The clink of bangles punctuated the sing-song Sanskrit chanting.
Saris of rich turquoise, orange and fuchsia swished around the room.
The sweet spice of incense and cumin permeated the air.
Janamashtami was a feast for the senses.
Held in the rented Unitarian Universalist Church in Brainerd, the India Association of Chattanooga combined the Hindu celebration of Janamashtami, the anniversary of the birth of Krishna, with an observance of Indian Independence Day, when the country was freed from British rule in 1947.
About 100 people gathered at the church Sunday for a religious ceremony, homemade potluck dinner and program of cultural dancing.
The attendees, many of whom are originally from India, said the celebration was nostalgic.
“I enjoy it because I get to keep participating in cultural events like I grew up with, and to pass it on to our children,” said Bhushan Karle, who left India 15 years ago. “If we don’t make a deliberate effort, [our children] won’t know [the traditions].”
Krishna is one of the avatars, or incarnations, of Vishnu, a member of the Hindu trinity. Krishna is one of the most highly regarded gods in the Hindu religion, said Lotika Chandra, chairwoman of the association’s committee.
Most of the evening’s dances told various stories about the life of Krishna, who was known to be one of the more mischievous gods. The singing and chanting focused on praising Krishna for all he has done, she said.
The India Association has between 100 and 150 members, but the overall Indian community in Chattanooga is larger, with about 1,000 families, said Rajul Soni, a chairman of the committee.
Soni also said one of the best things about the association’s events is helping to keep Indian traditions and religion alive.
“I want to show my kids when I say something, where it comes from,” he said.
Contact Kelli Gauthier at kgauthier@timesfreepress.com or (423) 757-6249. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/gauthierkelli.