Tufts University’s TASA Culture Demonstrate Celebrates South Asian Arts and Community
On March 7, 2026, the Tufts Association of South Asians (TASA) hosted its annual Culture Show, affectionately known as the “C-Show,” at Tufts University.1 This year’s theme, “Highly DESIred,” transformed Cohen Auditorium into a vibrant celebration of South Asian art, dance, music, and culture, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all backgrounds.13
A Showcase of Diverse Performances
The C-Show featured a dynamic range of performances, beginning with an energetic set from the Bollywood fusion dance team, Tamasha.1 Tamasha’s performance blended styles from Kathak to jazz, accompanied by a mix of English and South Asian music.1
Several South Asian dance teams contributed to the evening’s entertainment, including Tufts JumboRaas, Tufts Pulse, Tufts Bhangra, and Tufts Rangeela.1 While Pulse and Bhangra were traveling during the event, JumboRaas showcased Garba-Raas dance styles originating from Gujarat, India, incorporating traditional dandiya sticks.1 Tufts Rangeela, a Bollywood-focused fusion dance collective, combined Indian styles with Afrobeats and Latin music.1
The show likewise included performances from the Korean Dance Association (KoDA) and the BlackOut Step Team, demonstrating a welcoming spirit and cultural exchange.1
Student Leadership and Community Building
The C-Show is entirely student-led, with approximately 18 students on the TASA executive board managing the event.4 Preparation begins the previous semester, with students handling choreography, rehearsals, and event logistics.4
In addition to performances by established dance teams, the C-Show features dances choreographed by first-year, sophomore, junior, and senior students, providing an accessible entry point for those with less formal dance experience.4 This year’s freshman dance included a narrative centered on a South Asian wedding.1 A satirical short film, written and directed by TASA members, was shown between performances, tying together the show’s theme.1
The Importance of Community and Cultural Expression
TASA’s C-Show serves as a vital platform for South Asian students to express their culture creatively and share it with the broader Tufts community.1 With approximately 400 attendees, the event fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.1
“Having [a] South Asian community [at] that scale of 400 people [in attendance] is really nice, since that doesn’t happen that often,” said Riya Chandra, TASA vice president and a dancer on Tamasha.1 “So, it’s nice to feel like this much of the South Asian community is in one space at a certain time. That’s the point of having [the] C-Show.”1
You can find more information about TASA on their Instagram page.2
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