Indian actress, model part of Celebration of South Asian Culture night at SAP Center

The San Jose Sharks are hosting its annual Celebration of South Asian Culture before and during their game with the Minnesota Wild tonight at SAP Center.

Festivities began Saturday morning with a free UPMA Holi Celebration outside of SAP Center on Barack Obama Blvd. They included celebratory color throwing, music, guided dancing, and food (for purchase). Those participating in color throwing must change clothes before they enter the arena for the Sharks game.

Indian actress, model and producer Huma Qureshi will drop the ceremonial first puck before the game begins. Fans can still purchase a special VIP package ticket that includes a pre-game meet-and-greet with Ms. Qureshi from 6-7 p.m. as well as light food and beverage and a group photo with her on the ice after the game. For more details, visit www.sjsharks.com/indian.

Additional pregame activities will include festive dancing and live vocal performances by Voice of Bay Area founded by Jagruti Desai Shaw in the Hop Valley Bar located on the concourse level above the South Entrance at SAP Center.

The national anthem will be performed by local Indian singer Saavi Ramteke and dance performances pregame on the concourse and during both intermissions on the ice will be performed by Gurus of Dance, a Bollywood dance, drama, and entertainment company based in Milpitas. Free henna tattoo art will also be available to all fans on the concourse throughout the game.

Sharks-themed merchandise specifically created for this night and featuring South Asian-inspired artwork from local artist Chetna Mehta will be available for purchase in the Sharks Pro Shop located near the South Entrance at SAP Center.

As described by Mehta: “The design incorporates a Mendhi mandala, as the practice of henna overlaps across all South Asian countries and cultures despite the rich diversity. The art also plays with contrasting motifs that are both feminine and masculine, creating variance between the fierce, drooling shark in front of graceful circles and swirls.

“The orange disc behind the mandala symbolizes solar and lunar cycles, which often determine the timing of annual celebrations and ceremonies. The turmeric diamond, a color of a significant spice in food and ritual, offers a vibrant background for the detail of the earthy red mandala to be seen. The sprightly colors of the design are pervasive in cultural festivals and attire, reflecting tones of nature itself.”