VEDIC AROBICS

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Koklkata woman devises Classical AerobicAsian News InternationalKolkata, September 15, 2005

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As a novel idea to promote classical art and physical fitness together, a lady

in Kolkata has devised a fusion - Classical Aerobic - which associates

ancient Indian classical dance form with the modern day's aerobic exercises.

"Be it anything running, singing, painting or anything, it has a role of

breathing in it. The "Classical Aerobic" is a term which I have coined as a

kind of a package which is going to provide a glimpse of the whole activity,

which is coupling with the breathing. It comprises dance, yoga, breathing,

voice, lots of streaching movements and exercises. It is a holistic attitude

towards the breathing and that will lead to a very qualitative lifestyle," says

Nandini Sinha, the Classical Aerobic organiser, teacher and Kathak dancer.

Nandini practices this Classical Aerobic with a group of students. Who

practice it with the chants like--Pataka, Tripataka, Ardhapataka. Their hands

move and fingers fold correspondingly. These are Hastamudras (hand movements)

mentioned in Natyashastra. The next moment they sit in is "Padmasana"(a Yogic

sitting posture) to do voice-training. At the end, they are handed out

printouts on the Vedic basics of Indian culture, explains the teacher.

Nandini says that she gives her students a taste of all facets of the heritage

to rouse their interest. For instance, in Indonesia, the troupe had a

demonstration on the ways of wearing a sari for a class of 25 girls of far east

nationalities.

Similarly, voice culture and the practice of students' introduction to

Indian music through a song, be it a bhajan (hymn) or a folk song, led many

people to explore the Indian music. And there are many people who wish to join

it to confront physical ailments.

"I am suffering from Thyroid and after joining classical aerobic, it has helped

me a lot. Earlier, I felt exhausted. But now a days, I feel energetic," say

Saroj, a participant.

With this novel idea getting popularity, more and more enthusiastic students

are willing to attend these classes.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/181_1492934,001100020006.htm