Aroon Shivdasani : In a world that often seems like a hurried dress rehearsal, there are individuals who stand out as living their lives on the grandest stage, embracing every moment with intensity and purpose. Aroon Shivdasani is undoubtedly one of these remarkable individuals. Her life story is a testament to the power of passion, the pursuit of cultural enrichment, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Aroon’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Aroon Shivdasani was Born in India and having lived in England, Canada, and the United States, she embodies the spirit of a global citizen. Her extensive travels have not only broadened her horizons but also enriched her understanding of diverse cultures, ages, and religions. Aroon Shivdasani is a living bridge between worlds, a testament to the beauty of multicultural friendships.
Aroon Shivdasani: The Renaissance Woman
With a Master’s Degree in English literature and drama, along with a Diploma in Marketing and advertising, Aroon’s educational background mirrors her eclectic interests. Aroon Shivdasani has worn many hats throughout her life, from marketing and advertising to teaching in New York schools and colleges, running a theatre company in Canada, and even serving as a docent at the Corcoran Gallery in Washington.
Her artistic endeavours are equally diverse. Aroon Shivdasani has ventured into acting, dancing, painting, pottery, ceramics, and stained glass, showcasing her boundless creativity. Her multifaceted talents are a testament to her belief that life is a canvas waiting to be painted with every colour imaginable.
Aroon Shivdasani & Her Contribution
However, Aroon Shivdasani’s most significant contribution to the world is her role as the Retired Executive and Artistic Director of the Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC). Her journey with IAAC is a compelling saga of dedication, vision, and tireless effort.
The IAAC’s mission is to create awareness of artists and artistic disciplines from the Indian subcontinent while nurturing and promoting emerging artists. Aroon’s realization that Indian arts were largely invisible and unrecognized in North America led her to co-found the IAAC with two others. It was a bold step that would forever change the cultural landscape of New York City and North America.
Under her leadership, IAAC has achieved remarkable milestones. Aroon Shivdasani conceived and produced the first Festival of Indian Theatre in North America, annual Playwrights Festivals in collaboration with the Lark Theatre, film premieres, a film festival showcasing New Films from India at the Museum of Modern Art, and the prestigious New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), featuring independent, diaspora, alternate, and arthouse films from the Indian subcontinent.
In addition to cinema, IAAC hosts an annual Erasing Borders Exhibition of Contemporary Indian Art of the Diaspora, an Erasing Borders Festival of Indian Dance, and an IAAC Literature Festival. These events celebrate the richness and diversity of Indian arts, fostering a deeper understanding of this vibrant culture.
Aroon’s passion for humanity extends beyond the realm of arts. She has consistently supported social causes through her work with organizations such as FREA India, The Spastics Society of India, SAKHI (prevention of domestic violence), CRY (child relief and you), Project India (aiding street children in Bombay), and more. Her contributions have made a tangible impact on the lives of countless individuals in need.
Aroon Shivdasani’s commitment to philanthropy doesn’t end there. Aroon Shivdasani has actively participated in raising funds and advocating for causes like earthquake relief in Maharashtra and Gujarat, the prevention of communal violence in Gujarat, and tsunami relief efforts in India. Her dedication to helping others is an embodiment of her belief that the arts can be a powerful force for positive change.
Beyond her philanthropic endeavours, Aroon sits on the Advisory Boards of various organizations dedicated to architecture, charity, and the arts. Her involvement in these capacities reflects her unwavering commitment to promoting creativity, culture, and community.
Recognition of Aroon’s exceptional contributions has come in various forms, including Outstanding Citizen awards from the City of New Rochelle, NY, and the NY State Assembly. She was named one of the top 20 Global Indian Women by The Economic Times in 2015, and she received the Bharat Sammaan Award in 2014.
Aroon’s dedication to the arts, her community, and her family is truly awe-inspiring. Her family, including her husband Indur, daughters Sacha and Misha, and grandchildren Maya, Dru Bella, Sloane, and Rishi, provide the grounding and love that fuels her endeavours.
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