When your kids grow up in a multiracial country such as Singapore, it is important to teach them to embrace different cultures and beliefs. An interesting way to teach them about these cultures is through mythological stories, such as that of Garuda, which can be found in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Here are 5 fun facts about Garuda to keep your kids entertained while learning!
- The name Garuda is a sanskrit word, meaning eagle, and it represents the mythical bird or bird-like creature or humanoid bird most commonly found in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. You will find symbols of the Garuda at Hindu or Buddhist temples around the world.
- The Garuda is believed to be the remover of obstacles as it is also known by another name – Vinayaka. Vinayaka is a name also shared by Ganesha, the elephant-headed god.
- Garuda is most commonly represented with the head and wings of eagle, but body like that of a man. It is called the king of birds.
- Garuda is often depicted flying across the skies, carrying the god Vishnu and his wife Lakshmi.
- The Garuda is Indonesia’s national symbol and the name of its national airline too.
Bonus fun fact: Garuda’s eternal sworn enemy is Nāga, a serpent race. Garuda is known for feeding exclusively on snakes. Watch the exciting battle between Garuda and Naga come to life with the upcoming Esplanade production, Garuda – King of Birds.
The Esplanade Presents Garuda
Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts 2017
17 – 26 Nov 2017, Fri – Sun
An Esplanade Production
Garuda – King of Birds
25 & 26 Nov, Sat & Sun, 11am & 2pm
Esplanade Recital Studio
Look at the sky! It’s a bird, it’s a plane, no it’s…Garuda! With wings so wide they could cover the sky, and feathers so strong they could change the weather, you would never see a bird quite as fantastic.
Join Garuda on his adventures, told through music, story and dance, as he sets out to the heavens to find the magic nectar and save his mother from the evil curse of his cousins, the serpents.
From the team that brought you 2016’s sold-out hit Utterly Butter-ly Stories of Krishna comes Garuda – King of Birds, written by Pooja Nansi and directed by Carina Hales, featuring music by Renu Suresh and choreography by Sreedevy Viju. Starring Soti Dwivid as Garuda and Sangeetha Dorai as the mysterious narrator.
The 45-minute production is recommended for children aged 4-8. Tickets are priced at $18. But if you are a PIP’s Club member, enjoy 10% savings for 2 tickets or more. PIP’s Club is a club for kids to experience the arts from young! Sign up for free at www.esplanade.com/pips-club
Book your tickets to follow Garuda on his mission at www.esplanade.com/kalaautsavam. You can also get tickets from Esplanade Box Office and SISTIC authorised agents.
Do note that admission will not be granted for infants-in-arm and children below two years old.
For other interesting ways to bond with your child, join in the parent-child workshops happening at the Esplanade.
Parent-Child Workshop – Basic Yoga
by Kumareswaran (Singapore)
19 Nov, Sun, 11am & 2pm
Esplanade Rehearsal Studio
(1hr 15mins, with breaks)
Spend a fun, healthy Sunday bonding with your child as you discover the joy and benefits of parent-child yoga. Learn relaxation techniques for a healthier body, breathing exercises that sharpen one’s focus, and get into different poses that help improve flexibility. Give it a try and start your child on yoga early.
Recommended for children aged 5 and above. Please bring your own yoga mat and dress comfortably. Accompanying adult must be 16yrs and above.
Parent-Child Workshop – Basic Indian Dance
by Ponnamma Devaiah (Singapore)
26 Nov, Sun, 11am & 2pm
Esplanade Rehearsal Studio
(1hr 15mins, with breaks)
Come discover the rich heritage of Indian dance! In this introductory workshop for you and your child, learn animal and bird postures as well as hand gestures representing different elements of nature. Find out how to create a simple dance sequence and play a game of dance charade with another parent-child pair. At the end of it, learn to clap to the vibrant rhythms of Indian dance.
Recommended for children aged 5 and above. Please wear comfortable attire. Accompanying adult must be 16yrs and above.
Each workshop is S$24 (1 Parent + 1 Child). Or enjoy PIP’s Club Special at 10% savings for 2 tickets or more.
