THE FIRST PHASE of our program, keeping Tagore’s tradition in mind, begins with an assembly of all participants at the Bettenbender Plaza of Rutgers, Mason Gross complex. Then, the Briksharopan Parade will be led by the Shantiniketan Ashramik Sangha International (SASI) alumnae and local talents.

A small sapling/plant of a tree will be carried by traditionally dressed bearers in a decorated palanquin, who will be followed by a parade of dancers, singers, and musicians to transport viewers back to Santiniketan.

Then the sapling will be handed over to the Distinguished Guest to replant it in a pot which would be preserved for planting permanently at a different location (to be decided on later) in the near future. When it will be planted, there will be a metal or stone plaque, inscribed with the English version of Tagore’s poem on the significance of the ceremony.

The first segment, on Saturday May 14, will begin with an assembly at the Bettenbender Plaza at around 1.30 pm, followed by Brikhsharopan Parade led by the Shantiniketan Ashramik Sangha International (SASI) alumnae.

Programs in the Victoria J. Mastrobuono Theater will start with Inaugural Speeches by the invited dignitaries, followed by a variety program which would include Vedic Chants, Musical Choir, Dance, and Dance Dramas (some in Multimedia). The final program is scheduled to be a movie/documentary presentation followed by a discussion.

Programs in the Nicholas Music Center (May 14, 2011)

The third segment of the program will be in the Nicholas Music Center. It will start with the celebration of 150 years of Tagore’s birth through a lighting ceremony, followed by awarding recognition to distinguished scholars who worked on Tagore, speeches by guest speakers, and variety programs by the local youth & overseas artists featuring recitations, songs, and instrumental music performances. There will be two small breaks of 10 minutes each (time permitting). The session would be otherwise continuous and end with the last artist scheduled.

The Rehearsal Hall adjacent to the Nicholas Music Center will be used for visual displays, seminars, recitations, and waiting area for guest artists (before their programs) until dinnertime. The Rehearsal Hall will be used for serving buffet dinner.
Buffet Dinner Time: 7 - 8 pm.

The Food Stall (Bettenbender Plaza, Covered Patio) will be open for
Snacks/Lunch box 1:30 - 2:30 pm

Prices: To be announced shortly

NO FOOD OR DRINK IS ALLOWED INSIDE ANY AUDITORIUM, BACKSTAGE and AREAS WHERE IT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED BY RUTGERS AUTHORITY.   PEOPLE HAVE TO EAT IN DESIGNATED AREAS.

This is the end of the FIRST PHASE.