inclusion through the arts
Developing life-skills such as teamwork, self-discipline and respect for others
Building confidence and social emotional learning (SEL) through learning, creating and performing Indian dance
Exploring culture, history, geography and the South Asian diaspora through dance and music

We offer a unique way for children to learn about the global and historical significance of dances from India and the Indian diaspora in a way that is fun and relatable. Students learn dance technique and work on choreography but also develop a deeper understanding how dance and specifically Indian dance is used as a means of expression and communication. *Due to Covid19 we have transitioned to also providing our arts education programs virtually! Many of our school partners have successfully transitioned to virtual dance residencies, workshops and after-school classes. Please get in touch so we can help share dance, movement, culture and fun with your students.*

DANCES OF INDIA ASSEMBLY (IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL OFFERINGS)
Our highly popular ‘Dances of India’ assembly is a great way to introduce a larger group of students to Indian dance and culture. The lecture-demonstration format touches on concepts in geography, history and social studies in addition to dance and movement. The assembly is great any time of the year but popular during the celebrations of Diwali (the festival of lights) in the fall and Holi (the color festival) in the spring.
The lecture-demonstration assembly (45–60 minutes) includes:

Introduction to Indian dance, movement and culture
An interactive explanation and demonstration of classical (Bharatanatyam & Kathak), folk (Garba, Dandiya, & Bhangra), and Bollywood dance, highlighting the significance of storytelling in these art forms
Active audience participation in learning facial expressions, hand gestures, basic movements, rhythmic counting, and more
Authentic & artistic Indian dance performance by Ajna dance artists in cultural costuming
Concludes with an interactive dance lesson where students (and teachers!) learn a short piece of Bollywood choreography

DANCE RESIDENCIES
Ajna’s dance residencies provide the opportunity for students to get a truly in-depth experience of Indian dance and culture and culminate in a final performance by the students. In addition to learning dance technique and working on choreography, students learn in detail about the historical and cultural context of the dance. Residency program details:

Bollywood, classical and/or folk dance residencies
6, 8, 10, 15 week residencies for 1-5 classes per day
Includes an introductory planning meeting between the Ajna teaching artists, school administrators, and classroom teachers
Emphasis on dance technique, creativity, choreography, increased cultural awareness and developing confidence
Culminate with a spectacular student performance complete with staging and cultural costuming
Ajna dance residencies are customized to fit a school’s or organization’s schedule and budgetary needs.

STUDENT WORKSHOPS (IN- PERSON AND VIRTUAL OFFERINGS)
We also lead classroom workshops for individual classes, grades, or small groups of students or faculty. We can come in for a single period or more and share an interactive session of Indian dance. These programs allow for a more detailed interaction between the teaching artists and students and can vary in focus, depending on the goals and objectives of the group. Popular for:

When classes are studying India or Asia
The festivals of Diwali (fall) and Holi (spring)
May for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

PARENT ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOPS (IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL OFFERINGS)
We love getting parents and the community involved in our work and up and dancing! We offer a 45-60 minute parent workshop with an overview of our Indian dance programming for students and an interactive dance lesson including a short choreography that is guaranteed fun.

A SAMPLE OF OUR PARTNERS IN EDUCATION:

PS 20
PS 182
Success Academy Williamsburg
Nord Anglia International School
The Katmint Learning Initiative

PS 244
PS 107X
Success Academy Fort Greene
The British International School
Hommocks Middle School

PS 7
PS 19Q
Success Academy Harlem
The Brooklyn Friends School
Deerfield School

PS 3
PS 253Q
Bronx River High School
Ethical Culture Fieldston School
Iona College

PS 4
IS 77
Lakewood Elementary School
Metropolitan Montessori School
Hunter College (CUNY)

PS 115
PS 166
Bronx Little School
The International Preschools
Suffolk Community College

PS 69
MS 124
Wilton High School
Allen-Stevenson School
Keene State College

PS 192
PS 316
Mott Hall Charter School
Bank Street School for Children
Ramapo College

FOR MORE INFORMATION, BOOKING, OR TO REQUEST A QUOTE PLEASE COMPLETE THIS FORM : https://www.ajnadance.com/contact/

Watch Ajna Dance Perform at AAPI Night Market | Barclays Center
2024-05-13 18:00 | Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave,, Brooklyn, New York, 11217, United States
Join us for an unforgettable experience with Ajna Dance Company at the AAPI Night Market in Barclay Center! Get ready to be amazed as we showcase the beauty of Indian dance styles, including classical, folk, and Bollywood. From graceful moves to lively beats, our performance will take you on a colorful journey through the heart of India.
Don’t miss out on the excitement – grab your tickets now and get ready to dance the night away with us!

Join Ajna Dance at 50th Anniversary Gala & Justice in Action Awards Ceremony
2024-05-20 18:00 | Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers, NYC, Pier 60, 60 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011, New York, New York, 10011
Step into a world of elegance and empowerment at the 50th Anniversary Gala & Justice in Action Awards Ceremony, where Ajna Dance Company will take center stage to ignite the spirit of change through the power of dance. Join us for an evening of celebration and inspiration as we blend the grace of classical Indian dance with the passion of Bollywood flair. From the storytelling finesse of Kathak to the infectious energy of Bhangra, our performance promises to captivate your heart and soul.
Come be a part of this momentous occasion as we dance towards a future filled with hope, equality, and justice for all. Grab your tickets now and witness the magic of Ajna Dance Company at the forefront of social change!

Rhythms of the Soul: Indian Dance by Ajna Dance Company at AAPI 2024
2024-05-22 15:00 - 15:15 | 29th Street, Greenway, 29th Street, Greenway, New York, NY, 11232, United States
We are thrilled to announce that Ajna Dance Company will be performing live at the AAPI Heritage Month Cultural Celebration on March 22, 2024!
At an electrifying performance, Ajna Dance Company will captivate the audiences with their signature blend of Bollywood vibrancy and classical grace. Under Minila Shah’s direction, their ensemble showcased mesmerizing dances that spanned from folk traditions to cinematic Bollywood flair, spotlighting the rich diversity of Indian dance.
Our skilled interpretation enthralled all, illustrating why Ajna stands as New York’s premier Indian dance company, dedicated to sharing the beauty
of Indian dance with a global audience through artistic authenticity and dynamic choreography.
We are honored to be part of this prestigious event and can’t wait to share our love for dance with all of you. Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of unforgettable performances!
See you when you get there !

Experience the Joy of Bhangra: Join Us at Queens Public Library for an Interactive Dance Workshop Day 1
2024-05-23 16:00 - 16:45 | Queens Public Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway,, Woodhaven, New York, 11421
Dive into the vibrant culture of the Punjab region as Ajnaa Dance Company brings the exhilarating rhythms of Bhangra to life at Queens Public Library! Join us for an unforgettable evening of dance, music, and celebration as we delve into the rich tradition of this joyful folk dance. Learn the signature moves that have graced rural celebrations for generations – from the powerful shoulder movements to the infectious beats of the dhol drum. This interactive program is perfect for children of all ages and the whole family to join in the fun.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the magic of Bhangra firsthand! Come dance with us and let the spirit of Punjab fill your heart with joy. Balle balle!

Experience the Joy of Bhangra: Join Us at Queens Public Library for an Interactive Dance Workshop- Day 2
2024-05-29 15:30 - 16:15 | Queens Public Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway,, Woodhaven, New York, 11421

Experience the Joy of Bhangra: Join Us at Queens Public Library for an Interactive Dance Workshop Day 3
2024-05-30 16:30 - 17:15 | Queens Public Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway,, Woodhaven, New York, 11421

Indian Dance Lessons at Queens Public Library East Elmhurst
2024-06-07 10:30 - 11:15
Indian Dancing With Ajna & Urban Stages
Join us as we get a first taste of the dances from India, including classical, folk and Bollywood dance styles. You will learn some basic movements and also a fun routine suitable for dancers of all ages and levels. Experience Indian dance and culture in a way that is joyful, fun, and will get the whole family moving!

Join us for free dance workshops on June 7th, 14th, & 21st at Queens Public Library
2024-06-07 10:30 - 11:15 | East Elmhurst, 95-06 Astoria Boulevard, East Elmhurst, NY, 11369, United States
Join us as we get a first taste of the dances from India, including classical, folk and Bollywood dance styles. You will learn some basic movements and also a fun routine suitable for dancers of all ages and levels.
Experience Indian dance and culture in a way that is joyful, fun, and will get the whole family moving!

Catch us at '8 In Show' on Thursday, June 20th - Tickets on sale now
2024-06-20 19:30 | Dixon Place
Ajna Dance is thrilled to announce that we’ll be showcasing our incredible talent at the upcoming ‘8 In Show’ event! 🌟 Get ready to be dazzled by our energetic performances and vibrant choreography that will leave you wanting more!
Mark your calendars for June 20 2024 and come support us as we take the stage alongside other amazing performers. It’s going to be a night filled with music, dance, and unforgettable memories!
We have a special treat just for you! Use promo code “8inshow24” to unlock a fantastic $3 discount on advance tickets to the upcoming ‘8 In Show’ event! But hurry, there’s only a limited number of discounted tickets available, so grab yours now before they’re gone!
🎟️ Purchase your discounted tickets here: Get Tickets
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the magic of Ajna Dance live! Grab your tickets now and get ready to dance the night away with us! See you there!

Experience Serenity with Ajna Dance: Join Us for Breathwork & Meditation at India Week @ Lincoln Center
2024-07-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Griffin Sidewalk Studio, David Geffen Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Join dancer and yogi Minila Shah (Ajna Dance Company) and musicians Jay Gandhi (bansuri flute) and Ehren Hanson (tabla) for mindfulness practices, breathwork, and gentle stretches. Designed to improve flexibility and release tension, the program will guide you inwards through mindfulness techniques, help you focus on the present moment, and quiet the mind. This experience is perfect for anyone seeking to unwind, de-stress, and reconnect with their inner selves.

South Asian Community Celebration at West Side Fest
2024-07-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Pier 63, West 23rd Street and 12th Ave, New York, 10011, United States
South Asian Community Celebration at West Side Fest
Celebrate South Asian dance, music and culture at HRPK’s first ever South Asian Community Celebration. In partnership with Ajna Dance Company, get ready for summer celebration of dance, music, henna, face painting, food, ice cream and FUN for the family!
The event runs from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM and tickets are free and open to all.
Schedule
11:00 AM: Henna and face painting
11:30 AM: Ajna Dance Performance and family dance workshop
12:15–1:00 PM: Dance party with DJ Sunny
Partners include:

Malai Ice Cream
Veeray Da Dhaba
Henna artists: Sandy Patangay & Chandni Parekh
Dholi: Avish Arora
DJ Sunny

Visit westsidefest.nyc to view a full schedule of participating museums and cultural institutions, as well as free activities like special indoor and outdoor programming, artmaking, and more for all ages.
About West Side Cultural Network
The West Side Cultural Network is a group of more than 20 museums, parks, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions along the West Side of Manhattan. WSCN’s mission is to ensure New Yorkers know they have access to the myriad, dynamic cultural offerings along the Hudson River and the adjoining neighborhoods.

Boogie Woogie Wednesdays: Bollywood & Bhangra Dance with Ajna Dance Company at Staten Island Children's Museum
2024-07-17 15:30
Join us as we get a first taste of the dances from India including Bollywood & Bhangra dance styles on July 17 2024 at Staten Island Children’s Museum. Watch a performance from Ajna Dance and then join in the fun! You will learn some basic movements and a fun dance routine suitable for all ages and levels. Experience Indian dance and culture in a way that is relatable, joyful, and fun. An interactive program that will get the whole family moving. Free with museum admission.

Mark Your Calendars: Ajna Dance Company at Bronx Zoo - Four-Day Event!
2024-08-10 12:00 - 16:00
Get ready to move it! Ajna Dance Company is thrilled to announce a four-day event at the world-famous Bronx Zoo, happening Saturday and Sunday, August 10th-11th and 17th-18th.
We will be preforming at Bronx Zoo for a special event that promises to be both entertaining and educational. More information about the event, including showtimes, ticketing details, and specific performance dates for each type of dance, will be available on our website in August.
In the meantime, be sure to check back for updates and don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience the magic of dance at the Bronx Zoo!

Join Ajna Dance at the US Open Fan Week - Get ready to experience the vibrant energy of Bollywood and Bhangra right here at the US Open Fan Week! 🎉
2024-08-22 13:00
We are thrilled to invite you to a special performance by Ajna Dance Company, where we’ll bring the rich and colorful traditions of Indian dance to life with a dynamic medley of Bollywood and Bhangra styles. But that’s not all! After the performance, we’ll be hosting an interactive dance workshop, giving you the chance to learn some of the moves and groove along with us.
This event is FREE and open to everyone, so bring your friends, family, and all the dance enthusiasts you know!

Experience the Vibrant Culture of India with Ajna Dance Company!
2024-08-24 14:00
Join us on August 24 at Longwood Public Library for an unforgettable journey through the rich traditions of Indian dance and music. Ajna Dance Company will captivate you with performances featuring three distinct styles of Indian dance. After the show, immerse yourself in the energy of Bollywood and Bhangra with our live, interactive dance workshop.
This event is open to all and perfect for anyone looking to learn and have fun.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to explore Indian culture through dance and music!

Join Us at the Meatpacking Blessing Ceremony and Reception on September 7
2024-09-03 16:20 - 18:30
Ajna Dance Company is thrilled to announce our upcoming performance at the Meatpacking Blessing Ceremony and Reception on September 7. This special event promises to be a vibrant celebration, and we are honored to be a part of it.
For the blessing ceremony, we will present a graceful classical/semi-classical dance piece, carefully chosen to complement the serene and uplifting atmosphere. Our dancers will bring a blend of elegance and spirituality, perfectly attuned to the energy and vibe of this meaningful occasion.
Following the ceremony, the reception will come alive with a high-energy Bollywood/Bhangra performance. Expect an explosion of color, rhythm, and joy as we bring the beats of Bollywood and the spirited movements of Bhangra to the heart of the celebration. This lively and dynamic piece is sure to get everyone on their feet and add to the festive spirit of the event.
We look forward to sharing these moments with you. Mark your calendars and join us for a day of dance, culture, and celebration!

FREE Bollywood & Bhangra Dance Classes in partnership with Hudson River Park, Every Saturday from September 14th to October 19th, 11AM
2024-09-14 11:00 | Pier 63 at Hudson River Park
Get ready to move to the infectious beats of Bollywood and Bhangra! Ajna Dance is thrilled to present a dynamic FREE dance-fitness series in partnership with Hudson River Park.
Join us for a 60 minute cardio dance workout suitable for all fitness levels. Our experienced instructors will guide you through a fun and challenging routine that will leave you feeling energized and inspired.
Classes will take place every Saturday from September 14th to October 19th, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Classes will be held at Pier 63 at Hudson River Park.
See you there!

Bhangra Dance Workshop at Brooklyn Public Library
2024-09-14 15:00 - 16:00
Join Ajna Dance Company for an exciting Bhangra Dance Workshop at the Brooklyn Public Library! On September 14, 2024, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Bhangra, a traditional Punjabi folk dance known for its energetic moves and infectious rhythms.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to learn the basics of Bhangra in a fun and welcoming environment. Our skilled instructors from Ajna Dance will guide you through each step, helping you connect with the music and culture behind this lively dance style.
Come ready to dance, have fun, and embrace the spirit of Bhangra with Ajna Dance!

Join Ajna at Chelsea Waterside Park Celebration on October 5th!
2024-10-05 12:15 - 14:45 | Chelsea Waterside Park, 557 W 23rd St, New York, New York, 10011, United States
Join us for a vibrant community celebration at Chelsea Waterside Park! The Bollywood & Bhangra dance class series welcomes dancers of all levels and ages. Experience the joy of movement, connect with others, and immerse yourself in the energetic rhythms of Bollywood and Bhangra. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate dance and community together!

Ajna Student Performance at Brooklyn DA's Diwali Celebration on 10/23
2024-10-23 18:00 - 20:00
Join us on October 23rd for the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office Diwali celebration, featuring performances by Ajna students! Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Diwali with traditional music, vibrant dance performances, and delicious food.

Join Us for a FREE Diwali Celebration with Hudson River Park on Saturday October 26th
2024-10-26 11:00 - 13:00
Ajna Dance Company, in collaboration with Hudson River Park, invites you to celebrate the Festival of Lights with us on October 26th from 11am-1pm. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, enchanting rhythms, and joyful spirit of Diwali as we bring you Bollywood and Bhangra dance performances, workshops, mehndi (henna), live dhol, face painting for kids complete with a DJ and dance party!
The event is free and open to all. We hope to see you there!

Diwali Celebration at Queens County Women's Bar Association
2024-10-30 19:00
Join us for a family-friendly Diwali Celebration on October 30th with the Queens County Women’s Bar Association! Festive attire is encouraged—let’s celebrate together!

Diwali Celebration at Asian American Association of CSA
2024-11-12 19:30
Come celebrate with us as we perform at the Asian American Association of CSA on November 12th! Experience a captivating showcase of South Asian dance led by Ajna’s founder and talented artist, Minila Shah.

Social Justice Workshop at Brooklyn Children's Museum: Hands of Change: Communicating Through Movement
2025-01-23 15:00 - 15:45
On January 23, 2025, join us at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum for an inspiring workshop, Hands of Change: Communicating Through Movement, designed for children.
In this interactive session, we will explore themes of unity, kindness, and social justice through hand gestures inspired by Indian classical dance and storytelling. Children will learn how hand movements can convey powerful messages, engaging in playful activities that foster creativity and teamwork.
This workshop is perfectly aligned with the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., encouraging young participants to express themselves and collaborate in meaningful ways. It’s an educational and fun experience that teaches the power of communication and social change through movement.

Ajna x Bayside Historical Society - Passport Concert Series: Holi Celebration
2025-03-23 15:00 - 16:00
Celebrate Holi, the festival of colors, with Ajna Dance Company at the Bayside Historical Society’s Passport Concert Series. This event features an engaging introduction to the significance of Holi, followed by an exploration of Indian culture through Classical, Folk, and Bollywood dance styles.
Enjoy a dynamic performance by Ajna Dance Company and participate in an interactive Bollywood and Bhangra dance workshop. Attendees will also get a sneak peek of the “Dances of India” workshop. Join us for a vibrant celebration of dance, movement, and culture!

Join Ajna Dance for Bollywood Dance Fitness for Beginners (Virtual) at Hicksville Public Library
2025-04-18 11:00 - 11:50
Join us for a 3-week online Bollywood Dance Fitness class hosted in collaboration with Hicksville Public Library!.
Get ready for high-energy, full-body cardio workouts inspired by the vibrant dance styles of Bollywood and Bhangra. Set to catchy Hindi film music, each session includes a warm-up, dynamic choreography, and a relaxing yoga cool-down. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced dancer, this class is suitable for all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. It’s the perfect way to stay active and have fun from the comfort of your home.
📅 Dates & Time:

Friday, April 11, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM (ET)
Friday, April 18, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM (ET)
Friday, April 25, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM (ET)

📍 Location: Online (via Zoom)🔗 Registration Required: Sign up Here to receive the Zoom link.👥 Audience: Adults🏷️ Category: Fitness / Exercise
Ready to dance? Register now and let’s move together

Experience the Vibrance of Indian Dance with Ajna Dance at Brooklyn Children’s Museum
2025-05-03 10:00 - 18:30
Join us on May 3, 2025, as Ajna Dance brings the energy, color, and joy of Indian dance to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum! Enjoy stunning performances that combine tradition and artistry, showcasing the richness of Indian culture. Perfect for all ages, this event promises to inspire, entertain, and leave you with lasting memories. Don’t miss out on this celebration of dance and culture
