Dear Editor,
Popular dancer and choreographer Dheeraj Guyaram delivered a glittering and memorable performance last night (Nov 23rd) at the Caribbean Fest Lounge on Rockaway Blvd and 116th St, South Ozone Park, Queens, NYC. Dheeraj’s India-based gurus Birju Maharaj, Tirath and Reva Armani, would have been exceptionally proud of his sparkling performance. Dheeraj was backed up with his Ghungaroo dancers as well as prominent singers Terry Gajraj, Son Son, Farouk the Farishman, Saman, Sherwin Mathura and DJ Logic and DJ Fess.
The occasion was to commemorate Dheeraj’s 50th anniversary as a multi-talented dancer (who excels in Kathak, Odissi and folk dance forms), and he wanted to crown this glorious journey with “The Last Dance.” His finesse, agility, and immersion in his craft were as great as ever and he never showed any signs of faltering in his remarkable role. Dheeraj’s daughter Nikita joined him in performing two beautiful and touching dances.
Dheeraj’s dance to Manna Dey’s classic, “Laaga Chunarie mey daag,” was done with exquisite grace, elegance and great artistry. The audience was not only mesmerized but also became more animated with his body’s symmetrical movements during this dance. They unhesitatingly asked him not to quit dancing but to continue to share his exceptional gift as a cultural icon for many more years to come.
Dheeraj has performed before many Heads of State and also before Queen Elizabeth II as well as Nelson Mandela of South Africa. He has been honoured with scores of citations, trophies, and plaques. During the programme last night he received a powerful proclamation from NYS Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar. Although Mayor Eric Adams could not make it to the event, he sent his congratulatory message with a staff member. Mayor Adams has a strong connection to the Guyanese diaspora and so does Assemblywoman Rajkumar.
The program was emceed by popular radio host Ms Shamella Karim. Based on last night’s response to Dheeraj’s performance, we believe that he will re-consider his decision to retire from professional dancing. But he did caution that such a stellar presentation demands great sacrifice, challenges, rehearsal time, and resources. We applaud Dave West Indian Imports, Golden Crown, Vinty, Metro Auto Body shop, Caribbean Fest and Island Zone Radio for supporting this awesome project.
The Guyanese community in the diaspora as well as in Guyana, owes Dheeraj Guyaram an immense debt of gratitude for his immeasurable contribution to cultural revival and continuity in Guyana and the Guyana diaspora. He is one of Guyana’s prized cultural ambassadors.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tara Singh
