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Astad Deboo
turns down award
The dance dept according to Deboo is also very stimulating for each class has a varied excellence of students. One class he taught comprised of all sports people and one of his performances was attended by a section of students who are runners, swimmers and basketball players. Their appreciation of the physical and control aspect of his work is something that Deboo considers really special. Amidst his
busy schedule in the US, Astad Deboo decided to turn down the GAURAV PURUSKAR
award for which he was nominated by the Gujarat state govt. Reproduced
below is his official letter in which he states his reasons. Astad was
honored with the Padma Shri earlier this year.
Astad Deboo
20th September
2007
SUB: GAURAV
PURUSKAR
But upon serious
reflection I have decided not to accept the award because I do not believe
in the policies of the current government in Gujarat and its actions. Since
the award is given by the state government, I cannot in good conscience
accept it.
I am proud to be an Indian and an artist. But the violence perpetrated upon the people of Gujarat under this government leaves me with no choice except to disassociate myself from all its actions. In the end I must be true to myself and my faith in secularism. I believe in an inclusive India for all Indians irrespective of their caste and faith. I am sure my fellow Indians will understand and support me in my decision. Sincerely, Astad Deboo
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Contemporary
dancer Astad Deboo is currently touring the US on performing, teaching
and workshop assignments. In Washington DC, he found the classes very interesting
for the professors of the theatre department wanted him to discuss his
work, the process he uses in developing his work, how he decides on the
people who he works with and so on.