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India Association of Minnesota
September 2023 Newsletter
Celebrating 50 Years 1973 - 2023
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To our Newsletter Readers: If you do not see our sponsor logos, you have not reached the end of the newsletter. Immediately below the last article you will see the following message. Please click on it.
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IndiaFest 2023
All was not calm on the Minnesota State Capitol grounds during the scheduled IndiaFest Friday evening setup. The Twin Cities was hit with rain, hail and strong winds. Fifteen tents tumbled down the mall and everything was soaked.
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The India Association of Minnesota team, led by IAM president Tanwi Prigge, rallied and were ready to greet the attendees on Saturday morning. The Minnesota Indian community gathered to celebrate and enjoy everything Indian on a sunny Minnesota summer day. IndiaFest can only be described as colorful, noisy, entertaining, fun and full of laughter.
The attendees enjoyed Indian food from Thirsty Kya, Bombay Pizza Kitchen, Jude Khua Yum Yum, Fresh Sugarcane Juice, Hyderabad House, Biryani Place, Hyderabad Indian Grill, Punjabi Rasoi, Pizza Karma, Kadai Food Minneapolis and the always popular with kids, HomeTown Creamery.
The inflatables were busy with bouncing and laughing children. Tattoos, bindis and caroom were popular at the Activities booth.
Indian organization booths had beautiful displays, depicting the regions of India, their festivals and area cultures.
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Flag Hoisting & Dignitaies
The annual parade of Indian organizations was led by the IAM team. Board member & Government Relations lead, Shruti Joshi welcomed the attendees and then turned the hosting duties over to Tanwi Prigge. The Indian and US flags were unfurled by US Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith and the National Anthems of both countries were sung. Sen Amy Klobuchar then addressed the assembled festival attendees, followed by Sen Tina Smith and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. US Representative Dean Phillips was in attendance. Also speaking to the crowd about IndiaFest and the contributions of the Indian community to Minnesota and visiting with the crowds were MN House Speaker Melissa Hortman, Rep Kristin Bahner, Rep Ginny Klevorn, Rep Kristin Robbins and Rep Jim Nash. Shivangi Sathanandan, Saraswati Singh and IAM Youth representative, Anjali Nambudiri spoke to the crowd. Reps Mary Francis Clardy and Dave Lislegard attended the festival during the afternoon.
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Cultural Performances
Beautiful performances by community dance groups started the day. Proud parents of the youngest dancers watched and all appreciated the performances of their family and friends throughout the late morning and early afternoon.
Minnesota's professional dance troops took over the stage in the late afternoon, including Ragamala, Katha Dance, Natyakla Dance School and Nritya Kalakshetra. IndiaFest appreciates having these renound dancers perform for the enjoyment of the community.
The Pooja Goswami Antarnaad Band, RK Vibes Band and comedians John DeBoer & Senthill Rajesekharen entertained on the main stage. The evening ended with the Nazia Alam Band wrapping up the entertainment at 10 pm.
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Partners & Community
IAM partners' booths covering education, meditation, politics and wellness were busy.
Many of our Corporate sponsors had booths. Our sponsors are Dr. Dash Foundation, Minnesota Twins, Andersen Corp, Securian, KPMG, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wells Fargo Corp, Best Buy, Abbott, JW Marriott, Land O' Lakes, 3M, Key Cadillac, Spirit Airlines, and Metro Transit. Dr. Dash Foundation .
India Association of Minnesota thanks the regional partners, the service organizations, the Indian businesses and food vendors for their participation at IndiaFest 2023. A special thank you to our corporate sponsors and volunteers. IndiaFest is not possible without your help and support.
Please fill out this survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KBW8GFH
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IAM Past Presidents
IAM's past presidents continue to participate, support and serve the community and IAM. The following were at IndiaFest volunteering, contributing where needed, and visiting with the dignitaries and attendees: Stefan Peterson - 1988, Godan Nambudiripad & Savitry - 1990, Shanti Shah - 1992, Niru Misra & Brian - 1994, Ananth Shankar & Raji - 2000, Ashoke Mandal & Aparna - 2002, Ramesh Muniswamy - 2006, PG Narayanan - 2010, Kusum Gosain - 2012, Sreekanth Kamojjala & Vashala - 2017, Ravi Sagi - 2018, Nash Shaikh - 2019, Sreeni Checka - 2020, Kiran Bandi - 2021, Suyash Jain - 2022. Not in pictures Godan Nambudiripad and Ramesh Muniswamy.
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2023 Student Achievement Awards
The Student Achievement Awards were announced on August 18, 2023. Five graduating seniors were awarded scholarships for exemplary work. The awards were given for achievements in four categories. The General Academics category for well rounded accomplishments, with primary focus on Academic achievements. In the Arts and Sports category, the student has achievements in the arts and/or been successful in sports. In the Community Service/Civic Engagement category,The student has contributed to the Minnesota community through participation and/or leadership in community service and civic engagement. The Entrepreneurial Leadership category, means the student has been a Leader or demonstrated leadership to promote and benefit society at large.
IAM congratulates the recipients of the 2023 Scholarships.
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IAM 10th Annual Golf Tournament
IAM’s 10th Annual Golf tournament was held on Saturday, August 26, 2023. The players were excited to get out on the beautiful Baker National Golf course. Golfers were greeted by IAM President Tanwi Prigge, Gira Vibharkar, Nidhi Methi, Alice Northrup and Sohini Sarkar at the registration table. The tournament started right on time at 12:05 pm. IAM Past Presidents, Ravi Sagi and Nag Bommareddy golfed and Kiran Bandi and Suyash Jain were in attendance at various times during the day. IAM Vice-president, Meena Bharti joined the the ladies for the putting competition in the afternoon. A lot of laughter could be heard on the putting green. Meena and Alice each had a hole in one. They aren't talking about the other five embarrassing holes.
Sandeep Methi recapped the day. He and IAM Vice-president Meena Bharti presented the awards.
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Congratulations to the top teams for the tournament:
Category A
Winner: Krish Methi & Viraj Taneja
Runner Up: Mike Knox & Elijah Knox
Third - tied: Gautam Pradhan & Chandra Mummadi and Rajeev Tandon & Pranav Thakkar
Category B
Winner: Ritesh Mangal & Jibran Khan
Runner Up: Gowri Raman & Nikhil Guid
Longest Drive Winners : Pranav Thakkar & Viral Taneja
Closest to the Pin: Pramod Taneja & Ranjan Dumra
Ladies Putting Competition Winner : Shilpa Taneja
Ladies Putting Competition Runner Up : Sujata Bika
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Tanwi ordered delectable Indian cuisine from Bombay Pizza Kitchen and India Bazaar. It was enjoyed by all during the social hour and the awards ceremony.
IAM thanks Sandeep & Nedhi Methi and family for leading this event for 10 year.
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IAM Picnic
India Association of Minnesota is hosting its annual picnic for the IAM family - IAM Board & Associate Board members, TAC, Honorary Board, Interns IAM members and their families.
Date: Sunday, September 17, 2023
Time: 2:00 6:00 pm
Where: Baker Park Reserve
Driftwood Picnic Area
2309 Baker Park Rd, Maple Plain, MN 55356
To RSVP click on the QRcode
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Non Violence Day
IAM will once again celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's legacy of peace through non-violence to eradicate the ingrained systemic racial violence, injustice and inequality against minorities(women, native Americans, Blacks, immigrants, LGBTQ and all marginalized people). Our world needs Gandhi's philosophy of peace through Nonviolence more than ever in current turbulent times of conflicts among communities and violence against environment/nature.
Date: Sunday, October 1, 2023
Time: 3:00 - 6:00 pm
Where: Minnesota History Center
345 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102
RSVP Here or Click on the QRcode
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Pink Garba
Save the Date
The IAM - WIN third annual Pink Garba for breast cancer awareness will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023. More information in the October newsletter.
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Upcoming IAM 2023 Calendar of Events
Event/Date/Venue
- IAM Picnic, Sept 17, 2023, Baker Park Reserve
- NonViolence Day, Oct 1, 2023, Minnesota History Center
- Pink Garba, a breast cancer awareness event, Oct 28, 2023, TBD
- Dhanyawaad, TBD
Watch for coming events in future newsletters, on Facebook and the IAM website www.iamn.org.
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Government Relations & Civic Engagement | |
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Election Day - November 27, 2023
During each election cycle, India Association of Minnesota lets the community know Indian Candidates running for office.
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Paras Bhende is running for Wayzata School Board (a non-partisan seat). To learn more about Paras click on this link -https://parasbhendeforwsb.org/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095378029718
India Association of Minnesota is non-political.
IAM will inform but does not endorse any candidates.
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IAM Membership
India Association of Minnesota invites you to become a sustaining member of the organization. As the Indian population in Minnesota increases, it is more important than ever that the community be involved in the activities of IAM as it represents our common interests.
The benefits are many, including participation in the annual election of IAM officers and board members, running for a seat on the board or becoming a part of the IAM committees (Government Relations, Cultural, History and SAARI).
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For more information send an email to contact@iamn.org and an IAM board member will contact you. To become an IAM member Click Here or click on the QRcode.
Welcome to new IAM members
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DesiStoriesAshaUSA.com
Jeevan Venkatsen is a sophomore at Penn State University Park, majoring in Aerospace Engineering. He explores the world by volunteering, diving into cultural experiences, internships and entrepreneurial ventures. His smile lights up his face, as he enthusiastically recounts his many achievements. At the same time, genuine humility and charm radiate to win over the listener. His zest for life and go go attitude seem difficult to sustain, but like the ‘energizer bunny’, he has been forging ahead since he took his first steps, enthusiastically supported by his parents, Priya and Venky. -Ruby Anik -
To read entire article Click Here
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IAM Alumni Interns Giving Back
Led by 2020-2021 alumni intern, Jeevan Venkatesan, college students, who are IAM alumni interns, are sharing what they learned about the essay part of the college application process.
Seniors, about to start their applications, are invited to use this free service. The alumni will review your essay. Just click on the QRcode and start for help from your peers.
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College Speaker's Series
If you have a high school junior or senior who is starting the college admissions process, we encourage you to watch the India Association of Minnesota's Speakers' Series presented in the fall of 2020. Natasha Kothari from Clark University Admissions presents an overview of the admissions process. In the following two sessions, Kansas University professors, Dr.Kathleen McCluskey-Fawcett offers some common sense advice and Dr. Susan Crawford talks about choosing a major and honors programs, followed by Dr. Mary Klader giving inciteful information on writing the college essay.
To watch this informative series go to: https://iamn.org/iam-media
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STEM is Everywhere
For middle school and early high school students, watch the one hour presentation "Planting the Seeds of Stem" with Dr. Jayshree Seth, corporate scientist at 3M. Jayshree explains how science is in our everyday lives. It's all around us.
To watch this IAM event held in 2021 go to https://www.iamn.org/iam-media
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Akshaya Patra
Date: Monday, September 11, 2023
Time: 5:30 - 8:00 p
Where: Shakopee Community Center
1255 Fuller St. S, Shakopee, MN 55379
RSVP or Donate: Click on the QRcodes
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AshaUSA
AshaUSA, Centro Tyrone Guzman, & SEWA-AIFW present "Mango Songs"
Alia is on a journey of discovery, of grieving, and of celebrating her father, who left far too soon due to Alzheimer's disease. From the intimacy of a singular storyteller to grasping what can be lost as families move across oceans and adopt new languages and customs, Alia asks, "How do you find a memory everyone has forgotten?"
When : Saturday, September 16, 2023
Time : 3:30 - 6pm CDT
Location : Open Book 1011 Washington Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55415
Hors d' oeuvres will be served
Free event, to register Click Here
Questions: Write to ashausa2014@gmail.com
This event is to raise awareness and address the stigma of memory loss. It is part of the 2023 program with MN-Department of Health & their BOLD Initiative. Watch the theatrical video of "Mango Songs," participate in the Dementia-Friendly Communities movement, learn about resources in the Twin Cities Metro and how to support those who live with dementia and their care partners, and meet with others who are interested in learning more about The Remember Project model while looking ahead to future community needs and organizational goals.
www.AshaUSA.org
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Bengali Association of Minnesota (BAM)
Enjoy and evening with Kavita Krishnamurti
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023
Time: 6:00 pm
Where: Ames Center
12600 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Tickets: Click on the QRcode
https://mnbangali.org/
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Indian Music Society of Minnesota (IMSOM)
Rahul Sharma
Date: Saturday, September 9, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm
Where: Premanand Theater
Normandale Community College
9700 France Ave So, Bloomington, MN. 55431
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Jayanchi Kumaresh
Date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Lorenz Auditorium, Normandale Community College
9700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
For tickets and more information https://www.imsom.org/
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RAGA BOYZ BAND
Announcing the establishment of the nonprofit organization 'Indus Music and Arts,' with the support and encouragement of music enthusiasts and various community leaders in Minnesota. The organization's mission is to promote contemporary music with origins in the Indian subcontinent and related arts in Minnesota, while also giving back to the community through numerous charitable initiatives.
The inaugural concert features an electrifying performance by the internationally renowned band, Raga Boyz. Enjoy an evening of Sufi, rock, fusion, classical, Punjabi, and Bollywood.
Date: Friday, September 8, 2023
Where: Eisenhower Community Centr Theater
1001 Hwy 7, Hopkins, MN 55305
Tickets: Click Here
For more information Click Here
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Katha Dance Theatre
Katha Dance Theatre is now enrolling for the fall session. To learn more about about performances, Katha news and class enrollment, click on the link below.
www.kathadance.org
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The power of our mission is being felt as never before. The achievement of "Mental Health for All" has never felt this critical yet closer to being realized.
Date: Saturday, September 23, 2023
Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
4801 S Minnehaha Dr, Minneapolis, MN 55417
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AshaUSA
Walk with NAMI in 2023
Like every year, team AshaUSA is participating in the 2023 NAMIWalks event. You are invited to became a team member and walked with AshaUSA. As a team member, you will be helping raise funds for NAMI's free top-rated programs, promote critical awareness, and further build an inspiring mental health community.
AshaUSA team's fundraising goal is $500. With your help, that goal can be reached. If you care about mental health, this is a great opportunity to be part of the movement! Visit the team page Join the AshaUSA Team. If you cannot join, will you make a donation?
https://www.ashausa.org/
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RGK Dance Academy (RGK)
Enjoy a Bollywood Dance Drama "Pursuit of Happiness".
Date: Saturday, September 30, 2023
Time: 4:00 9:00 pm
Where: CMS Performing Arts Center
8025 School Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
For tickets Click Here
https://rgkdance.org/
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School of India for Languages & Culture (SILC)
Registration for the 2023-2024 SILC school year is now open. To register, scan the QRcode in the flyer. Classes start Saturday, September 9, 2023 through May 18, 2024. For more information, go to the SILC website.
www.silcmn.com
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South Asian Arts & Theater House (SAATH)
Saath presents AKS - Acceptance, Kindness, Support.
Dates & Times: September 20, 21, 22, 2023 7:30 pm
September 24, 2023 2:00 pm
Where: Goodale Theater, Cowles Center
528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55403
Tickets: Click the QRcode in the flyer
https://www.saathmn.org/
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South Asian Womens Network (SAWN)
SAWN is thrilled to host a panel discussion at SAPHAL 2023 on September 10, 2023. Four dynamic women will share their journeys into entrepreneurship, from navigating challenges to redefining success. Get to know the panelists through our #SAWNSpotlight series. Suchi's Spotlight , Sharon's Spotlight , Kamlika's Spotlight , Priya's Spotlight
Register click on the QRcode or click sawnmn.ticketleap.com/saphal/
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SEWA-AIFW
SEWA-AIFW is excited to present the 2023 Annual Gala on September 23rd at historic Union Depot St. Paul from 5:00pm-9:00pm. Please join in celebrating the South Asian community in Minnesota, and to demonstrate your support for the services that SEWA-AIFW provides to the community. The theme of the Gala speaks to this work, titled #TrueStory: Celebrating Survivorship the Gala will be a lively celebration of survivorship in its many different forms. SEWA_AIFW is excited to share that the program is the culmination of a healing project through collected narratives and story circles in partnership with Pangea Theater. The program is designed to foster artistic healing and will also include a performance from the renowned Katha Dance Theatre. Tickets can be purchased at SewaGala.Eventbrite.com. SEWA-AIFW relies heavily on the support of the community for its programming. Please consider supporting SEWA-AIFW by becoming a sponsor for the Gala. For more information on sponsorship, please contact anjuli@sewa-aifw.org.
For more information on the SEWA-AIFW Gala, please visit https://www.sewa-aifw.org/
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Science of Spirituality
*In-person Meditation Classes & Spiritual Study Group* Every Friday @ 5:45 – 6:45 PM. Join meditation sessions to gain deeper insights, track your progress, and overcome personal obstacles in your meditation practice. Together, explore spiritual principles that can aid in your personal growth. Come meditate with a community of like-minded individuals and enjoy a fulfilling and transformative experience. Note: Special fun sessions for children above 5 are also available.
To register for classes Click Here
https://sosmn.org/
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Telegu Association of Minnesota (TEAM)
http://mail.telugumn.org/
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Vida Gyan
Vida Gyanto School In India, Vidya Gyan is gratified in distributing about 10,000 notebooks to more than 4,000 students for learning by writing under its Pencil to Power initiative. Vidya Gyan also offered smart TVs to about a dozen schools to connect the classroom with the world. For example, India’s historic landing of Chandrayan on the South Pole of the moon was watched live by hundreds of children in rural schools using these smart TVs. Teachers told Vidya Gyan about the unique, impressionable, and incredible experiences of young minds.
Vidya Gyan is grateful to its donors and friends who are continuously making a difference. They are transforming learning and the lives of thousands of under served but curious children, particularly girls, in rural areas.
https://vidya-gyan.org/
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Labor Day
Labor Day is September 4, 2023. It is a day to celebrate the women and men who campaigned tirelessly for workers' rights in the labor movement of the late 19th century. While you enjoy the holiday, take some time to reflect and pay tribute to all the laborers, past and present, who helped build America and make it the country it is today.
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Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15, 2023. President Lyndon Johnson signed the it into law in 1968. It is a time for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements for the United States.
To honor the Hispanic community watch for celebrations and programs.
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Asian Media Access (AMA)
Thank you to IAM partner AMA for promoting IndiaFest in its monthly newsletter.
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What a Celebratory 2023 Summer
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community has so much to celebrate this summer, especially many cultural programs and agencies have showcased the resilience through their longevity, as well as shared our cultures at every corner in MN.
To read about all the Asian celebrations this summer in the AMA newsletter Click Here
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Stay Connected with IAM
IAM is on twitter too!
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Submissions for the IAM Facebook page or future newsletters, please email us at marketing@iamn.org
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