From TCNEWS
As the world celebrates May 11 World Bellydance day, a sociocultural organization known as Igbo Vanguard Group, IVG has harped on the need to raise awareness and appreciation of the diverse cultures and traditions that exist within the Southeast region.To this end, the group has passionately suggested that the States Ministries of Culture, Tourism and Information with the consent of Southeast leadership should make May 11 a cultural dance competition day, which World Bellydance day seems to be promoting.
World Bellydance Day aims to connect dancers worldwide, celebrating the dance’s rich cultural roots and its modern allure. It’s not just about the shiny costumes; it’s about the art, the culture, and the unity belly dance brings to the world.
Interacting with our correspondent in Umuahia, Abia State, the President General of the Organization, Engr. Dr. James Nnadozie Uchegbuo, observed that cultural dance like ‘Atilogwu’, Ohafia war dance among others comes with a powerful display of grace, skill, and cultural heritage wrapped into one, which helps to also entertain and reduce the blood pressure of the viewers.
Uchegbuo who observed that the southeast region is a continent blessed with an incredible array of traditions and histories, said that IVG strongly believe in the power of Cultural recreation to connect people and build bridges between communities.
“This Southeast cultural dance competition day should be hosted at a central place agreed by the leaders. Also it should not be merely an event; it should be the celebration of our collective identity, traditions, and community. It should also serve as a vibrant tapestry of our rich cultural heritage, providing a platform to honour and safeguard our traditions for generations to come”, Uchegbuo, who is also the President General of Ahuwa-Oboro autonomous community Oboro clan in Ikwuano L.G.A, also said.
Pix: Engr. Nnadozie Uchegbuo
World Bellydance Day has a story as colourful and intriguing as the dance itself. It began in 2008, thanks to the World Belly Dance Alliance. This group aimed to promote belly dancing as an important art form and help everyone appreciate its cultural significance. So, they picked a day to celebrate it globally, engaging dancers and fans alike.