Petra In India

[calicowriter]

I accidentally came across this article today and thought everyone might find it interesting.

US band to rock Shillong, Aizawl
Source: The Sangai Express
Shillong, November 11: A four-time Grammy award winning band from the USA, �Petra� will perform in the North-Eastern region with rock concerts here and at Aizawl this winter. �Petra�, formed 35 years ago with seven million records sold to its credit, is making an entry into the region for the first time when they perform here on November 27 and at the Mizoram capital on December 3. Sam Rajkumar, director of Bangalore-based Common Colors Entertainment Pvt Ltd, the organizer of the mega musical event, told a press conference here today that the band had performed in south India in 2002. International music was made available only in the metros, but now music lovers of Shillong and Aizawl would be able to enjoy it, Rajkumar said. The Shillong Boys Choir, which performed in London and Geneva recently, would unveil the rock concert here.

I notice they never mention the word "Christian" in the article but refer to "international music." I wonder how fine a line they have to walk over there in what they say and do? Personally, I would love for someone to get with one of the band members when they get back and do an article for one of the websites and ask about what it is like. I'd be happy to volunteer, but I am sure there are others with a much greater chance of access than I.

[Historymaker]

Greg seemed pretty eager to go when I talked to him on Sunday (they flew out on Wednesday). We didn't talk about it a whole lot, but he said they were hoping other shows and venues would open up during their stay there in India. I never considered the possibility of them 'having to walk a fine line' or anything like that, but I think you raise some interesting questions. At any rate, I'll probably see him when he gets back and if it comes up I'll ask him about it.

If they DID have to walk a fine line regarding their faith and Christianity, that doesn't leave them with many songs (if any) from their catalog, does it?

T'is the season,
Ryan

[calicowriter]

Ryan,

Yes, please do let us know what Greg's reactions and experiences were if you get the chance. As for the "fine line" and their songs go, it depends upon the venue. If it is a church or advertised Christian gathering, no problem. I was thinking more about talking to press and government officials. Especially since the election, a lot of the world is skeptical and even scared about the red states and us Jeasus freaks. President Bush's appearance in Santiago, Chile is generating a lot of violence and protest, and Chile is a predominately Christian, albeit Catholic, country.

Although I hope everyone has Petra in their prayers, an extra one for their safety wouldn't hurt. And also prayers for those brave souls in mostly Muslim or Buddist countries who are not afraid to call Jesus their Savior.

[Shell]

I believe India would be mostly Hindu, but I'm not an authority on that, so don't quote me. It is cool that they have a chance to go there, and people who live in Hindu, Muslim or Buddist countries can really be putting their lives on the line to accept Jesus as savior. We do need to pray for the guys' safety, and yes, of course we'd love to hear about the concerts.

[Kirkman]

I believe (but could be wrong) that India is predominantly Hindu with Muslim and Christian minorities.

Petra is playing in the North this time, and I've been told the area is more Christian.

--Josh

[sue d.]

here's a piece of a newsletter from John the last time they went to India:

Hello everyone!

We just got back from India about two days ago, and it feels like I�m still on their time!

I will say that the people were fantastic. My idea of India has been totally changed. It�s a fascinating country and the people are absolutely gracious. We had an excellent time � we did three shows, and all three shows were amazing. It was just a real thrill for us and a great way to end the year for Petra.

It�s just a reminder that God is God all over the world, and there is no difference. For us to be able to be a part of that is a total honor. We are so thankful to the people who came and saw the show, and I just really want to say thank you to those involved for a fantastic and a successful tour.

This report is a bit short because I�m off to Switzerland in a few hours to do a solo concert with a wonderful church ministry group. I�ll be returning in time for Christmas, and after that we�ll do a complete review, looking back at the past year, seeing what God has done and praising Him for it!

Talk to you then�
John

[Jonathan]

I have never been to India, but I'd like to see one of their pow-wows.

[calicowriter]

Here's an encouraging article from NDTV.com:

Shillong rocks to the beat of 'Petra'
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Monday, November 29, 2004 (Shillong):


Music fans in Shillong and across the Northeast headed for the hill station this weekend to watch the rock gospel group "Petra" in concert on Saturday night.

This is the first time that an international group is performing in the region and judging by the response, it is unlikely to be the last.

Four time Grammy award winners "Petra" from the United States had the crowd in the Nehru stadium rocking from the first to the last number.

In a town where music is widely heard and appreciated, "Petra" in concert was a treat for many especially fans of the rock group as they tried to incorporate the many requests from the crowd including their Grammy hit from the album "Jeckyll and Hyde".

It took all of two years to work out permissions to perform in the Northeast.

But in the end nobody appeared uncomfortable with the combination of the gospel and rock.

The team is scheduled for a performance in Aizawl next week where musical talent is abundant yet untapped.


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