Awaaz free, open to all students

On behalf of the executive board of Diya, the South Asian student association, and 200 performers in Awaaz, Duke’s largest student-run production, we are writing to clear up several misconceptions surrounding our annual cultural extravaganza, Awaaz, which will be taking place Friday, Nov. 12 and Saturday, Nov. 13 in Page Auditorium at 7 p.m.

The biggest misconception is that it costs money to come to Awaaz. Both the show in Page and the catered dinner before in the Great Hall are free for all Duke students. The free tickets are given out daily on the Bryan Center Walkway and the Marketplace. Unfortunately, many students, used to walking quickly past charity fundraisers and party promoters, miss the dedicated Diya members and Awaaz participants tabling to pass out free dinner and show tickets.

Some might think that Awaaz is just another Duke show put on for Blue Devils. Nothing could be further from the truth. Not only will attendees come from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Wake Forest University and the Triangle area, but people are also flying from around the country—and in one case, across international borders—to attend our 20th anniversary show. Others might think that the show will drag on as long as a Bollywood movie. Also untrue—this year, organizers have ensured that the energetic bhangra, traditional dances and lyrical songs captivate attendees, but then let them go early to enjoy the night.

And the most intriguing misconception? Many people think Awaaz is a show by only South Asians, for only South Asians. This year, a record third of Awaaz participants are non-South Asian. This is part of a conscious effort across Awaaz to appeal to the broadest possible audience, to give those unfamiliar with South Asian culture a taste of the sights and sounds of the region.

We invite all Duke students to come and experience Awaaz this Friday and Saturday night, especially for those who have never attended. We look forward to celebrating our culture with you this weekend.

Sumesh Chopra

Naim Rashid