By Janeeta Mistry
Sports Co-ordinator - Nottingham Trent University Hindu Society
SHYAAM. A magical evening Dancing In The Moonlight. On the 3rd February 2010, we as Nottingham Trent University Hindu Society presented our biggest event of the year and the first one of its kind too. Full of singing, dancing and fund-raising, our disco-dandia event proved to be a success and paves the way for future society events. Although it wasnt all plain-sailing, the committee members dedicated a lot of time and effort into putting the event together. Even though we had a limited budget, we still wanted Shyaam to look classy; after all it was our platform event that would hopefully be remembered for years to come!
From the word go our events co-ordinator held the reins, but assigned all committee members various responsibilities. Several tasks needed to be organised, one of which was to research caterers and really utilise our very Indian bartering skills. As well as a limited budget, we were also on a tight schedule and tensions started to build a month prior to the event when we had just arrived back from our Christmas break. So to fit in studying, eating and a social life, as well as coordinating Shyaam, our time management and organisation skills were, without a doubt, being tested.
With only a few weeks to spread the word of this magnificent event our publicity team had a lot depending on them. However, working together, posters were displayed wherever possible. Alongside that, Facebook events were created, flyers were handed out in the blistering cold and even by word of mouth we began to generate ticket sales. Kerching!!
Shyaam was held at our Students Union and with the generosity of our local temple, we borrowed some bright material and using our creative flair filled the room with colour and culture without losing taste, which was provided by the caterers! Our aim was to hold a festive night that students would enjoy, remember and want more of, and all of these factors were definitely achieved. The night was filled with live upbeat music and those that attended took part in traditional dancing. We had representation from all the East Midland universities, and all that were present enjoyed a thrilling atmosphere. As I looked around, I saw enthusiasm, passion and smiles. At the end of the night, one student asked, when is the next Shyaam going to be? Success, I say, and congratulations to the hard working committee and sub-committee! I believe that there are three main ingredients that are needed to pull off an event such as this; team work, organisation and dedication. Everything else will come together as seen in the case of an impressive Shyaam!
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