Band practice turns Bollywood for NSW Police

Members of the New South Wales police force may be busy fighting crime, but their colleagues in the police band are working on their Bollywood repertoire.

They’re getting ready to take part in Paramasala, one of the biggest multicultural arts festivals in the southern hemisphere.

Held in Parramatta in Sydney's west, Paramasala brings together performers from more than 20 nationalities and cultures.

As well as the police band - aiming to  break down any barriers that remain between the police and the general community - there will be Bollywood dancers, African music and drums, Punjabi hip-hop and a Mariachi Band.

The word “Masala” describes a mix of spices, said Paramasala Marketing Director Nicole Browne.

"I guess it represents the spicy mix of all the different cultures and people in the area," she said.

"And that's what we celebrate - what makes us all different but the same."

Members of the public can also take part in the opening parade, learn the Bollywood basics and register take part in a mass Bollywood dance.

Bollywood dancer and choreographer, Prafulla Parida, said the key to good Bollywood dancing is to have a good time.

"It's all about fun, just having fun, all just happiness," he said.

And for anyone who thinks they can’t dance, a word of advice from Ghanaian drummer, Yaw Derkyi.

"Back home we have a saying - any mistake on the dance floor is a new style, so don't worry - just move it".

The festival will be held over three days, from October 17.


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