RASIKA is a cultural and educational organization 501c3 non-profit organizationbased in Portland, Oregon founded in 1999 presenting the classical performing arts of India to Portland audiences. Unlike major cities, Portland lacks a prominent World Music and Dance presenter. Rasika partly fills this void to promote the music from East India with mission of promoting the performing arts of India locally with concerts and presentation of educational outreach events to enhance the appreciation and understanding of the culture and traditions of this ancient land.

Rasika has been critical in expanding the scope of diversity and ethno-music presentations. The local audience including the growing Indo-American community has been appreciative of the organizations effort to bring ethnic artists to Portland over eighteen seasons. Now established as a prominent world music presenter in Portland, Rasika has been critical in expanding the scope of diversity and ethno-music presentations of the highest caliber. Despite the many challenges faced by most organizations in a small city like Portland, with rising artists cost, theater rental, less funding, increasing travel cost and administrative expenses, Rasika has been able to sustain due to the untiring effort of its supporters.

We also hope to get continued funding support from regional and national organizations to present high quality programming and outreach to benefit local audience. In our next season (2019-20), Rasika is planning to present a series of exceptional artists and continue to bring high quality Indian performing arts to Portland audiences.

OUR MISSION AND GOALS:

• Promote Classical Indian Music, Dance, and Culture in the state of Oregon
• Present high quality Indian concerts by leading artists: music and dance events
• Support upcoming local and international talented artists of India arts
• Encourage local musicians/dancers and performing arts enthusiasts in the community to collaborate on projects with visiting artists/teachers
• Facilitate education/outreach of the Indian arts through lectures and demonstrations by leading visiting master artists
• Organize music and dance workshops, and summer camps with a focus on introducing the various aspects of Indian culture to all interested children
• Provide a cultural bridge between India and the US