The North Bergen Free Public Library hosted their second annual “Rhythms of India” night at the Nutrition Center on July 14. Library Director Sai Rao hosted the thematic production “Shiva-Shakthi,” depicting the highly spiritual union of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati, representing divinity, energy, and the perfect balance between masculine power and feminine grace.

Musical performers for the event were Guru Smt. Padmini Radhakrishnan, B. Ravi, and K G Vishwanath (Sriram). Guru Padmini Radhakrishnan is the founder-director of the dance institute Soundarya Natya Kalalaya in Mumbai, with branches in the U.S. She narrated the North Bergen performance, accompanied by violin and percussion on a mridangam, a traditional double-headed drum.

Meanwhile dancers Gomathi Manoj, Nilesh Singha, Nirupamaa Venkatesan, and Bhavna Chandramouli acted out colorful, highly expressive storylines with historical and cultural relevance. Manoj is the artistic director of Soundarya Natya Kalalaya for New Jersey.

Local dancers enhanced the event with additional performances.

Additional Photos in Online Gallery