Young Hyderabad takes offbeat break

Chitra Sanam / TNN / May 2, 2007, 01:30 IST

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The holidays have begun, and Hyderabad's young is indulging in offbeat passions.

The holidays have begun, and Hyderabad's young is indulging in offbeat passions.
Colleges and schools have closed for the summer and there's ample time on hand to tune into that long list of exciting things to do.
Hyderabad, of course, has umpteen options to dabble in, besides the regular swimming, cricket, painting and computer camps.
With the city adapting to new lifestyles, youngsters have taken an avid interest in a plethora of activities.Performing arts top the list.

Salsa, hip hop and free style — that's what the young are revved up for this season. For others, it's donning the DJ-hat, that's appealing.
Sashi Nahata, director of a dance studio, has introduced folk dances and Bollywood jive sessions to satiate those with a desi pallete.
She says, "Today, almost every party has a DJ. Even live dance shows in TV channels have ushered in interest in dancing."
Sashi shares that Deepak, the choreographer of a celeb dance show will be in town to get dance lovers in tune with the matkas and jhatkas, at a three-week summer camp.

"Modelling is another option. With expert guidance from fashion gurus and an all inclusive portfolio, this summer course tops the list," says Arun Kumar, owner of a dance studio. Others are pepped about exploring theatre and acting.
Vinay Verma, a theatre person who's been conducting summer workshops for the last eight years, says, "Theatre is about manifesting what's hidden inside you. And the workshop aims to help children and young adults get in synch with their inner self."
For those with a green thumb, Bonsai classes are an alternative. Pottery and vocabulary classes too are included. Then there's the bunch of foodies looking forward to quick lessons in whipping up cookies, cakes and chocolate.
Interestingly, it's the boys who're more keen on learning how to bake magical confectionery goodies. Chocolate lady Yojana Virender says, "I am surprised with the number of calls I receive from teens, and that too boys who're interested in baking!"
Besides being pleasurable summer indulgences, these activities help youth socialise. Salsa instructor Jeremy Brain chips in, "One of my friends is in New York, and we got to know each other when she had come for my classes."
Recent studies conducted by the American Camp Association show that participating in activities boosts self-esteem and leadership skills. Vinay concludes, "These workshops are also about promoting local talent."
hyderabadtimes@indiatimes.com

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