Second Saturdays at Union Square: Rhythms of India (SF)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Join us for a joyful, family-friendly celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage through dance lessons, performances, music, art, and hands-on creativity! Whether you’re new to Indian dance or a lifelong lover, this showcase is your chance to see, feel, and celebrate the diversity of Indian culture.

This event is part of the Second Saturdays ‘Round the World series, which showcases the many cultural traditions represented in San Francisco through a monthly day of themed music, dance, and crafts in Union Square Plaza.

Second Saturdays: Rhythms of India
Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 11a-2p
Union Square Plaza, SF
FREE

See the full schedule, as well as other free daily programming in Union Square Plaza.

You can also enjoy Union Square Plaza’s free daily amenity zones, open 9am – 7pm, which offer books and games for all ages to borrow while hanging out in the Square.

Authentic & Modern Indian Dances
Experience the soul of India through stunning live performances and visuals featuring a diverse range of dance forms — from ancient temple traditions to high-energy modern beats. You’ll be mesmerized by:

• Ghantu Dance from Sikkim – A rare and powerful ritual, soft doll-like folk dance performed during Buddhist festivals.
• Garba from Gujarat – The colorful, circular dance of Gujarat that brings people together in joyous rhythm during Navratri
• Ghoomar from Rajasthan – The circular dance that stems from the word Ghumkha meaning to dance in circles with elegance and grace, beauty, and softness. Women in villages of Rajasthan perform this dance.
• Dalkhai from Odisha – A spirited folk dance from Odisha performed by tribal women, full of vibrant expressions and graceful storytelling.
• Tera Tali – A folk dance of Rajasthan blends advanced skill while playing Manjiras (cymbals) with hands
• Kathak and Bharatnatyam – Classical Indian dance forms rooted in storytelling, rhythm, and intricate footwork.
• Semi-Classical, Fusion, and Bollywood  – Blending tradition with modern flair, these performances showcase the evolving rhythm of India today.
• Bhangra/Giddha– The liveliness of Punjab caters to souls from around the world with this energetic storytelling that has spread with love Internationally

Arts & Craft Zone
Our hands-on arts and crafts station will be buzzing with fun Indian-inspired creative activities. Artist and educator Iranshid loves the curiosity and excitement children bring to their art making. She loves exploring the magic of the creative process with young artists ages 5 – 10. Iranshid has a BFA from San Francisco Art Institute and an MFA from Mills College. Join Iranshid to pursues her passion for creating beauty, delving into Newari and Thangka painting, an ancient devotional art tradition from Nepal and India.  Children will have the chance to explore India’s artistic spirit — and take home a handmade memory!

This is more than an event — it’s an immersive celebration for the whole family. Come dance, create, and connect with the vibrant heartbeat of India through dance lessons, performances from various parts of India, and arts and crafts for kids.  Expect to be mesmerized with the colors, music, styles of India.

 

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Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.