Between 2002 and 2015, the Raas Association at the University of Michigan produced the annual Dandia Dhamaka (dD) Raas Competition. The show captures the spirit and energy of traditional Raas as one of the only competitions of its kind. As a pioneer in competitive Raas, dD has fueled passion and given inspiration to its participants and fans, paving way for new competitions and shows to spread culture across the country. 

 

As the oldest and largest Raas competition, dD takes pride in showcasing excellent Raas performances featuring teams from across the country. Raas is a traditional and high energy form of Indian folk dance that includes wooden sticks called dandias that the dancers hit against each other to the beat of the music. The performances showcase the richness of Indian culture in a vibrant form in order to promote the beauty of this artform and Indian culture.

 

Dandia Dhamaka strives to make a local and global impact using the performance stage as a place to raise awareness on issues plaguing individuals and communities throughout the world. The most recent dD competition donated all proceeds to the Prajwala Organisation to end sex trafficking while past and future competitions bring attention to serious crises in order to effect generations to come.  

 

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