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The festival’s stage will be graced by world-renowned performers, including the likes of Indian crooner Ricky Kej, Dominican rap sensation MelyMel, and the captivating South African vocalist Nomcebo Zikode
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Local talent will also shine brightly, with St. Louis rapper Mvstermind contributing to the electric atmosphere
A vibrant celebration of global unity is set to grace St. Louis this weekend as the International Institute of St. Louis presents its much-anticipated Festival of Nations at the picturesque Tower Grove Park, as reported by news.stlpublicradio.org.
Bringing together an extensive tapestry of music, culinary delights, and artistry from nearly 100 nations, the event promises an unforgettable experience for attendees. The festival’s stage will be graced by world-renowned performers, including the likes of Indian crooner Ricky Kej, Dominican rap sensation MelyMel, and the captivating South African vocalist Nomcebo Zikode. Local talent will also shine brightly, with St. Louis rapper Mvstermind contributing to the electric atmosphere.
Notably, the festival extends a special hand of support to the burgeoning Indian community, which represents one of the fastest-growing foreign-born populations in St. Louis. To assist newcomers in adapting to their new lives, the institute has commissioned the talents of four prominent Indian artists who will grace the festival stage.
A sentiment echoed by Arindam Kar, a lawyer and Indian immigrant himself, highlights the profound impact of events like the Festival of Nations. Kar explains that this immersive encounter with Indian culture within St. Louis plays a pivotal role in encouraging young Indian students to make the city their home rather than returning to their country or venturing to another state. “It really helps with the ability to retain those families, those students who may graduate and say, hey, you know, this is where I want to start my professional career, because I have everything I need,” he emphasized.
Attendees can anticipate a feast for the senses, indulging in diverse cuisines, cultural dances, and wellness activities. For many new immigrants, this event not only fosters pride in their heritage but also instills a sense of loyalty and connection to their newfound home
Kar’s own experience of relocating to St. Louis from Iowa with his Indian immigrant parents in 1994 underscores the transformation the city has undergone. He recalls the earlier years when the city lacked the diverse offerings that now bridge the gap between the local Indian community and their homeland. The presence of Indian grocery stores and entertainment options has become a vital lifeline, helping individuals maintain their cultural identity in a new land.
The Festival of Nations not only serves as a cultural haven but also fosters a sense of belonging for various immigrant communities. Arrey Obenson, President of the International Institute of St. Louis, shares that the event intentionally showcases the area’s most rapidly expanding populations, allowing them to actively engage and feel an integral part of the city’s fabric. This sense of inclusion and warmth contributes to an enhanced feeling of “home” for newcomers.
In addition to the global music acts, the festival spotlights local cultural groups like the St. Louis Flamenco Society and the St. Louis Modern Chinese School, bringing a touch of authenticity to the celebration.
Attendees can anticipate a feast for the senses, indulging in diverse cuisines, cultural dances, and wellness activities. For many new immigrants, this event not only fosters pride in their heritage but also instills a sense of loyalty and connection to their newfound home.
Arrey Obenson, a native of Cameroon and an immigrant himself, expresses the significance of such celebrations. He notes that immigrants often travel across America to witness performances from their home countries, as larger communities in other regions can more readily host such events. The Festival of Nations serves as a rare opportunity for St. Louis to shine as a cultural hub, showcasing the rich diversity that now thrives within its borders.
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