Dance holds a profound significance in South Asian culture, serving as a vibrant expression of tradition, spirituality, and celebration. From the classical elegance of Bharatanatyam to the energetic rhythms of Bhangra, each dance form reflects a rich tapestry of history and storytelling which creates a deep sense of identity and community across the diverse landscapes of the region. This is why Sophomore Innaya Virk created Oakdale’s very first South Asian Dance Team.

Although this is the first time Oakdale has had a cultural dance team, other schools nearby such as Urbana and Seneca Valley have already started a “Naach” team. The verb “Naach” translates to “dance” in Hindi, and most members of the team refer to it as Naach already.

“The South Asian Dance Team started as a passion project,” Virk said. In order to execute this project, Virk got in contact with some of the South Asian girls at Oakdale to see if they would be willing to commit to the team. Currently, the team has 11 members and they meet every weekend and sometimes during the week after school.

At practices, Virk teaches choreography for the current song they are performing to in small steps. Although Virk had high expectations for the team, it has become more of a community than she expected. “I’ve made incredible friendships, which I wish to keep forever,” sophomore Aditi Dhananjaya states.

The team’s purpose is to foster a sense of population in the expanding South Asian community of Oakdale. The team is not only diverse in having members from different South Asian countries, but also students from each grade. “It would be a way to embrace South Asian culture in a school that isn’t so diverse just yet,” voiced Senior Pragna Yalamanchili when considering the team’s long term impact.

Although every member of the team agrees that dance is very enjoyable, being on the team is indeed a commitment. It requires time, patience, and the responsibility to practice at home. For the captains, it takes effort to organize choreography, outfits, and performances. Recently, the team had their first performance on the Oakdale stage for the inaugural Multicultural Night. The South Asian Dance team is currently planning their grand end-of-the-year performance, which is to be held at Oakdale this May.

Overall this team has put in countless hours to make it what it is today. Hopefully this team and community will continue to grow for years to come!