Penn Masala, the acclaimed South Asian a cappella group from the University of Pennsylvania, delivered two dynamic performances at the India House in the Olympic Village during the Paris Olympic Games.
The band, famous for its innovative fusion of Hindi and American music, reflected on the experience, taking pride in the sold-out crowds at both performances and praising the venue's ambiance.
“Performing at such a prestigious event, representing our Indian heritage and Penn, was truly an honor,” said Ajay Kilambi, the group’s president. Kilambi, a finance major at the Wharton School, described the energy of the performances as "unreal," with the audience singing and dancing along to their mix of Eastern and Western tunes.
The group’s 13 members flew in from around the world, balancing their professional and academic commitments to be part of this momentous occasion. “It’s incredible to see people from different cultures enjoying our music. The crowd’s enthusiasm was beyond our expectations,” said Gaurish Gaur, the group’s business manager.
Penn Masala, founded in 1996, has become a global sensation, performing at high-profile events like the White House and featuring in the film "Pitch Perfect 2." Their participation in the Olympics marked another milestone in their journey, with the India House providing a vibrant cultural setting that complemented their performances.
The performances on Aug.3 and 4 not only showcased Penn Masala’s musical talent but also highlighted the group’s commitment to representing South Asian culture on an international stage.
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