#devi dance studio

[devidancestudio-goddesslife]

Good morning everyone. :) We had some last min changes so Early Bird Registration will start today! (fingers crossed it is today). Stay tuned to www.DeviDanceStudio.com Thank you for your understanding. We all look forward to seeing you all there.

To follow our Facebook Event page, go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/1933264973767549

[phoenixlionme]

My Favorite Fictional Couples Part 47

NOTE: Be respectful of my choices; the OTPs are not ranked, just of who I thought when making this list.

The Haunting of Hill House: Theodora "Theo" Crain + Trish Park = Thrish

2. Illumination Studios' Migration: Dax Mallard + Kim = Daxkim

3. Disney's Kim Possible: Senor Senior Junior + Bonnie Rockwaller = Jonnie

4. Disney's Strange World: Ethan Clade + Diazo = Ethiazo

5. Jackie Chan Adventures: Jade Chan + Paco = Jaco

6. Never Have I Ever: Ben Gross + Devi Vishwakumar = Benvi

7. How to Get Away With Murder:  Annalise Keating aka Anna Mae Harkness + Eve Rothlow = Annaleve

8. Drake and Josh: Josh Nichols + Mindy Crenshaw = Joshaw

9. Brooklyn Nine Nine: Raymond Holt + Kevin Cozner =Holtzner

10. Dirty Dancing: Johnny Castle + Frances "Baby" Houseman = Castlebaby

[asianartsblog]

Visit the Asian Arts & Culture Center Gallery at Towson University to experience Asia in Maryland 2024 showcasing the creativity and diverse experiences of APIMEDA artists across Maryland. This vibrant exhibition highlights a range of artistic expressions, from traditional influences to contemporary innovations, capturing the complexities of identity and cultural heritage while reflecting the evolving role of art in community narratives.

.

On view through December 7 (closed October 25 and November 27-30)

Monday – Saturday,11 am – 4 pm

Location: Asian Arts Gallery, Center for the Arts, Towson University, 1 Fine Arts Drive, Towson, MD 21204

Francisco Pham

Born to Vietnamese immigrants, Francisco Pham is a Baltimore-based artist who earned his BFA in Painting from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA).

“Duc Me La Vang” (2022)

This oil painting presents a Vietnamese interpretation of Madonna and Child, flanked by angels, dragons, and Saints Michael and Gabriel. Through this piece, Pham beautifully intertwines sacred iconography with cultural elements, reflecting his exploration of spirituality and heritage.

For more about Francisco Pham:

www.franciscopham.com | IG: @frans_paintins | Cara: @franspaintings

Riya Devi-Ashby

Riya Devi-Ashby, born in Silver Spring, Maryland, received her BA in Studio Art from Wesleyan University. She is also classically trained in Kuchipudi dance, which deeply influences her visual art.

“Release of an Un-woman” (2024)

This mixed media piece challenges the constraints of gender presentation and societal roles. Through layered materials and vibrant forms, Devi-Ashby explores themes of liberation and identity, delving into the inner conflicts that arise when navigating traditional expectations versus personal truths.

For more about Riya Devi-Ashby:

IG: @riyadevi.art

[radhemishra]

The KANGUVA Movie

"Kanguva" appears to be an upcoming Indian Tamil-language fantasy action film, directed by Siva and produced by K. E. Gnanavel Raja, V. Vamsi Krishna Reddy, and Pramod Uppalapati under the banners of Studio Green and UV Creations². The film is also known as "The Man with the Power of Fire" and is marketed as a "mighty valiant saga" promising heavy action and drama³. With music composed by Devi Sri Prasad and visuals from cinematographer Vetri Palanisany, "Kanguva" is set to offer a raw, rustic, and new visual experience to the audience³. The cast includes Suriya in the lead role, with Disha Patani also starring⁵.

Here's a unique take on the movie's premise:

In the mystical lands of ancient Tamilakam, where legends whisper through the winds, there emerges a tale of valor and fire. "Kanguva," a saga that weaves the story of Veeran, a warrior blessed with the enigmatic power of Agni—the divine fire. Veeran's journey is not just one of battles and glory; it is a quest that treads the fine line between myth and reality, where every step forward is a dance with destiny.

As Veeran confronts adversaries both mortal and otherworldly, "Kanguva" unfolds as a cinematic tapestry rich in culture and pulsating with action. It's a narrative that promises to captivate audiences with its grandeur and the raw intensity of its protagonist's plight.

Will Veeran's fiery prowess lead him to victory, or will it consume him in its flames? Only time will tell as "Kanguva" prepares to set the silver screen ablaze with its epic storytelling.

Read more about this new upcoming movie.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/kanguva-sizzle-teaser-suriyas-next-promises-to-be-heavy-on-action-and-drama-watch-101710844025462.html.

[sounds-right]

Parla Sandro Puddu (Acetone): fare il dj è prima di tutto passione

Abbiamo incontrato Sandro Puddu, dj producer sardo in forte crescita come tutti gli artisti legati ad Acetone.

Ci racconti una tua release su Acetone a cui sei particolarmente legato?

Senz’altro sono molto legato a ‘Simply the Best’ di Tina Turner. Produrre questo brano è stato come renderle omaggio. La sua scomparsa, tra l’altro, è avvenuta proprio nel periodo in cui ho prodotto questa traccia. Penso che Tina sia stata una delle leggende più influenti del rock. Con questa traccia sono stato in classifica su Beatport per ben sei mesi, e ancora oggi ricevo feedback molto positivi da chi mi segue e mi supporta

Che ci racconti su Acetone, Sandro Puddu? Il progetto è senz’altro in crescita a livello internazionale…

Acetone per me è stata fin da subito un eccellente trampolino di lancio. La conoscenza con Maurizio Nari e il dialogo tra noi è qualcosa di grandioso; siamo molto affiatati nel confrontarci. La sua umiltà ti permette di esporti anche oltre il mondo della produzione. Ho vissuto per ben 23 anni in Romagna, che, tra l’altro, adoro come regione e per la gente. Non nascondo la grande voglia di ritornarci. Per quanto riguarda la crescita dell’etichetta, è tutto abbastanza visibile. Penso che il nostro team abbia una solidità molto forte, sia a livello italiano sia internazionale.

Come vedi la scena musicale elettronica internazionale? E quella dei locali? Secondo i dati riportati da un recente studio di IMS Ibiza l’isola è in forte crescita (76% in più rispetto al 2019), il settore nel complesso pure (+ 44%)

È una domanda un po’ particolare. Da noi in Sardegna sta diventando un po’ faticoso, lavorare nel settore. C’è una grande confusione tra i tanti stili musicali. Molti sono gli improvvisati, ma a mio avviso ci devono essere anche loro; comunque devono provarci. Qui la musica, in gran parte, e lo dico con tutto rispetto verso chi la fa, è la dance anni ’90. Quindi la possibilità di far conoscere ciò che produci e suoni è davvero ridotta, se fai il produttore.. Da poco siamo stati a Miami e ho visto la differenza con ciò che succede all’estero.. Certo ci sono club che ancora propongono ottima musica anche in Italia, ma sono pochi.

Quali saranno secondo te le tendenze musicali dell’estate?

Osservo una crescita esponenziale della tech house in America. Si avvertono anche poche nuove idee, ma si cerca di trovare spazio e di dare il meglio a livello di produzione musicale. Come facciamo noi su Acetone.

Come vedi la figura del dj in questo periodo? E’ un momento positivo per la dance oppure no?

Credo che siano molti quelli che si affacciano al mondo del DJ, ma con grande rammarico voglio dire che non basta una semplice console; in primis bisogna avere una buona cultura musicale e fare tantissima gavetta. Non è semplice come percorso: ci sono tante cose da vedere e capire pure cosa cerca il pubblico. Per quanto riguarda la musica dance, il futuro potrebbe però essere roseo. Quasi tutte le radio suonano della buona musica e, se un DJ rimane attento nel seguirla, potrebbe essere un buon punto di inizio. Come si dice, “Impara l’arte e mettila da parte”.

Sandro Puddu, perché hai iniziato a fare il dj e perché ancora oggi continui?

Ho iniziato a fare il DJ molto presto, seguendo degli amici tramite radio e altre piccole esperienze. La mia non è stata una strada facile. Ad un certo punto della mia carriera ho deciso di voltare pagina e prendere un percorso solitario, credendo in me stesso. Con un po’ di fortuna e grande dedizione sono arrivato a un punto dove posso dire di essere soddisfatto del mio lavoro. Continuo a fare questo mestiere per una passione fortissima. Mi sto togliendo qualche sassolino dalla scarpa e anche l’aspetto economico, anche se non esagerato, dà le sue grandi soddisfazioni. Comunque, in qualche modo, devi autofinanziarti per sostenere le spese che uno studio da producer comporta per tenerti aggiornato con le nuove tecnologie.

Cos’è per la musica per te in questo momento della tua vita?

La musica per me è tutto: quando viaggio, quando lavoro, quando vivo momenti d’amore, etc. Il mio corpo avverte l’esigenza, anche psicologica, di lasciarsi guidare dalle melodie. In questo periodo sono sbocciate tante cose, cose che neanche io stesso credevo esistessero o potessero nascere. È un percorso affascinante e continuerà ad esserlo. Io, perlomeno, mi lascio ancora trascinare e voglio vivere tante emozioni e scoprire nuove realtà.

[djs-party-edm-italia]

Parla Sandro Puddu (Acetone): fare il dj è prima di tutto passione

Abbiamo incontrato Sandro Puddu, dj producer sardo in forte crescita come tutti gli artisti legati ad Acetone.

Ci racconti una tua release su Acetone a cui sei particolarmente legato?

Senz’altro sono molto legato a ‘Simply the Best’ di Tina Turner. Produrre questo brano è stato come renderle omaggio. La sua scomparsa, tra l’altro, è avvenuta proprio nel periodo in cui ho prodotto questa traccia. Penso che Tina sia stata una delle leggende più influenti del rock. Con questa traccia sono stato in classifica su Beatport per ben sei mesi, e ancora oggi ricevo feedback molto positivi da chi mi segue e mi supporta

Che ci racconti su Acetone, Sandro Puddu? Il progetto è senz’altro in crescita a livello internazionale…

Acetone per me è stata fin da subito un eccellente trampolino di lancio. La conoscenza con Maurizio Nari e il dialogo tra noi è qualcosa di grandioso; siamo molto affiatati nel confrontarci. La sua umiltà ti permette di esporti anche oltre il mondo della produzione. Ho vissuto per ben 23 anni in Romagna, che, tra l’altro, adoro come regione e per la gente. Non nascondo la grande voglia di ritornarci. Per quanto riguarda la crescita dell’etichetta, è tutto abbastanza visibile. Penso che il nostro team abbia una solidità molto forte, sia a livello italiano sia internazionale.

Come vedi la scena musicale elettronica internazionale? E quella dei locali? Secondo i dati riportati da un recente studio di IMS Ibiza l’isola è in forte crescita (76% in più rispetto al 2019), il settore nel complesso pure (+ 44%)

È una domanda un po’ particolare. Da noi in Sardegna sta diventando un po’ faticoso, lavorare nel settore. C’è una grande confusione tra i tanti stili musicali. Molti sono gli improvvisati, ma a mio avviso ci devono essere anche loro; comunque devono provarci. Qui la musica, in gran parte, e lo dico con tutto rispetto verso chi la fa, è la dance anni ’90. Quindi la possibilità di far conoscere ciò che produci e suoni è davvero ridotta, se fai il produttore.. Da poco siamo stati a Miami e ho visto la differenza con ciò che succede all’estero.. Certo ci sono club che ancora propongono ottima musica anche in Italia, ma sono pochi.

Quali saranno secondo te le tendenze musicali dell’estate?

Osservo una crescita esponenziale della tech house in America. Si avvertono anche poche nuove idee, ma si cerca di trovare spazio e di dare il meglio a livello di produzione musicale. Come facciamo noi su Acetone.

Come vedi la figura del dj in questo periodo? E’ un momento positivo per la dance oppure no?

Credo che siano molti quelli che si affacciano al mondo del DJ, ma con grande rammarico voglio dire che non basta una semplice console; in primis bisogna avere una buona cultura musicale e fare tantissima gavetta. Non è semplice come percorso: ci sono tante cose da vedere e capire pure cosa cerca il pubblico. Per quanto riguarda la musica dance, il futuro potrebbe però essere roseo. Quasi tutte le radio suonano della buona musica e, se un DJ rimane attento nel seguirla, potrebbe essere un buon punto di inizio. Come si dice, “Impara l’arte e mettila da parte”.

Sandro Puddu, perché hai iniziato a fare il dj e perché ancora oggi continui?

Ho iniziato a fare il DJ molto presto, seguendo degli amici tramite radio e altre piccole esperienze. La mia non è stata una strada facile. Ad un certo punto della mia carriera ho deciso di voltare pagina e prendere un percorso solitario, credendo in me stesso. Con un po’ di fortuna e grande dedizione sono arrivato a un punto dove posso dire di essere soddisfatto del mio lavoro. Continuo a fare questo mestiere per una passione fortissima. Mi sto togliendo qualche sassolino dalla scarpa e anche l’aspetto economico, anche se non esagerato, dà le sue grandi soddisfazioni. Comunque, in qualche modo, devi autofinanziarti per sostenere le spese che uno studio da producer comporta per tenerti aggiornato con le nuove tecnologie.

Cos’è per la musica per te in questo momento della tua vita?

La musica per me è tutto: quando viaggio, quando lavoro, quando vivo momenti d’amore, etc. Il mio corpo avverte l’esigenza, anche psicologica, di lasciarsi guidare dalle melodie. In questo periodo sono sbocciate tante cose, cose che neanche io stesso credevo esistessero o potessero nascere. È un percorso affascinante e continuerà ad esserlo. Io, perlomeno, mi lascio ancora trascinare e voglio vivere tante emozioni e scoprire nuove realtà.

[tarditardi]

Parla Sandro Puddu (Acetone): fare il dj è prima di tutto passione

Abbiamo incontrato Sandro Puddu, dj producer sardo in forte crescita come tutti gli artisti legati ad Acetone.

Ci racconti una tua release su Acetone a cui sei particolarmente legato?

Senz’altro sono molto legato a ‘Simply the Best’ di Tina Turner. Produrre questo brano è stato come renderle omaggio. La sua scomparsa, tra l’altro, è avvenuta proprio nel periodo in cui ho prodotto questa traccia. Penso che Tina sia stata una delle leggende più influenti del rock. Con questa traccia sono stato in classifica su Beatport per ben sei mesi, e ancora oggi ricevo feedback molto positivi da chi mi segue e mi supporta

Che ci racconti su Acetone, Sandro Puddu? Il progetto è senz’altro in crescita a livello internazionale…

Acetone per me è stata fin da subito un eccellente trampolino di lancio. La conoscenza con Maurizio Nari e il dialogo tra noi è qualcosa di grandioso; siamo molto affiatati nel confrontarci. La sua umiltà ti permette di esporti anche oltre il mondo della produzione. Ho vissuto per ben 23 anni in Romagna, che, tra l’altro, adoro come regione e per la gente. Non nascondo la grande voglia di ritornarci. Per quanto riguarda la crescita dell’etichetta, è tutto abbastanza visibile. Penso che il nostro team abbia una solidità molto forte, sia a livello italiano sia internazionale.

Come vedi la scena musicale elettronica internazionale? E quella dei locali? Secondo i dati riportati da un recente studio di IMS Ibiza l’isola è in forte crescita (76% in più rispetto al 2019), il settore nel complesso pure (+ 44%)

È una domanda un po’ particolare. Da noi in Sardegna sta diventando un po’ faticoso, lavorare nel settore. C’è una grande confusione tra i tanti stili musicali. Molti sono gli improvvisati, ma a mio avviso ci devono essere anche loro; comunque devono provarci. Qui la musica, in gran parte, e lo dico con tutto rispetto verso chi la fa, è la dance anni ’90. Quindi la possibilità di far conoscere ciò che produci e suoni è davvero ridotta, se fai il produttore.. Da poco siamo stati a Miami e ho visto la differenza con ciò che succede all’estero.. Certo ci sono club che ancora propongono ottima musica anche in Italia, ma sono pochi.

Quali saranno secondo te le tendenze musicali dell’estate?

Osservo una crescita esponenziale della tech house in America. Si avvertono anche poche nuove idee, ma si cerca di trovare spazio e di dare il meglio a livello di produzione musicale. Come facciamo noi su Acetone.

Come vedi la figura del dj in questo periodo? E’ un momento positivo per la dance oppure no?

Credo che siano molti quelli che si affacciano al mondo del DJ, ma con grande rammarico voglio dire che non basta una semplice console; in primis bisogna avere una buona cultura musicale e fare tantissima gavetta. Non è semplice come percorso: ci sono tante cose da vedere e capire pure cosa cerca il pubblico. Per quanto riguarda la musica dance, il futuro potrebbe però essere roseo. Quasi tutte le radio suonano della buona musica e, se un DJ rimane attento nel seguirla, potrebbe essere un buon punto di inizio. Come si dice, “Impara l’arte e mettila da parte”.

Sandro Puddu, perché hai iniziato a fare il dj e perché ancora oggi continui?

Ho iniziato a fare il DJ molto presto, seguendo degli amici tramite radio e altre piccole esperienze. La mia non è stata una strada facile. Ad un certo punto della mia carriera ho deciso di voltare pagina e prendere un percorso solitario, credendo in me stesso. Con un po’ di fortuna e grande dedizione sono arrivato a un punto dove posso dire di essere soddisfatto del mio lavoro. Continuo a fare questo mestiere per una passione fortissima. Mi sto togliendo qualche sassolino dalla scarpa e anche l’aspetto economico, anche se non esagerato, dà le sue grandi soddisfazioni. Comunque, in qualche modo, devi autofinanziarti per sostenere le spese che uno studio da producer comporta per tenerti aggiornato con le nuove tecnologie.

Cos’è per la musica per te in questo momento della tua vita?

La musica per me è tutto: quando viaggio, quando lavoro, quando vivo momenti d’amore, etc. Il mio corpo avverte l’esigenza, anche psicologica, di lasciarsi guidare dalle melodie. In questo periodo sono sbocciate tante cose, cose che neanche io stesso credevo esistessero o potessero nascere. È un percorso affascinante e continuerà ad esserlo. Io, perlomeno, mi lascio ancora trascinare e voglio vivere tante emozioni e scoprire nuove realtà.

[summeryshine]

Vote for Devika Rani, one of the pioneering ladies of Indian cinema, who defied so many social conventions of her time. In an era when ladies from respectable families in India didn't opt for a career on the screen, she boldly decided to be a film star.

She's called the First Lady of Indian cinema for a reason!

I mean just look at how stunning she looks. A true Indian beauty of the era. Those eyes and 30s eyebrow game!!!

She's serving some serious looks in every film she's been in.

Just look how radiant and stunning she looks in this shot below from Nirmala (1938).

Also, she holds the record for the longest kiss in Bollywood from Karma (1933). That's a pretty serious record considering it stands even today.

Here's she looking like a dream on celluloid in a still from Nirmala.

Please do not let this incredible woman lose!

This part's for the facts lovers: She co-founded one of the best studios of the era, Bombay Talkies, that made some of the best social films of 1930s Hindi cinema. She acted, produced, designed sets, designed costumes, did hair and make up and even sang and danced on screen. She even mentored and introduced new stars through the Bombay Talkies banner, including big names like Dilip Kumar, Madhubala, Ashok Kumar and propelled existing stars like Leela Chitnis to the peak of stardom. Bombay Talkied introduced Saraswati Devi, one of the first female music directors in Indian cinema.

Propaganda

Deborah Kerr (Bonjour Tristesse, An Affair to Remember, The King and I)— For several decades she held the record for most Oscar nominations without a win (6 in total), and she was a prolific leading lady throughout the 40s and 50s. She's best known today for the romance An Affair to Remember with Cary Grant, and as the governess in The King and I. Many people have this erroneous perception of her as extremely prim, proper, and virginal, but this could not be further from the truth. When she first came to Hollywood under MGM she was typecast into boring decorative roles, but broke sexual boundaries for herself and Hollywood generally in From Here to Eternity, when she made out (horizontally!) with Burt Lancaster (on top of him!) in the famous Beach Scene. She went on to play many sexually conflicted women, a character type that would define most of her post- Eternity work. She continued to break Hays Code boundaries with Tea and Sympathy, which addresses homosexuality/homophobia head-on, and even did a topless scene in The Gypsy Moths 1969!! One of the only classic stars to do so. She deserves a more nuanced and frankly a hotter legacy than she currently has!!!

Devika Rani (Achhut Kanya)—She was grandniece of Rabindranath Tagore (laureate). She was sent to boarding school in England at age nine and grew up there. After completing her schooling, she joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and the Royal Academy of Music to study acting and music, at a time when aristocratic women did not enter showbiz. She studied filmmaking in Berlin. It is well known that she underwent training at the UFA Studios in the art and technique of acting under Eric Pommer, and other aspects of film production including costume and set designing and make-up, under eminent directors like GW Pabst, Fritz Lang, Emil Jannings and Josef von Sternberg. She is also reported to have worked with Marlene Dietrich. She had a multi-faceted personality and took on many responsibilities of film production at Bombay Talkies, a studio that she co-founded with Himanshu Rai in Mumbai in 1934. She often took care of hair and make up, supervised set design and editing, scouted for new talent and mentored them. She was the face of Bombay Talkies, and also the reason behind the political and financial backing the studio received, at a time when even women from red light districts refused to work as actresses. She was the first recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, when it was instituted in 1970.

This is round 3 of the tournament. All other polls in this bracket can be found here. Please reblog with further support of your beloved hot sexy vintage woman.

[additional propaganda submitted under the cut.]

Deborah Kerr:

I think she was one of my first crushes before I realised I was bi in The King and I when I watched it as a kid honestly. The kissing scene in From Here to Eternity is iconic for a reason. Actually tried to learn the accents for the characters she was playing if they weren't English which is more than pretty much anyone else was doing then. Played very restrained characters who frequently seemed to be desperate not to be so restrained. Did horror movies without venturing into hagsploitation tropes. Gave Marni Nixon the credit she deserved for her share of the singing in The King and I.

Anne Larsen is a peak late 1950s bisexual with big MILF energy. Have you seen the behind the scenes pics of her wearing a suit?? Have you????? Vote Deb as Anne Larsen.

Nominated for an Oscar six (6) times and never won, but besides her having actual talent (hot), and besides her looking Like That (very hot, also beautiful), she was always playing women who are, like, crazy repressed. Which makes it fun and easy for me to read these characters as queer. Icon!!!! You know what's hot? Playing ambiguously gay in vintage Hollywood.

Her face and talent and body, yes, ofc, duh. But also!!! Her HANDS!!!! I may be but a simple lesbian, but she is the best hactor (hand actor) that ever lived and that's HOT! For propriety's sake I feel I must redact a large portion of my commentary on this subject. Anyway. She's hot in her most famous roles (mentioned above), and also some of her sexiest hacting is on display in An Affair to Remember (her hand on the bannister when Cary Grant kisses her off-screen??? HELLO???), Tea and Sympathy (when she's trying to persuade Tom not to go out and she keeps flexing her hands like she wants to reach out to him but can't??? ALLY BEHAVIOR! WE STAN!), and The Innocents (which opens and closes with extended shots of her hands bc director Jack Clayton was also an ally and he did that for ME). Much of her appeal also lies in the fact that she often played deeply repressed characters and you know what's hot? When those uptight characters finally unravel. It's sexy. It's cathartic. It's erotic. Plus, she's beautiful to look at in both black & white and technicolor, and the more of her films you see, the more you can't help but fall in love!

Literally is in thee most famously sexy scene of all time (or maybe just during the hays code era which is what we're talking about HELLO), which is the beach scene with Burt Lancaster in from here to eternity. To quote a tumblr post of a screen capture of a tweet of a video of joy behar on the view: "y'know, there used to be movies where they were kissing on the beach... From Here to Eternity. They're kissing-- Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr are Kissing on the Beach and then the WAVES crash!! You know exactly what they did!"

She might have a reputation of being chaste and virginal or whatever, but we all know it's the quiet ones who are certifiable FREAKS

Devika Rani:

Achhut Kanya (1936) is the only one of hers I've seen but hot DAMN

[francesprances]

World Premiere of #DancingintheLight Sat. Feb 11 + Sun. Feb 12 at 3PM at @bindlestiff_sf. We hope to see you there, secure your seat now! https://www.kularts-sf.org/dancing-in-the-light ⁣ 📸 Featured Dance Artists⁣ ⁣ Angel Velez (@angelica.ma3)⁣ Frances Teves Sedayao (@fsedayao)⁣ Dre ‘Poko’ Devis ⁣ Jae Tioseco (@jaetioseco)⁣ Johan Casal (@johancasal)⁣ Sydney Rae Leong (@sendingtinyhearts)⁣ Stephanie Manalo Herrera (@thestephie)⁣ Theo Capulong (@teeyeaux)⁣ (at Bindlestiff Studio) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoiVFrayG36CwUJ9LfRbcyKhQwvDiPSRyB4KXE0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[moonlit-archeress]

✨ dancing girl by vaanarsena studios ✨

[devidancestudio-goddesslife]

Changing Lives One Shimmy At A Time

The Sensational Summer Hafla/ Shimmy Mob Louisville, KY 2024 has concluded. We had a blast on Saturday May 11th here in the Kentuckiana Valley. On World Bellydance Day we gathered together not only to have a good time and catch up, but to help raise money for our local action center, The Center for Woman and Families. 

During the day, Shimmy Mob Louisville gathered on the waterfront and performed while raising money on the Big 4 Walking bridge platform. Truthfully, I was very very tried from all the prep work, checking in to the AirBnB, and communicating with all the performers bout the lineup and any changes we had to make. But everyone showed there support by performing the main choreography and participating in the secondary one which involved audience participation.

This years crew consisted of many people whom had never danced any style before and a few whom had never danced bellydance. 

At the hafla, we had many local performers and supports from around the region as well fellowshipped to the beat of the tunes. Grateful for MarleyVon and Samira for headlining along with myself.  We had a few people not make the evening event, but sent love and shimmies their way. This is one of many gatherings for this year. Be sure to stay tuned to the Devi Dance Studio® website for updates and upcoming events. https://www.DeviDanceStudio.com

The VP of The Center's Marketing and Outside Outreach spent time in Jordan and Egypt. He said he was very impressed and happy to be apart of something like this as it reminded him of his time abroad. 

This made me super grateful. I am glad to have  made all of the food except for the baklava and the roasted veggies. (The veggies and baklava was made by one of the Shimmy Mob participants) I had a feeling there would be people from or spent time or was of the culture at the event. I didn't want them to try the hummus and it not be authentic. lol I noticed most store bought hummus was made with canola or soybean oil and not olive oil. 

Having something positive to do is important to the healing process. It can be one of the key elements in victims becoming survivors. Getting out of victim mode is not easy and looks differently for everyone. It is just as important to be gently with those going though recovery. 

I recently heard something that was very profound and possibly something I have always known, but didn't have the best phrasing. "The opposite of trauma is play." Which when you think about it, is very true. But sometimes allowing yourself to play can be hard as processing the trauma and going through it can be difficult. 

One of the many things abusers do is limit free thinking, play, happy moments, negate the curious nature, limit interactions, and create conditions/environment where brainwashing/or changing/manipulating the narrative as a way to control them or a situation. Some people and places use these tactics to keep people low and instill physiological phrases so later on in life it makes it hard for them as a person to be their authentic self, explore, live, and play. Often times without proper help and support, victims will subconsciously seek out similar emotional limits, people, places, and things thinking they are doing better, but they are not.

There is no shame in getting help, going to counseling/therapy, and belonging to authentic helpful support groups.  It is important to do things that are different, experience different cultures, and learn new things so you can not only reprogram your own thoughts, but to allow the healing process to thrive in your life. Mental and physical health is just as important as having a safe place to live, income, and quality of life.

One of the Goddess Life with Tahulla Setsena Principals is, "You are the only You you have!" Let that sink in. You are important, and have the right to existence just like anyone else. We are not meant to always be subservient, obedient, quite, or limited. Ask questions, have adventures, laugh, sing, dance, create, appreciate, write, think, study, love and live for yourself. It is honorable to do things for and with yourself. Remember you don't need permission from anyone to do the things that are healthy and happy for you in your life.  

Focusing on yourself can be hard to start, but when you do stick with it. It's just like dance. Many people don't even try because they are afraid of not being good at it, it being a waste of time, or what other people think. These limits can hinder your own growth and thoughts because you stop yourself before you even get started. We as a society need to stop focusing on being the most perfect prodigy at something, but should strive for the healthy ability to be motivated in the process of doing things. This can help lower jealous/envious and doubtful emotions which often stop the best outcome in most areas of life. 

Be inspired, but not envious. Allow good counsel, but not gaslighting. Forgiveness is for you and not anyone else. Be gentle with yourself. You are worthy of peace and happiness. Nice and kind are not the same thing. Also allow yourself to know the difference and how it feels to be held accountable, but not disrespected. Allow yourself to recognize those who are comfortable with hindering you, for they not your friends or family. There is no shame in leaving and saying no. You owe it to yourself to do better for you by you. 

Not everyday will be perfect and there may be times where you don't have the energy to go forth and prosper. That is okay. It's not really healthy to give 110% at everything you do all the time. Rest, existing, and fulfillment will be different for everyone. Celebrating and being safe with these difference could be the vibe your heart needs. 

To find out about Shimmy Mob (A world wide organization) go to: https://www.ShimmyMob.com

For more info about The Center for Woman and Families visit: https://www.thecenteronline.org and to donate on behalf of Shimmy Mob Louisville, KY/Kentuckiana use our unique link of: https://tinyurl.com/ShimmyMob

To donate to Devi Dance Studio® so we can help bring things like this and many others to the community visit: http://paypal.me/devidancestudious Feel free to follow Devi Dance Studio® on various social media outlets and on our website: https://www.DeviDanceStudio.com 

Hugs until the next article,

Tahulla Setsena <3 

[karlheinz-sama]

allow me all the things -

I do not deserve

Modern AU - Karl + Devyn

The clouds were thick and ominous, there was no doubt the thunderstorm would leave the trees quaking, however in the quiet of his dorm it was almost idyllic. His dorm if it could be called that was a vast space of trinkets that had caught his attention. The sheets around him rustled as he sat up, he was meant to pick up his darling devy from her studio today.

He loved watching her dance, he saw how her eyes would light up in all her excellence in quick flicks or delightful arcs and fast paced movements that had him entranced.

He could never understand how she chose him, she was a smart girl and yet somehow when the god's had chosen to turn him into a fool who took far too long to realize he was already enthralled and when he told her she laughed right in his face in the stunning way her eyes crinkled and her nose scrunched up she smacked his arm and continued finishing her make up whilst he stood there like a moron. The worst part, he didn't even mind. HIM. He just sat there and placed her earnings on the vanity whilst his collar felt too tight and for some reason he felt the urge to take his hair out of the hideous bun it was put in so he could cover the blush he knew was visible high upon his cheekbones and ears.

She'd recently told him about a friend, he's not surprised she naturally attracts people but people who pique her interest were rare. It had been a horrible week for him, his Latin partner had gotten into a family feud with his inheritance leaving him to decode their chapter due in 2 days by himself, it wasn't difficult by any means but it was frustrating to fit into his schedule. Not to mention the toddler tantrum Ritcher had thrown over the most family dinner which nearly turned their father purple with rage - actually that was an amusing situation - having to deal with the aftermath as the eldest was not. But now it was finally time for their traditional fortnight meet up.

Dressing up for him was an art his sisters had always said his unique colour palette allowed him options, and of course humans were vain creatures who based opinions on they viewed things, but for tonight a semi formal midnight blue suit would do. Look at him and devy said he was uptight at this rate he might even start wearing,, sweatpants? God forbid.

By the time he arrived it wasn't necessarily early but he wasn't a slob so it was a respectable time, ah there she was.

-------------------------------------------------------

"Karl you don't understand, she's absolutely hilarious. And sweet she didn't even expect anything when she paid for my coffee-

Well this was certainly not how he expected the night to go, see when he agreed to meet "aurora" he thought that'd be it, what he doesn't expect is distracted small talk in the car and as soon as he agrees to meeting her friend at the restaurant, the floodgates are open and right now honestly he could probably wax poetry about aurora without even meeting her himself.

"Darling" interrupting a lady is something he certainly doesn't do often but if push comes to shove, " you don't even know her that well, but it's obvious she's made an impression on you, and I cannot wait to meet her she seems like someone completely different to us, but I'm sure there are gems of people in parts of her neighbourhood too of course -ah yes of course I don't mean to demean her don't give me that look however if we do keep talking I'm afraid your steak is going to get cold my dear"

" See Karl this is your issue, you're one of my closest friends" ouch. " And aurora is amazing literally meeting up at our café is becoming one of the best things to happen in my week" double ouch. He couldn't deny even riled up she was gorgeous her eyebrows furrowing like she thought he wasn't taking her seriously, which he is of course. She's an intelligent girl so he tells her.

" Darling I'm sure she's an amazing person, you are after all a great judge of character and I'm sure my expectations will not be let down considering how loyally you're vouching for her, but I'm afraid your father will simply not let me take you out to dinner if I take you back to the Kang estate without having eaten anything and I apologize for my prejudiced views" See who said he was too prideful, he understood he had certain flaws and he was willing to correct them if they weren't justifiable.

However even after dropping devyn back home he could not feel as if he wasn't able to convince her how truly he trusted her word, she was after all someone who he held dear and discarding her opinion simply will not do.

Again this is what he meant by devyn most definitely would be his downfall all in one night, he's managed to run around town trying to find a decent flower shop before they close, luckily he found a decent boquet made of white tulips, blue hydrangea and baby's breath. And now like some ruffian he was climbing over the Kang estate defences with far too much ease he might add he should bring this up with her.

oh.

Oh.

It was raining, absolutely pouring down but it's okay now all he had to do was reach her balcony, and finally she notices him - and well now she looks furious. Oops he truly does pity the man who manages to piss her off which is him but she's opening her balconies door, and he already looks like some soddy wet cat so he'll hope she'll go easy on him

" KARLHEINZ, what on earth are you doing here?" See she wasn't necessarily screaming but the amount of force in her voice he thinks is quite unnecessary.

" ah hello my dear well you see I completely for got to bring you a bouquet today and my behaviour was appalling I do hope these appease you even a bit..and perhaps you could let me in?"

"oh you idiot" but the hug was quite nice he supposes his efforts do pay off.

[salmankhanholics]

★The latest rager, ‘Seeti Maar’, the first track of Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai, to release on Monday!

April 24, 2021 

The trailer of one of the most awaited films of the year, Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai, landed on April 22, and the reception of the same was nothing short of grand. It was expectedly one of the top trending subjects of discussion all over social media in the country.

Ever since the trailer released, audiences in general and Salman Khan fans, in particular, have been jonesing for more and more peeks into the songs of the film. The trailer gave a glimpse of one of the tracks from the film titled 'Seeti Maar' and even though the audience got to hear just a little bit of the actual song, it has been quite a rage, with quirky versions made by the audiences popping all over social media.

The song is officially releasing on Monday and the makers recently released a poster of the song, exhibiting a silhouette of Disha's still from the number. The anticipation sure seems to be growing by the moment. 'Seeti Maar' is the first song of the film to be released. Going by what we could hear in the trailer, this particular track seems to be quite an energetic dance number. It should be a treat to watch and listen to, considering the fact that the dance number features Salman Khan himself alongside Disha Patani. Given the kind of response the trailer and the 'Seeti Maar' cameo have been receiving so far from the masses, it seems the track will land straight on the top of the music charts and end up being a party anthem.

The music of the track has been composed by Devi Sri Prasad, and Shabbir Ahmad is the lyricist. Kamaal Khan and Iulia Vantur are the vocalists. Shaikh Jani Basha is the choreographer of this peppy dance number.

Alongside Salman Khan, Radhe also stars Disha Patani, Randeep Hooda and Jackie Shroff in pivotal roles. The movie is presented by Salman Khan films in association with ZEE Studios, produced By Salma Khan, Sohail Khan and Reel Life Production Pvt. limited. The movie will release in over 40 countries, including a theatrical release in major overseas markets on May 13 2021, on the occasion of Eid. The film will be available on ZEE5 with ZEE's pay per view service ZeePlex on the Zee5 OTT platform and all leading DTH operators.

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

There’s More To Her #8

Previous Chapter

All Chapters

A Touch of Fantasy

AR boasted one of the largest and most prestigious photo studios in India. From supermodels to millionaires - they had all been dressed and photographed here. The likes of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar often graced their covers on shoots held in this space. So nothing should have fazed Arnav Singh Raizada about the beauty and potential of the studio he owned.

Except this was the second time his heart skipped a beat. The first time, it had nothing to do with the studio - it was all about a woman dressed in a gossamer, scarlet red saree.

The lights were dimmed to mimic moonlight. Tall trees, with fairy lights for leaves, twinkled in the darkness. Translucent, stone studded drapes hung, filtering and reflecting the lights on their crystals. At the center was a white table, with matching chairs. There was a small candle, silver cutlery on the table and a few white roses scattered around the studio.

An artificial pond was constructed on both sides of the seating, with hundred floating candles, bathing the entire room in a soft, warm glow. Akash didn’t realise when Payal held his hand. They walked into the studio, in a trance, half in love with the beauty of everything and with each other.

The blue light, golden candles, transparent crystal studded drapes, Payal’s purple salwar and Akash’s white suit was aesthetically… perfect.

Khushi thought of all of this? Arnav turned to her, but was rendered speechless by her soft smile.

“Thank you Arnav ji, Aman ji had told me that you strictly instructed money not to be taken into account for Jiji’s first date-” Khushi’s breath hitched and smile fell at the intensity of his dark gaze. Many nights ago, he had looked at her in the exact manner. No, he couldn’t look at her like this. Not now, not when it was impossible.

“Khushi!” Arnav and Khushi snapped out of their eyelock as Payal ran and grabbed Khushi in her arms, swinging her in excitement.

“Why… you didn’t have to work so hard? When did you find the time? Khushi you shouldn’t have!” Payal fretted but couldn’t stop smiling. Khushi laughed and jumped in equal fervor.

“Offo Jiji, first tell me whether you like it or not.” Khushi asked.

“Like it? Khushi ji this is beyond what either of us expected!” Akash, finally finding words and Payal’s hand, told Khushi.

“Exactly, it’s as if we have-” Payal began, “-entered a fantasy.” Akash completed. Payal and Akash looked at each other, and immediately looked away, blush creeping up their cheeks.

“Alright, it’s our time to go.” Arnav said. No matter how enchanted he was by the setup, another minute of Akash and Payal’s romance would send him to the hospital for blood sugar - even if he wasn’t diagnosed with diabetes.

Khushi, on the other hand, scowled at the interruption. She wanted to sit and watch the entire exchange. Nothing interested her more than romance. In reality. Or on television. Or both - Kamlesh Tha Khabri Ab Pandit Ji, a show where her favorite news anchor married brides and grooms across the country was her current obsession.

“No really Khushi ji, this is very… very…” Akash cracked a wide toothed smile, the fashion analyst and romantic in him too satisfied by what he saw.

“Beautiful,” Arnav murmured. Khushi stiffened, noticing that Arnav wasn’t looking at the setup at all. In bringing out the best for Payal, Khushi had bared her heart and fantasies in front of the one man who quashed it all down. This was a mistake.

“You’ve nearly done better than Bhansali.” Akash brought Khushi out of her thoughts. And just like that, Khushi’s worries disappeared.

“Hey Devi Maiya! Really?” Khushi shrieked.

“Bhansali? Is he a photographer or-” Arnav frowned, the name seeming familiar.

“-arrey Sanjay Leela Bhansali! Hindi film director.”

“Of course,” Arnav muttered.

“He’s known for his grand designs. Also, he has worked with everyone - Amitabh Bachchan ji, Aishwarya ji, Shah Rukh ji, Salman ji-” Khushi gushed, “-but Akash ji, you’re quick to catch my reference. And you’re being too kind!” Akash scoffed at her humility.

“No way! It’s one thing to see a song and another to bring it to life. This is a replica of Chand Chupa-”

“Baadal Main!” Khushi shrieked, yanking a bemused Payal’s hand. If anything, Akash and Khushi’s budding friendship only made her fall faster and harder Akash.

“No, the moon does not hide. Scientifically it’s a matter of perception-” Khushi and Akash simultaneously rolled their eyes.

“They’re talking about a song in a film.” Payal clarified. Arnav had the grace not to turn red out of embarrassment.

“Yes, I was only speaking about the futility of this metaphor. Thank goodness I’ve never seen such films-” Payal signaled Arnav to stop talking. He did, after noticing Khushi gawking at him.

“You… you’ve NEVER SEEN Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam?!”

“No-” Arnav, belatedly caught Payal miming a movement of a belt buckle. What the hell? Payal wears belts? What shitty move is this? Oh shit… is this a Salman Khan film?

“And you’ve NEVER seen Chand Chupa Badal Main?” Khushi emphasized, forgetting the man in front of her refrained from almost any and every Salman Khan film.

“Chand Chupa Badal Main!” She stressed, wildly gesticulating to the entire studio. Arnav nodded negatively. Payal’s plan to rescue Arnav from Khushi’s hysteria was interrupted with Akash handing her a white rose. It was a nice interruption.

Khushi unpinned her dupatta and lifted the white translucent fabric high in the air. The faint glow of the candles and moonlight danced across her face.

“Chand Chupa-” Khushi’s smile halted at his haunted eyes. Arnav’s hand itched to pull the fabric away. Against every will, his hand rose.

“Khushi ji,” Akash said. Arnav froze and violently tucked his hand back into his pocket. Khushi dropped her dupatta like a hot coal. “Bhai has not even seen the film, so the song’s a long shot! But I have-”

It’s the precise moment Akash realized his brother was staring at him.

“I have… heard, heard about my film. During my tenth board exams, when I left for tuition classes - my friends told me about the film. I did not watch it. I did not skip classes - Bhai you know me.” Payal gripped Akash’s arm to stop his verbal diarrhea.

“Your tenth grade results suddenly make a lot of sense.” Arnav folded his arms, staring at a pale Akash.

“What are you saying Bhai?! I got ninety four percent, despite watching-” Payal pinched his arm. Khushi, if not worried about her to-be-brother-in-law’s future at the hands of his brother, would have cooed at Payal’s concern.

“-birds.” Akash croaked, “and Bhai, you were anyways miles away at Harvard. It’s not that you would’ve known-”

“Known how wonderfully talented Khushi is!” Payal interjected. Akash nodded, so quickly that Khushi was afraid his head might fall off. Seriously, what’s the big deal? It’s not that Arnav ji would kill Akash ji for watching a Salman Khan film!

Khushi opened her mouth to pacify the Laad Governor, and with one look she chose to her right to remain silent. Arnav positively glowered, and because of the dim light one wouldn’t see the smoke fuming out of his nose and ears.

“I love how pretty this is!” Payal continued, “The fairy lights, roses, moonlight, pond, table, chair, candles” Payal pointed at each element.

“Candles… Khushi, you told Aman to switch off the fire sprinklers for the studio, right?” Arnav turned to a very still Khushi.

“Khushi ji must have done that, she’s worked here before.” Akash supported her.

“Exactly,” Arnav glared at her.

“A few-” Arnav raised an eyebrow, “-hundred candles won’t cause any trouble-” Khushi whispered and at that precise moment, the fire sprinklers activated with an alarm.

The candles, studio’s decorations, Akash’s dreams, Payal’s expectations and Khushi’s plans were sufficiently doused.

---

With Payal in the washroom and Akash in the AR wardrobe, post his wise decision of bringing spare clothes for the rest, Khushi murmured a prayer as Arnav dragged her to Akash’s office.

He pushed back his wet hair and thumped an empty vase in the center of Akash’s table.

“Ar-”

“Shut up!” He stormed to his cabin and returned, a bunch of white roses in his hand. With brutal force he pushed the stems into the vase. Khushi stood in the corner, her hands folded ahead of her like a naughty child punished by a school teacher.

Arnav grumbled, the fairy light trees were- thankfully - waterproof. As Arnav bent to pick one heavy tree up, Khushi edged forward to help.

“Don’t!” He barked. She quickly resumed to her position, fidgeting with the edge of her wet dupatta.

“Fuck!” He exclaimed as none of the lights switched on. Khushi tiptoed by him and put the plug into the socket. Arnav glared at her as the lights came to life. He removed his wet coat, vest and tie and handed it to her.

“Ar-”

“Just stand here.” He ordered and rolled back his sleeves. With a swift squat he picked up two heavy trees and deposited them on the corners of Akash’s office.

“Unbelievable! You are unbelievable Khushi Kumari Gupta! THIS was your plan? Tell me, does any stupid song of yours have a rain sequence?” Arnav huffed.

“Tip tip barsa pani-” Khushi squeaked as Arnav shot her a glare, “No I mean you asked about a rain song… no of course that’s not going to come into real life! You don’t have to be upset - it’s not a Salman Khan song!” She stepped back as Arnav marched towards her, his anger rising at every statement.

“It’s Akshay ji and Raveena ji’s song. He wears a brown suit while she wears a yellow saree an-and I’m sorry!” Khushi clutched her eyes shut.

“I don’t care who’s song it is! I don’t care what they’re wearing. This is Akash’s first date with a woman he wants to marry and that’s all I care about!” Arnav growled and slapped his palm against the wall.

“I didn’t do this purposely! And it’s not just your brother’s first date - it’s also my sister’s!” Khushi jutted her chin, matching his temperament. How dare he accuse her! It was just an accident! But his eyes bored into hers, as if he believed she was intentionally capable of ruining things.

“Why is it so easy for you to believe the worst of me?” Khushi choked up. Arnav lost his grip, his palms slid off the wall, his anger replaced by confusion.

“I don’t-”

“Bhai, Payal and I got some clothes for you and Khushi ji,” Arnav and Khushi sprang away from each other.

“You’re wearing-”

“A brown suit. And I took the liberty of getting a charcoal grey one for-” Akash stopped, realising Arnav and Khushi were gawking at him.

“What happened?”

Payal had appeared, draped in a canary yellow saree.

Khushi, warily, turned to a shocked Arnav.

“You’re fucking kidding me!”

---

Glossary:

Dupatta = stole, Chaand Chupa Baadal Main = the moon hides in the clouds (a song in the film, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam), Offo = a common expression in Hindi-Urdu speaking regions, used for expressing the feeling for something that is just too much, something like Oh My God, Oh Man!, etc., Kamlesh Tha Khabri Ab Pandit Ji = Kamlesh was a new journalist, now he’s a priest, Tip Tip Barsa Pani = water fell, drop by drop (a song in the film, Mohra). 

A/N: I hope you all liked this update. But what's important is the #BlackLivesMatter protests happening in America across the world. Let's support in any and every way we can.

Study. Support. Speak.

Love,

S

Also read it on: Wattpad

[snappedsky]

Fanatics 72

Devi and Johnny attend a fancy party. Previous! Next!

--

The Social

           “-it’d be a great opportunity-.”

           “Mom…”

           “-there’ll be lots of people-.”

           “Mom.”

           “-you might even meet a man-.”

           “Mom!”

           Devi buries her face in her hands. During their one year trip through space, she found herself missing her family and resolved to visit them when she returned. Now she’s very much regretting that decision.

           “I’ve told you a million times,” Devi says sternly, “I hate. Going. To parties.”

           “I know, dear,” her mom, Marylyn, replies calmly, “but after your yearlong disappearance, don’t you think it’s time you finally did something with your life?”            Devi groans. She didn’t tell her parents the truth behind her trip- not that they’d believe it- so they think she just went on some kind of pilgrimage. Which actually isn’t that far off.

           “I am gonna do something with my life,” Devi insists, “I’m an artist, remember.”            “But when was the last time you made any money off your art?” Marylyn asks.

           She sputters, offended. “We-it-it-I-I haven’t a chance yet. I just got back two weeks ago. Things will pick up.”

           “Devi,” Marylyn says sternly, “I really wish you could follow your dreams but you need to be realistic. You have bills to pay, groceries to buy. You don’t wanna end up homeless, peddling your paintings on the street, do you?”

           Devi groans with annoyance.

           “Now, at this social, there will be plenty of upper management workers for many high level businesses,” she continues, “if you were to meet them, they could put in a good word for you and you could get a very high paying job.”

           “Great, be a desk jockey,” Devi growls, “I’d rather slit my wrists.”

           “Okay, that’s enough,” Devi’s dad, Roger, finally speaks up. “Marylyn, if she doesn’t want to go to the party, you can’t make her. But, Devi, your mother is right. You need to be more realistic and consider your future.”            Devi looks away, seething with irritation.

           Later that night, she’s lying on the floor of her studio, flipping a paintbrush between her fingers.

           Making a living through her art has always been the plan and it’s always been hard. She’s had moments of weakness but she’s never wanted to give up. And where has it gotten her? The only job she had that involved painting was with NERVE Publishing, and that sure didn’t work out.

           Sighing heavily, she stares at the blank canvas hanging over her. Mocking her with its blankness. Her dad’s words swirl around in her mind. He’s always been so supportive of her. Have things really gotten so bad that even he’s losing hope?

           She sighs again, dropping the paintbrush.

---

           “You want me to what?” Johnny asks incredulously.

           “Don’t make me repeat myself,” Devi groans.

           “A party? Really?”

           “Not a party, a social.”

           “What’s the difference?”

           “It’s fancier,” Tenna remarks, leaning over the arm of his couch.

           Johnny groans, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Why me?”

           “I don’t wanna go alone,” Devi replies, “and I can’t bring Tenna. She’ll stand out too much.”

           “And I won’t?” he scoffs, “people go out of their way to stare at me in restaurants.”

           “You at least know how to be quiet,” she argues.

           “Whaddya mean?” Tenna snorts, “I can be hella quiet.”            They both stare at her incredulously before Devi looks back at Johnny. “Look, just…come with me, please?”

           Johnny groans loudly and immaturely. “What day is it?”

           “Saturday.”

           “That’s in two days!”

           “It’s tomorrow.”

           “Fuck!”

           “What’s all this screaming about?” Cammie asks as she rolls in from the kitchen.

           “Johnny is accompanying Devi to a social,” Tenna replies.

           “Oh, wow, that takes me back,” she snorts, “I had to attend a ton of socials with my parents when I was about your age. Don’t you worry, Devi, I’ll get him cleaned up for it. You won’t even recognize him.”

           “Thanks, Cammie,” Devi smiles weakly, “it starts at 8 so you’ll have to pick me up at 5:30, just to be safe.”            “Ugh, fine,” Johnny groans, folding his arms like a scolded toddler.

           That Saturday evening, Devi does some last minute touch-ups to her makeup in the bathroom. Or she tries to, but her hands are shaking too much. So she just grips the counter in aggravation.

           “This is a bad idea,” she states.

           “Hey, maybe you’ll have fun,” Tenna suggests, leaning against the doorway.

           “Not likely,” Devi grunts as she slips by her.

           Stopping in the living room, she incessantly taps her foot and checks the time. It’s not 5:30 yet but Johnny is always late. She can’t afford to be late to this thing if she wants to make a good first impression.

           She groans and squeezes her arms as she paces around.

           “Look, D, if you don’t wanna go to this thing, then don’t,” Tenna says.

           “No, no, I-I wanna go,” Devi insists, “or…at least I should.”

           “But you’re like super stressed.”            “It’s just because I haven’t been to any kind of social event since before we went to space,” she points out, “I’ll be fine once I’m there…probably.”

           They both perk up at a knock at the door.

           “Ooh, I’ll get it,” Tenna chirps and races over. Devi stays where she is, sighing heavily and hanging her head. She looks up when Tenna exclaims excitedly and steps aside, gesturing dramatically.

           “M’lady, your date,” she says as Johnny walks in. He’s dressed in a three piece black suit and tie with his hair smoothed back. He’d be almost unrecognizable if it wasn’t for his permanent scowl and pouty slouch.

           “Don’t call me that,” he growls and faces Devi. His scowl disappears in a flash when he sees her. Her black hair has been styled to have tight curls at the ends and she’s wearing dark purple lipstick to match her beautiful purple dress with spaghetti straps and a slit up the right side, with black pumps.

           “What?” she grunts, starting to feel a little self-conscious.

           “Nothing,” he says quickly, looking away. “You uh look nice.”

           “Oh. Thanks,” she replies, “uh so do you.”            They both stare at the floor in awkward silence.

           “You two are so cute,” Tenna comments, popping up in between them before pushing them out the door. “Now get out there and have fun, you crazy kids.”

           As they both stumble into the hallway, she slams the door behind them and they look back incredulously.

           “She knows that’s my apartment, right,” Devi grunts.

           They both shrug apathetically and head out.

           After getting into Johnny’s car, they begin the 1-2 hour drive across the city, depending on the traffic which is always bad. They’re mostly quiet and just listen to the radio. But the sound of Devi’s incessant tapping on her arms catches Johnny’s attention, and he eyes her curiously.

           “So why do you wanna go to this thing?” he asks, “doesn’t seem like you.”

           Devi hesitates for a second. “…I just thought I should try meeting some people.”            “But you hate people,” he points out.

           “Yeah,” she sighs, “but it’s…I don’t know. Important, I guess.”

           “Hmm,” Johnny grunts, unconvinced, but drops the subject. For now.

          They arrive at the venue around eight o’clock. It’s in a penthouse of a fancy, expensive hotel. As they pull into the parking lot, Johnny eyes everyone going inside with disgust.

           “Prissy, self-important, sticks-up-their-asses…” he mumbles incessantly.

           “Be nice,” Devi warns, “or at least don’t do anything.”            They exit the car and go into the hotel. Both of them immediately feel out of place in such an expensive looking place, like if they just look at a vase for too long it might crack.

           They walk briskly to the elevator and enter it with two other couples in nice clothing.

           “Are you going to the social too?” one of the women asks.

           “Uh yeah,” Devi replies, smiling awkwardly.

           “I’ve never seen you there before. First time?”

           “Yes.”

           “Oh, you’ll enjoy it. It’s simply lovely. Good food, nice folk.”

           “Th-that’s good,” Devi comments, trying to be polite. Meanwhile Johnny doesn’t even try to mask his scowl.

           The elevator arrives and they exit into a large room. On the far wall is a giant window overlooking the city; the wall to their left has a doorway leading to a big balcony. In the middle of the room is a long table with lots of different kinds of finger foods and punch. And clustered throughout are groupings of rich folk, their chatter mixing into a cacophony of “stock market” and “economy”.

           Directly outside the elevator is a suited man with a notebook who is checking off the names of guests.

           “Hello there,” he says politely as Devi and Johnny approach. “Names please?”

           “Um Devi D,” she replies.

           “Ah yes, your mother said you were coming,” he says and Devi visibly cringes. “And this is?”

           “Uh this is Johnny, my…um…”            “Date?”

           They both rankle at the word but don’t argue and he marks down Johnny’s name.

           “Okay, enjoy the party,” he says and they pass.

           “Hoooookay,” Devi sighs heavily as she looks around. Most everyone is grouped up, like a middle school dance. But there are a few by themselves at the food table. They seem to be scanning the room, like her, but more analytically and less fearfully.

           A rustling by her side breaks Devi’s train of thought and she glares at Johnny as he tugs at his tie.

           “Would you stop that,” she hisses.

           “I hate it,” he whines, “a noose is more comfortable.”

           “Just-.” She smacks his hand away and takes a deep breath. “Just stay here and don’t do anything.”

           He huffs and folds his arms as she walks away to the food table.

           “Be confident,” she tells herself as she approaches a well-dressed man holding a glass of punch.

           “Hello,” she says, waving to him. “I’m Devi.”

          Her skin crawls as he looks her up and down, but she maintains her smile and he smiles back.

           “Hello, Devi,” he says and shakes her hand. “I’m James. It’s a pleasure.”

           “Likewise,” she replies, “so, James, what is it you do?”

           “I am so glad you asked,” he purrs and hands her a business card. “I am CEO of High Rise Banks.”

           “High Rise?” Devi questions as she looks at his card. They were the second biggest bank in the city, before Mussolini banks went under.

           “Yes,” James says proudly, “as you can imagine, our stocks have really risen since Celio Mussolini passed, may he rest in peace.”

           “Uh, he’s not dead,” she points out.

           “Yes, but he might as well be. His reputation is ruined.”

           Devi struggles not to roll her eyes and smiles instead. “That’s really interesting, James. I bet working in such a…lucrative bank is a great opportunity.”

           “It sure is,” he beams, “and a beautiful woman such as yourself would be a great secretary. Why don’t you give me a call sometime and we’ll set up an interview?”

           Devi fights every urge in her body to gut-punch the creep and maintains her smile. “Great. Happy to.”

           “Fantastic,” James purrs before walking away.

            As soon as he’s gone, a heavy sigh heaves through Devi’s body and her smile drops like a ten ton weight. She looks at the business card again. This is good. She probably has a high chance of receiving a job now because of this. It’s good…right?

           A heavy pit grows in her stomach as she stares at the card and she sighs again.

           “What’s that?”

           “Fu-!” she bites her tongue to keep from shouting ‘Fuck!’ as she spins around to Johnny, peeking over her shoulder.

           “I told you to stay put,” she hisses.

           “I saw you talking to that guy and got curious,” Nny shrugs, “I caught most of it. You were really talking out your ass. You don’t care about ‘High End Banks’ or whatever the fuck.”

           “No,” Devi admits as she pockets the card. “But I need a job.”

           “So you wanna work with these pretentious assholes?”

           “It’s not about what I wanna do, it’s about what I have to do,” she states and turns away. “Why don’t you eat some snacks or something and don’t bother me.”

           Johnny watches her walk away, eyes narrowing suspiciously.

           Devi spends about an hour talking to people around the party. She didn’t notice before, but most of them are rich, self-important, pompous, creepy white men, sometimes with pretty women hanging off their shoulders like a trophy. And they’re always happy to talk to another beautiful woman, especially when she keeps smiling at everything they say.

           It really leaves a disgusting taste in Devi’s mouth.

           Johnny watches the whole thing from the table, scrutinizingly observing Devi’s every move. He refuses to interfere, even when a group of women hanging around one older man laugh and insult her like teen girls, and she doesn’t snap back. Not even when another man gets a little too close into her personal space and she doesn’t even step back.

           But Johnny can feel himself at his limit when a third man starts getting too touchy. He takes Devi’s hand and starts rubbing her arm. Johnny spots Devi’s other hand twitching, like she wants to slap him. But she doesn’t.

           As the man reaches her shoulder, Johnny steps in, grabbing his arm and pulling it back.

           “Johnny!” Devi exclaims.

           “Who the-!” the man starts to bark but freezes up when Johnny glares at him. Johnny lets go of his limp arm and leads Devi away, despite her protests.

           “Johnny! Stop! What are you-!” she snaps as he leads her out onto the balcony, letting her go as he closes the door behind them.

           “Why didn’t you punch that guy?” he asks, “I can tell you wanted to.”

           “Of course I fucking wanted to,” she snaps, “I want to punch everyone in there! But I can’t. I’m trying to get these people to like me. And I told you to stop bothering me!”

           “Then why’d you bring me here!”

           She stops, unable to answer.

           Johnny takes a deep breath to calm down. “Look. The only reason I didn’t snap that guy’s arm and disembowel him with the punch ladle is because I know this is important to you. But I’m not just gonna watch you degrade yourself.”

           “What choice do I have?” she asks hopelessly, “nothing has been working out the way I want it to. I need a job if I’m gonna survive and art is just…is not working out.”

           “Have you even tried?” Johnny asks, “we just got back from space like a week ago.”

           “Two weeks.”

           “Whatever.”

           Devi sighs and looks off the balcony silently, rubbing her arms from the chill of the night air.

           “Why are you trying to be this person?” Nny asks, “what happened to the badass Devi who never took anyone’s shit? Who helped sabotage an alien ship? Who kicked my ass?”

           Devi chuckles lightly but quickly grows somber again. “I don’t know. Maybe my parents are in my head but…I just think…maybe I should start acting like an adult.”

           “And who decided this is what being an adult is?” he questions, gesturing to the party. “Granted, I don’t know what it is, but it doesn’t have to be this. Right?”

           She doesn’t reply, just looks into the party forlornly.

           Johnny sighs and leans against the railing, folding his arms. “Look, I’m not gonna tell you how to live your life. If this is what you want, I’ll…I’ll stay out of it.”

           Devi smiles at him gratefully and looks back at the party, then at the city skyline off the balcony. What does she want?            “Right now…” she mumbles, “all I want is to…enjoy this view.”

           Johnny looks at her with surprise before turning to the city. “It is a nice view.”            They stare a second longer when the door opens.

           “Devi, everything okay?” James asks as he walks out.

           “Uh, yeah,” she replies, “everything’s fine.”

           “That’s good,” he says, “so, listen, why don’t you join me at my after party at my house? Some other guests are coming, as well as some friends.”

           “Ah, no, I don’t think so,” Devi says, staring at the floor.

           “Oh, come on,” James insists and steps closer. Johnny’s eyes narrow angrily but he forces himself to stay put. “A pretty girl like you; you’d be the center of attention.”

           James reaches forward and gently brushes his finger against Devi’s cheek, and her patience snapping is nearly audible.

           She slaps James across the face, knocking him off his feet. He’s so in shock, he doesn’t even move; just lies there, rubbing his aching cheek. Johnny is surprised too by her sudden shift, but even more pleased.

           “That’s it. That’s fucking it!” Devi shouts as she leaves the balcony, everyone staring at her with bewilderment. “Fuck this shit! I am sick of trying to live my life everyone else’s way. I’m gonna become a freelance artist even if it kills me!”

           She stomps to the food table, taking out all the business cards she’s earned tonight, tearing them to pieces, and dropping them in the punch bowl.

           “Johnny!” she barks.

           “Coming,” he chimes, stepping over the still shocked James- but not before giving him a quick kick in the gut- and racing after her. They enter the elevator and leave behind a really stunned party.

           They’re quiet as they get into Johnny’s car and drive away. Then Nny asks, “so…what now?”

           Devi takes a couple deep breaths, running her fingers through her hair. “I know where we should go.”

           A little while later, they arrive at the hill where they had their first date, a long time ago. Leaving behind their uncomfortable shoes, as well as Johnny’s tie and coat, they get out and sit on the hood.

           Devi breathes the air deeply before stretching and sighing happily, lying back against the windshield.

           “Fuck,” she breathes, “it feels like…a huge weight was just removed from my shoulders. What a waste of time all that was.”

           “Yeah,” Nny agrees, “still, pretty worth it to see you floor that asshole.”

           “Yeah,” she chuckles.

           They’re quiet for a second as they stare at the stars.

           “Thanks for coming with me,” Devi says.

           “No problem,” Nny replies.

[voicesfromthelight]

My Dance Guru Pays Me A  Visit from Spirit

In connection with my post on astral party-crashers, I recently gave an example or two of how Spirit can use social media to let us know they are with us, or convey messages through synchronicity. Last night, I was blessed with a very special instance of this, and would like to share it with you to show how portentous these little nudges from Spirit can be, if we keep our feelers out and our eyes open.

To fully convey the emotional impact of this experience, I will need to frame this story with a little bit about my background.

For many years of my early life, starting around the age of five, I developed an inexplicably intense fascination with Indian and Hindu culture. This was accompanied by a feeling of longing so deep, I felt like I belonged there, and had been born in the wrong place - as if I had been there in a past life, and was still somewhat stuck in that previous identity.

One of the outlets I eventually found for this longing was through studying the classical Indian dance form, Bharata Natyam, starting at the age of eight. I was lucky enough to be instructed by a woman named Indrani Rahman - whom I knew simply as Indrani. The reverence I felt for Indrani cannot be overstated. She was my guru. Her mother, known as Ragini Devi, American by birth, had been one of the pioneers of classical Indian dance in the West, and had also helped to revive the art form in India itself during her lifetime. Years later, I was to learn that Indrani, in addition to being a highly respected dancer, had also been crowned Miss India in 1952, but my childhood self could hardly have been more in awe of her had she been the actual Hindu goddess whose name she bore.

The way in which I parted ways with Indrani left a profound mark on me. Throughout the year that I studied with her, in between dancing, Indrani would hint at the cultural stringencies inherent in the teacher-disciple relationship in classical Indian traditions. The comment that always stayed with me was this: “You know, Emily, in India, if you insult your guru, and they throw you out, you can come back crawling on your hands and knees, and they won’t have you back.” Little did I know what it foreshadowed.

After a year of studying with her in New York City, my mother and I were about to move to Finland. I had one last lesson left. Bharata Natyam is a dance form that incorporates pantomime into its storytelling, and I was in the process of learning a dance about a woman who asks a parrot to deliver a love letter to Kartikeya, son of Shiva and Parvati. At the end of the second-to-last lesson I was to have, my mother, Indrani, and I were on our way out of the dance studio we had been working in, in an elevator. I was anxious to learn the end of the dance we had been working on before leaving, and expressed to my mother how urgently I wanted to learn it. My mother responded something to the effect of “Don’t be too impatient,” and I, with my child’s impetuousness, retorted with something silly along the lines of “Why are you always criticizing me?!”. My mother and I laughed it off. Indrani said nothing.

The next evening, the phone rang. My mother was in the other room, and I picked it up. It was Indrani. In a calm, deliberate tone, she expressed to me how horrified she had been with how disrespectfully I had spoken to my mother the previous night, and unceremoniously announced that she was canceling the last lesson. I was blindsided, and utterly mortified. On my subsequent trips back to the US, Indrani refused to teach me, referring me, through my parents, to a younger teacher (whom I would also come to adore.) We didn’t speak again for almost ten years, and I would break down sobbing every time the subject came up, for years to come. We never spoke of her rejection of me. It was one of the most painful experiences of my childhood. 

The sting eventually dulled, and I drifted away from the world of classical Indian art, but never completely forgot my experiences with Indrani. In all the years I spent moving back and forth between Finland and the U.S, I never lost my first set of ankle bells, which she had brought me from a trip to India during the year I had studied with her. They remained with me, a relic of what felt like a past life in an almost literal sense.

Indrani passed away in 1999.

Dance remained an important part of my life, albeit one that felt like a passionate but unrequited love. I continued studying Bharata Natyam for a total of six years, but when my new teacher, Arundhati, moved back to India, I never found anyone to replace her. I loved ballet, but didn’t have the build of a ballet dancer. I fell into an obsession with Argentine tango at 16, and danced it on and off in an amateur capacity for decades, but always felt a bit like an outsider. I always had my finger in many different kinds of artistic pies, and eventually, it was music and film-making that won out as my main forms of professional, artistic expression.

That is, until last spring.

Last April, I took up Argentine tango again in a serious way, dancing for hours on end, nearly daily, within a matter of weeks of returning to it. Around this time, my usual work in the film industry had become somewhat harder to find than before, and my spirit guides went so far as to straight up ask me if I was sure I was in the right career. Wouldn’t a musical setting be better for me? Working through an emotional healing process after losing a fiancé, I found myself unmotivated to do much else than dance tango and give psychic readings. Things started getting tight, financially, and I eventually asked to be sent a new spirit guide to help me find the right job. The guide presented itself the next day, and my spiritual team informed me that they were cooking up something good.

In July, after a year-long wait, I had a chance to get a reading from one of the best psychic mediums I have ever had the pleasure of working with, Medium Fleur, from Los Angeles. As she looked into my energy field, she expressed concern about my finances, but said that she saw me being offered a job, working in an office environment, part-time, receiving a salary from a corporation, through people who had known me for a while. Having been a freelancer all my life, this seemed like a huge departure from anything I had done before. However, knowing the accuracy of her second sight, I trusted her.

Around mid-September, the following popped up in a channeling session with my spirit guides: “Your professional life is predicted to grow very busy. Everyone will benefit better from your work when you have the energy to give back to the things you love. Don’t grow poor! Desire a job. Give a grand reception in which you teach messages of inspiration to your community." A couple of weeks later, a new friend of mine from the tango community - a professional ballroom dancer and Argentine tango champion - asked me to event-manage a pair of big fundraising galas he was putting together for his non-profit organization, which teaches ballroom dancing to underserved school children around the country. Applying my film-producing skills to the events, I managed to pull off the feat with a week to spare, and the evening was deemed a great success. Seeing the children perform at the galas, and the respect with which they treated each other, inspired by the dance, I was moved to tears of happiness.

A couple of days after the galas, I was rummaging through a bag of items my father had passed on to me during a move to his new apartment. There, I found a small bronze statue I hadn’t looked at for years: A figure of Shiva Nataraja - the Hindu god, Shiva, in his creative form, as Lord of The Dance. We had acquired this statue around the time I had been studying with Indrani, and the very first dance I had learned with her had been “Natanam Adinar” - a dance that brought the image engraved in that statue to life. As much as my spiritual proclivities had changed since that time in my childhood, placing the statue of Shiva Nataraja, Lord of The Dance, near a window, next to my houseplants, felt reassuring, like a small piece of my soul had been reclaimed.

Yesterday, the organization for which I had event-managed the fundraising galas officially hired me on an on-going, part-time basis, to work for them in an administrative capacity. I was thrilled to be offered a job working with friends to further a mission that brought healing to so many young people through the joy of dance. I was also thrilled that both Fleur’s and my guides’ predictions were coming true.

My new boss and I celebrated by dancing a few tangos at an event put on by another friend. I arrived home late at night, tired but content. As I was walking up the stairs to my apartment, my phone suddenly flashed. I looked down, and saw that it was exactly 1:11AM.  I’ve found myself intuitively checking the time at repetitive “angel number” times quite a bit, of late, but this particular one felt more significant than usual. I sent a mental “Hello and thank you!” to my guides.

My feet ached badly from dancing, and I decided I needed to put on a pair of silicone toe-spreaders for the night. I had lost them a week earlier, and had to push myself to muster up the energy to look for them.

Rummaging through a desk drawer in my tiny work room, my eyes were suddenly drawn to something familiar. A lone ankle bell. My gift from Indrani. I had never really noticed it there before, but I felt a strange emotional pull to it. In that moment, I had a fleeting thought: “It still hurts a little bit to think about Indrani, but see, she loved me enough to give me those ankle bells, when I was just a little girl, as a symbol of passing on her tradition, and her dance, to me. Their significance is profound.” I closed the drawer.

A few minutes later, having mercifully located my toe-spreaders on  a night-stand, I climbed into bed, and out of habit, checked Facebook one last time.

And all at once, there it was: Indrani’s beautiful face, smiling at me.

About 40 minutes earlier, Indrani’s son, Ram, whom I have never met in my life, and am not linked up with on social media, had posted a photo of his mother as a young woman, clothed in a white sari, standing next to the illustrious sitar player, Ravi Shankar.  For reasons that were not readily apparent, he had tagged Arundhati, my other teacher, in the photo, which was why I could see it.

I truly feel that Indrani was looking down on me at that moment, letting me know that for all the pain I associated with our parting, she was proud of me for contributing to the world through dance in a positive way. I wouldn’t be surprised if she had lent my guides a hand in putting me on my current path! I also feel that in the afterlife, perhaps in her life review, she may have realized how deep an effect the harshness of her disposition had had on me, and this was her way of showing up for me one more time, as my dance guru again, in a kind of reconciliation. I feel an immense sense of healing from this moment.

Have your departed loved ones ever shown up for you at important moments, communicating through synchronicities? How did it happen? How did you feel? Let me know!