Those who believe in democratic values are rooting for Kamala Harris, says Sharon Lowen

The acclaimed Delhi-based exponent of the Odissi form and US citizen says Indian-origin people are playing a key role in cementing the ties between India and America.

Notwithstanding her busy schedule as a teacher and exponent of the Odissi dance form, Sharon Lowen has been following the US presidential election campaign quite closely. You might ask, ‘So, what’s so special about a Delhi-based artiste’s keen interest in the event? Isn’t the entire world trying to find out who will be elected the head of the most powerful nation on earth?’

Well, Lowen is American by birth, and retains her US citizenship even though, with a smile on her face, she calls India her “karmabhoomi”.

After graduating with a BA and MA in Humanities, Fine Arts, Asian Studies, and Dance from the University of Michigan in 1975, she came to India. Here, she found her first guru in Kelucharan Mohapatra, a renowned Odissi dancer credited with popularising the classical art form.

Saree-clad with a bindi on her forehead, Lowen expresses unequivocal support for US Vice President and Democratic Presidential nominee Kamala Harris. “It is the desire of all those who believe that democratic values must survive and flourish in America that Kamala wins the poll. Moreover, her track record as the Vice President was excellent. After four years in the shadow of [US President] Joe Biden, she is fully capable of taking over the reins of my country,” Lowen says.

Sitting in her South Delhi home, Lowen’s face looks grim at the possibility of Trump once again occupying the White House. “He (Trump) is a criminal-minded guy. He must be defeated. It is so sad that he is the candidate of the Republican Party. He has no claim to fame,” says Lowen, who is also a choreographer and a scholar. She is a renowned exponent of Odissi, Mayurbhanj Chhau, and Manipuri dance forms.

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Replying to a question about India-US ties after the elections, Lowen says, “The bilateral relations will only strengthen. It does not matter who wins the poll. Indian-origin people are playing a key role in cementing the ties.”

Lowen, who has dedicated her life to learning and teaching the Odissi dance, considers Barack Obama her favourite American president. “Obama was arguably the greatest statesman and a world leader. We Americans need a president like Obama. Obama’s leadership style reflects his distinct blend of vision, pragmatism, and empathy.”

She adds, “He is known for his eloquence and charisma, which he uses to inspire and encourage others, as well as his ability to work across political lines and seek agreement. He has a magnetic personality, is an engaging speaker, and attentive observer who values constructive critique and life lessons. He has a stylish appearance that can also dazzle others.”

Meeting and talking to her is a wonderful experience. There is a calmness and dignity in her personality. She is a Jew by birth and studies Buddhism.

Like millions of Americans living abroad, she has already cast her vote. It goes without saying that Lowen is looking to forward to seeing a fellow Indian-origin citizen being hailed as the world’s most powerful person.