Plano-based Dhol band's historic inaugural performance foiled by cold weather
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Shivam Dhol Tasha Pathak, a Plano-based percussion ensemble, was set to make history by performing on a float in front of the 47th President of the United States.
However, the freezing weather in Washington, D.C., led to the cancellation of their performance.
"It's a little disheartening, but I think it's beyond anyone. It's an act of God," said Harish Nehete, cofounder of Shivam Dhol Tasha Pathak. "We understand the hard decision that the PIC team and the administration had to take."
Nehete spoke with CBS News Texas from his hotel room. The ensemble was to be the first Indian-American group to perform at a presidential inaugural parade.
"When we met with the PIC team, they explained the situation and the security concerns with so many people," Nehete said. "The administration needs to make sure that everyone is safe, especially considering the weather."
Twenty-seven performers traveled to the nation's capital, expecting to ride a large float adorned with American flags and featuring the states of Texas and the Alamo as a backdrop.
The group received the invitation in December and had to raise funds for travel, lodging, and other needs. Despite the cancellation, Nehete emphasized the importance of the global media coverage they received.
"We do not take it for granted," Nehete said. "We remain focused on bringing the best performances we can."
The group is scheduled to meet Senator Ted Cruz before leaving the freezing temperatures in D.C. They are also set to perform for the Dallas Mavericks in early March.