Category: Community

Community organizations in Chicago celebrated the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with a program featuring cultural presentations and a keynote address highlighting his historical significance.

CHICAGO, IL – Community organizations in Chicago came together to commemorate the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The event attracted members from various local groups, along with enthusiastic youth participants.

The celebration was organized by Maharashtra Mandal Chicago, Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, and CSM 350, which is dedicated to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Monument in Chicago.

The program commenced with the singing of national anthems and the patriotic song “Vande Mataram.” Attendees were treated to cultural presentations that showcased the life and legacy of Shivaji Maharaj, a revered figure in Indian history.

Among the highlights was a performance by singer Vira Adimulam, who delivered a Shivaji-themed song from the film “Chhava,” further enriching the cultural experience of the event.

The keynote address was presented by Avatans, the president of INDIC, who spoke eloquently about the historical significance of Shivaji Maharaj. His insights provided attendees with a deeper understanding of Shivaji’s contributions and enduring legacy.

This event not only celebrated Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary but also fostered a sense of community among attendees, reinforcing cultural ties and shared values.

According to India-West, the gathering served as a reminder of the importance of honoring historical figures who have shaped the cultural landscape.

The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America celebrated Jharkhand Diwas 2025 in New York, honoring the region’s cultural heritage and the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) recently hosted a vibrant celebration of Jharkhand Diwas and Jan Jatiya Gaurav Diwas, paying tribute to the rich cultural heritage and tribal identity of Jharkhand. The event, which took place in New York, gathered dignitaries, community leaders, youth performers, and supporters for an evening that beautifully blended tradition, pride, and unity.

The festivities commenced with registration and refreshments, followed by a captivating video presentation that showcased the natural beauty and cultural richness of Jharkhand. Emcee Sarika Dubey opened the program with an inspiring welcome, reflecting on the courage, vision, and enduring legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda in India’s freedom movement. Her remarks set an emotional tone for the evening, laying the groundwork for a celebration of heritage and pride.

Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, expressed gratitude to the community for its active participation. He urged members to promote tourism in Jharkhand and emphasized the importance of innovation, cultural preservation, and community involvement in achieving sustainable development for the state. Pradhan also encouraged support for social welfare initiatives.

A special short documentary honored Bhagwan Birsa Munda, depicting his bravery and the pivotal role he played in empowering tribal communities and shaping the spirit of Jharkhand. Following this tribute, the cultural segment featured “Ulgulan,” a thematic performance dedicated to Birsa Munda’s revolutionary life, and “Tribal Tarang,” a lively presentation inspired by the traditions and energy of the Karma Festival.

BJANA President Sanjeev Singh expressed heartfelt gratitude to Consul General Pradhan and the Consulate team for their collaboration in commemorating Jharkhand Diwas. He praised the performers and volunteers for their dedication, particularly commending the youth for their spirited participation. Vice President Priti Kashyap also thanked attendees and the executive committee, emphasizing the significance of preserving Jharkhand’s cultural identity within the diaspora through events like this.

A felicitation ceremony recognized six distinguished members for their exceptional contributions to the community. The honorees included Ms. Sweta Tewary, Dr. Ramesh Pandey, Ms. Anita Pathak, Mr. Mukesh Jha, Dr. Sanjiv Sharma, and Mr. Lakhendra Dangi. Each honoree expressed gratitude and shared reflections on their journeys and commitment to service and cultural promotion.

The event concluded with a warm Vote of Thanks from Mr. Dipen Banerjee, followed by a group photograph that captured the spirit of unity and pride among attendees. Guests enjoyed lively discussions and refreshments as the evening came to a close on a high note.

Esteemed community leaders, including Rajendra Prasad, Dr. Avinash Gupta, Rajiv Akhaury, and Alok Kumar, also attended the celebration, congratulating participants and applauding BJANA’s ongoing efforts to promote cultural and social engagement in North America.

BJANA extended its deep appreciation to all volunteers, dignitaries, and artists for their contributions to the event’s success. The organization reaffirmed its mission to celebrate the shared heritage of Bihar and Jharkhand while fostering stronger community ties across North America.

Source: Original article

The American Punjabi Society has announced its Annual Gala 2025, set for December 10, featuring the prestigious Global Punjabi Ratan Award to honor outstanding contributions to the community.

The American Punjabi Society (APS) recently hosted a successful Curtain Raiser and Media Briefing at the Pearl in Hicksville, marking the official launch of preparations for the highly anticipated APS Annual Gala 2025. This event is scheduled for December 10 at the Pearl Banquet Hall.

During the briefing, General Secretary Varinder P. S. Sikka welcomed community leaders and members of the media, reflecting on the origins of APS as a heartfelt initiative founded by himself and Mr. Gary S. Sikka. The society was established under the guidance of seven Founder Directors, including President Gary S. Sikka, Senior Vice President Mohinder Singh Taneja, and Vice Presidents Ajayvir S. Sondhi, Paul S. Bindra, R.P.S. Narang, and Jaspal S. Arora.

The event featured a series of insightful presentations. Sunil Hali, Publisher of The Indian Eye, spoke about the core values of Sikhism—unity, compassion, and service—that remain foundational to the community’s way of life. Pradeep Tandon, APS Director of Media and Public Relations, delivered an inspiring overview titled “APS – Celebrating Culture, Service & Community.” He emphasized how APS has evolved into a bridge between generations, merging cultural pride with compassionate service. Tandon noted that APS’s mission is to celebrate and uplift Punjabi heritage while making a significant impact on both local and global communities.

Vice President Ajayvir S. Sondhi provided details about the organizational structure of APS Councils. Meanwhile, Navneet Sikka Sondhi, Chair of the Women’s Council, highlighted the group’s community engagement projects and initiatives led by women. Senior Vice President Mohinder Singh Taneja emphasized ongoing collaborations with Police Commissioner Pat Ryder to promote safety education, law enforcement awareness, and community outreach programs.

President Gary S. Sikka proudly recounted APS’s achievements from 2023 to 2025, which include vibrant Vaisakhi celebrations, impactful cancer awareness campaigns, blood donation drives, educational medical lectures, annual APS picnics, and memorable Bermuda cruises. Notably, NYC Mayor Eric Adams honored Gary S. Sikka with the prestigious ‘Health Achiever of New York’ Award on June 9, 2025, recognizing his leadership in health initiatives.

In a significant announcement, President Sikka unveiled two prestigious annual awards: the Global Punjabi Ratan Award and the Punjabi Virasat Award. The Global Punjabi Ratan Award, referred to as “The Jewel of Punjab,” honors individuals who exemplify leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering service to the community. This award symbolizes the virtues of courage, compassion, humility, and community spirit. The Punjabi Virasat Award celebrates the preservation and promotion of Punjabi culture, values, and heritage on a global scale. President Sikka emphasized that APS is a family united by culture and service, and these awards reflect the best traits of the Punjabi spirit, fostering unity and collective strength across Indian-American associations.

The 2025 Annual Gala will feature two prominent personalities representing Punjabi culture on a global scale. Neeru Bajwa, an acclaimed icon of Punjabi cinema, will bring her artistic grace and exceptional talent to the event, inspiring millions across the diaspora. She will be joined by Miss Pooja, one of the most beloved voices in Punjabi folk music, whose songs resonate across borders and generations, uniting Punjabis worldwide. Together, they are expected to infuse the gala with prestige, warmth, and cultural richness.

The curtain raiser garnered extensive media coverage, with representatives from various Indian-American press outlets, including The Indian Eye, Radio Zindagi, Newsday, The New India Abroad, IndiaLife TV, TV Asia, ITV Gold, The Indian Panorama, Hum Hindustani, Jus TV, Global Punjab, 5aab TV, and Mana TV, among others. Vice President Paul S. Bindra expressed gratitude to the press for their steadfast support, which amplifies APS’s initiatives.

As the APS prepares for its Annual Gala, the excitement surrounding the event and the prestigious awards continues to grow, highlighting the society’s commitment to cultural celebration and community service.

Source: Original article

New York Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated Diwali with the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Flushing, Queens, highlighting the significance of cultural diversity and community engagement.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently participated in a Diwali reception hosted by the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Flushing, Queens. The event honored the Indian-American community’s Festival of Lights, bringing together community leaders, elected officials, and devotees in a spirit of celebration and cultural solidarity.

The program featured a traditional diya-lighting ceremony, which symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. Attendees were treated to devotional music and captivating Bharatanatyam dance performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India. In her address, Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of cultural diversity and civic engagement, acknowledging the contributions of the Indian-American community to the fabric of New York.

During the event, a formal citation was presented to the mandir’s leadership in recognition of their ongoing contributions to community service. This acknowledgment highlights the mandir’s role as a vital institution within the community, fostering unity and support among residents.

The gathering also saw the presence of several state legislators and local dignitaries, underscoring the growing influence of the Indian-American community in New York’s public life. Guests enjoyed a variety of vegetarian festive fare, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The vibrant rangoli art, a traditional Indian decorative art form, further enhanced the sense of communal festivity as Diwali illuminated the Flushing neighborhood.

As the evening unfolded, the spirit of Diwali resonated throughout the gathering, reinforcing the values of hope, renewal, and togetherness that the festival embodies. Governor Hochul’s participation in the event reflects her commitment to celebrating the diverse cultures that enrich New York State.

According to Global Net News, the celebration at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the shared values that unite communities across the state.

Source: Original article

More than 400 supporters attended the 12th annual ‘Diwali on the Hudson’ charity event in New York City, hosted by The Desai Foundation to empower women and children in India.

NEW YORK, NY – On October 16, over 400 supporters gathered at HK Hall for the 12th annual ‘Diwali on the Hudson,’ a prominent charity event in New York City hosted by The Desai Foundation.

The evening celebrated the festival of lights while bringing together a diverse group of philanthropists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Attendees united in support of the foundation’s mission to empower women and children through various initiatives focused on health, livelihood, and menstrual equity across India.

This year’s event marked a significant milestone for The Desai Foundation, which proudly announced that its initiatives have positively impacted 11 million lives to date.

“Let’s remember that this light we share here in New York reaches all the way to rural India, illuminating the paths of women and girls who are building brighter futures for themselves and their communities,” said Megha Desai, President of The Desai Foundation. “May this Diwali remind us that joy and generosity travel together, and that when we lift others, we all shine a little brighter.”

The evening was hosted by CBS News Correspondent Shanelle Kaul, who guided the festivities with grace and enthusiasm. The event featured a live performance by Shevya, a South Asian artist celebrated for her unique ability to blend traditional influences with contemporary sounds, adding a vibrant musical backdrop to the celebration.

In addition to the performances, a hand-raise auction was held during the event, which successfully surpassed the foundation’s fundraising goals, further contributing to its mission of empowering underserved communities in India.

The Desai Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in supporting women and children, ensuring they have access to essential resources and opportunities to thrive. The annual Diwali event not only highlights the importance of community and support but also serves as a reminder of the impact that collective efforts can have on lives across the globe.

As the evening concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the foundation’s mission, inspired by the stories shared and the connections made throughout the night.

Source: Original article

Boston’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace transformed into a vibrant celebration of Indian culture during the Diwali festivities organized by the India Society of Worcester.

BOSTON, MA – The India Society of Worcester (ISW), one of the largest community organizations in New England, brought the spirit of Diwali to downtown Boston with a spectacular celebration at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. The event attracted hundreds of attendees and performers, turning the historic venue into a lively showcase of Indian culture, music, and dance.

In collaboration with Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the evening featured a rich array of performances, including classical music, Bharatanatyam dance, and popular Bollywood routines. A standout moment of the night was the Dhol Tasha segment, which showcased traditional drumming. The performance began with an enthusiastic group of children making their public debut, followed by an exhilarating display by adult drummers that filled the marketplace with infectious rhythms.

“Diwali at Faneuil Hall was a collective effort spanning generations, from young children to grandparents,” said Ashok Kale, the event coordinator. “The enthusiasm of the performers and volunteers made the evening truly memorable. The blend of classical and contemporary performances reflected the richness of our culture.”

The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by colorful Aakash Kandil lanterns, traditional decorations, and cultural activity booths. These elements created an immersive experience that resonated with both Indian American families and the wider Boston community.

The celebration not only highlighted the significance of Diwali but also fostered a sense of unity and cultural exchange among attendees. As the night progressed, the vibrant performances and communal spirit brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the beauty of multiculturalism in Boston.

Overall, the grand Diwali celebration at Faneuil Hall Marketplace served as a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and community engagement, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Source: Original article

Every year, the author reflects on the bittersweet memories of Diwali while shopping for traditional ingredients at an Indian grocery store in Georgia.

Every year before Diwali, I embark on a quiet pilgrimage, not to Tirupathi but to Cherians, the Indian grocery store in Georgia. I tell myself I’m only here for cardamom, for the gulab jamuns I promised to make, but deep down, I know better. I come for the memories, for the bittersweet ache steeped in nostalgia.

As I walk the aisles, I tread carefully, past cumin and turmeric, red Kashmiri chili and coriander seeds, until the tilted, citrus-sweet scent of cardamom envelops me. It is the perfume of my childhood kitchen, where Amma and Avama ruled side by side, much like Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots, their uneasy truce held together by love and a grudging mutual respect. Each festival was a negotiation in flour and fire.

The spice jars glitter under the bright American lights, their labels stamped with distant ports. They have crossed oceans, just as I have, carrying the scent of home in their sealed glass. I can almost see Avama rolling dough for jamuns, her fingers deftly shaping the sweets.

Amma winks at me. “Jamoons should be round, like the moon,” she asserts, with the authority of someone who knows that the name comes from jamun, the Indian blackberry, dark and round. Avama, however, ignores her, continuing to roll. Her jamuns will look nothing like the moon, but their bangles clink like spoons in strawberry Kissan Jam, which leaps off the shelf into my cart as if summoned.

Indian grocery stores are filled with decorations to celebrate Diwali, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and nostalgic.

Then comes the Mysore sandalwood soap, a sharp ambush of scent that transports me back to my childhood. That fragrance is the breath of our bathroom, where shikakai tangled in my hair and muslin towels awaited me. Amma’s voice would trail behind me: “Dry your hair, kanna. Don’t sit on the swing with it wet.” But I always did. I would curl into the beautifully hand-carved walnut wood bench, still dripping, still dreaming, reading Amar Chitra Katha tales of gods and warriors. Meanwhile, Amma coaxed sambrani smoke to rise into my hair like blessings caught mid-air.

The aisle of diyas reminds me that it is Diwali again. What am I doing here, buying too much as usual? Memory travels fast and cruel, across aisles brimming with coriander, mint, eggplants, and ladies’ fingers, past shelves sagging with sweets wrapped in silver and nostalgia—the kind we exchanged at festivals and gave at births.

Yet another tug at my heart: my birth, my special connection to Diwali. I was born to the sound of fireworks and a nation rejoicing. “She is lucky,” they said, the undertone clear, even if she is a girl. “Born on an auspicious day.” Yes, I was spoiled, petted, and pampered, lucky enough to celebrate two birthdays—one by the lunar calendar and one by the Gregorian. But am I still? I wonder.

Now my cart overflows: Mysore sandalwood soaps, Amma’s mango thokku, Osmania biscuits once baked for Nawabs, and Anand Bhavan mixture that Appa loved with his tea. I also have green bananas for old-time-sake bajjis. Not the best for cholesterol, but who cares? It is Diwali. Everything we loved has crossed the seas and now lives on in jars, tins, and cellophane, waiting to be remembered.

As I step into the parking lot, the sky is indifferent. My cart is full, but my heart feels heavier.

Source: Original article

Over 25,000 Celebrate Grand Dussehra & Diwali Festivities Hosted by the Association of Indo Americans (AIA)

The Bay Area came alive in a breathtaking fusion of light, culture, and community spirit as Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka (DDD) 2025 illuminated the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Organized by the Association of Indo Americans (AIA) & Bolly 92.3 FM, the celebration drew an extraordinary crowd of estimated over 25,000 attendees, making it one of the largest and most vibrant Diwali festivals in the nation.

P&G (Proctor & Gamble) served as the presenting sponsor.

From dawn to nightfall, the Fairgrounds pulsed with devotion, color, and festivity. The day began with the sacred Maha Mangal Aarti, invoking blessings of peace and prosperity, followed by the majestic “Durga ma” Rath Yatra (chariot procession), which filled the grounds with devotional chants, music, and a vivid parade of cultural pride. The Ram Leela, a captivating dramatization of the Ramayana, enthralled audiences.

A towering 40-foot effigy of Ravana, brilliantly constructed and artistically detailed, dominated the night sky. As thousands gathered in anticipation, the effigy was set aflame to thunderous applause, its reflection dancing across the grounds. The emotional energy of the Ravan Dahan seamlessly flowed into the festival’s grand finale — Fireworks.

The spectacular fireworks display was nothing short of mesmerizing. With Fireworks, the sky exploded with bright colorful sparks—illuminating the faces of thousands of families, children, and friends gathered in wonder. The grand finale lit up the night with cascading sparkles that symbolized the very essence of Diwali — the triumph of light over darkness.

Throughout the day, over 500 talented performers graced indoor and outdoor stages, presenting an incredible lineup of classical, folk, Bollywood, and fusion performances that celebrated India’s rich cultural tapestry. AIA Idol singing contest & Bolly Tambola were instant hits and crowd favorites. The festival grounds buzzed with energy as guests explored more than 135 vendor booths & 20+ food booths, offering mouthwatering Indian delicacies, festive sweets, traditional clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, Diwali décor, financial, tax & educational segments. The joyous crowd swayed into the night with Garba and Dandia, where thousands danced together beneath a canopy of festive lights, embodying the spirit of unity and joy that defines Diwali.

This year’s celebration carried historic importance as it followed California’s official recognition of Diwali as a state holiday beginning in 2026—a milestone moment for the Indian American community. The event was graced by an esteemed gathering of public officials and dignitaries, reflecting the growing cultural and civic impact of the Indian diaspora in California.

Distinguished Guests Included:

Hon. Rob Bonta, California State Attorney General
Hon. Dr. Srikar Reddy, Consul General of India, San Francisco
Hon. Rakesh Adlakha, Deputy Consul General of India, San Francisco
Hon. David Haubert, Alameda County Supervisor
Hon. Jack Balch, Mayor of Pleasanton
Hon. Raj Salwan, Mayor of Fremont
Hon. Sherry Hu, Mayor of Dublin
Hon. Mark Armstrong, Mayor of San Ramon
Hon. Carmen Montano, Mayor of Milpitas
Hon. Sridhar Verose, Vice Mayor of San Ramon
Hon. Jean Josey, Councilmember, Dublin
Hon. Evan Branning, Councilmember, Livermore

Hon. Rinu Nair, Board of Education, Fremont Unified School District
Ajay Bhutoria, Indo-American Political Leader

Lieutenant Michael Buckhout, Sheriff’s Office of Alameda County
Captain Kurt Schlehuber, Pleasanton Police Department

AIA team specially thanked all the sponsors Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert, Sanjiv Gupta CPA (Fireworks sponsor), Dr Prakash & Rohit Advani (Ravan Dahan), Realtor Lavanya Duvvi, Travelopod, Realtor Nagaraj Annaiah. Other sponsors include Helper Genie, Earth Cleanse, Vachi Silks, Insta service, Azad Financials, My Pursu, ICICI bank, KeyStone Utsav, Tanishq Jewelers, Deekhsa, SriShiva Sai grocery & Coral Academy.

AIA extended heartfelt gratitude to all the performers, vendors, and over 150 volunteers whose dedication made this massive celebration possible.

As fireworks shimmered over the Bay Area sky, Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka 2025 stood as a shining reminder of tradition, togetherness, and the growing cultural resonance of the Indian American community — a celebration that truly lit up California like never before.

California has officially recognized Diwali as a state holiday, following the signing of Assembly Bill 268 by Governor Gavin Newsom on October 6, 2023.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is now an official state holiday in California after Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 268 into law on October 6, 2023. This landmark legislation makes California the first state on the West Coast to formally recognize Diwali, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut.

Assembly Bill 268 will take effect on January 1, 2026. It authorizes K-12 schools and community colleges to close in observance of Diwali, allowing school employees to take the day off with pay. This recognition aims to honor Diwali as a culturally significant day for Indian Americans and the broader South Asian diaspora, as well as for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains of all ethnic backgrounds.

The bill was co-authored by Assemblymembers Ash Kalra (D–San José) and Dr. Darshana Patel (D–San Diego). Kalra expressed his excitement on social media platform X, stating, “It’s official! @cagovernor @gavinnewsom has signed the bill authored AB 268 which makes Diwali an official state holiday in California!” He also thanked the governor and his staff for their hard work on this important legislation.

The Hindu America Foundation has noted that AB 268 encourages the State Board of Education to adopt a model curriculum guide related to Diwali. This initiative aims to educate students about the festival’s significance and promote religious understanding and tolerance within schools. These provisions make California’s legislation regarding Diwali one of the most comprehensive and inclusive in the nation.

Nishtha Raheja Goel, a leader of the grassroots campaign Golden State Diwali, celebrated the bill’s passage, saying, “Woo Hoo!! Diwali Bill AB 268 passed! We have all been part of this historic moment!” The campaign successfully galvanized community support, achieving bipartisan backing as it made its way to the governor’s desk.

Volunteers from the campaign actively engaged with the governor’s office, sending messages that highlighted California’s status as home to the largest population of Indian Americans in the United States. This grassroots effort played a crucial role in the bill’s success.

Goel encouraged the community to continue advocating for their culture and heritage by reaching out to schools and libraries. She emphasized the importance of promoting Diwali through events featuring authors and performing artists, as well as workshops on traditions like yoga, meditation, henna, and rangoli.

When AB 268 successfully passed both houses of the legislature, Kalra remarked on its cultural significance, stating that the bill reflects California’s commitment to inclusivity. “In these uncertain times, Diwali, known as the festival of lights, reminds us of the enduring triumph of light over darkness and offers a much-needed message of hope,” he said.

As Diwali approaches, Kalra noted, “Diwali is in 2 weeks and will be an extra special one for all of us this year!”

Source: Original article

California’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness have profoundly influenced the narratives of Indian immigrant writers, shaping their identities and literary expressions in unique ways.

California has long exerted a significant influence on generations of writers, serving as a horizon of reinvention. The state’s breathtaking landscapes, from the crashing Pacific waves against rugged cliffs to the sprawling deserts and bustling cities, create an environment ripe for creativity. Immigrants arrive in California carrying the weight of their pasts, yet they find their voices reshaped by the vibrant culture and optimism of the West Coast.

As a writer myself, I am inspired by California’s sweeping magnificence. The High Sierras, Big Sur, and Yosemite have all influenced my recent poetry collection, *Yosemite of My Heart – Poems of Adventure in California*.

For the Indian diaspora, California serves as both a destination and a canvas. Software engineers flock to Silicon Valley, students enroll at prestigious institutions like Berkeley and Stanford, and families settle in communities such as Fremont and Cupertino. In their narratives, the freeways, tech campuses, and oceanfronts become more than mere backdrops; they transform into stages where the complexities of identity unfold. In an interview with *The New York Times*, acclaimed writer Jhumpa Lahiri remarked on the theme of “immigrant fiction,” stating, “From the beginnings of literature, poets and writers have based their narratives on crossing borders, on wandering, on exile, on encounters beyond the familiar.” On the West Coast, this sense of exile often evolves into a new beginning, creating a literature that is inextricably linked to California itself.

Writers like Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, who spent many years in California before relocating to Texas, frequently explore the intersection of Indian and American cultures in their works. In her novel *The Mistress of Spices*, Divakaruni sets her mystical shopkeeper in Oakland, a city characterized by its diverse immigrant neighborhoods and gentrification. The multicultural fabric of California becomes a backdrop where magic and memory intertwine. In her collection of poems, *Leaving Yuba City*, she reflects on her Indian experiences in America and California.

Similarly, Minal Hajratwala’s *Leaving India*—a blend of memoir and history—navigates her upbringing in the Bay Area while traversing continents. The freeways and suburbs of California are not just anonymous settings; they are places where immigrant families grapple with their sense of belonging. Hajratwala’s California is a mosaic, a space that is both homeland and in-between land.

Namrata Poddar, an author based in the Greater Los Angeles area, delves into themes of displacement, class, and the quest for belonging in her debut novel, *Border Less*. For these writers, the West Coast is not merely an escape; it is a journey into the self. The fog of San Francisco, the palm-lined boulevards of Los Angeles, and the orchards transformed into tech campuses in Silicon Valley compel new reckonings of identity.

But how does geography influence literary style? The West Coast has historically fostered a different tone compared to the East. While New England produced the dense psychological landscapes of Nathaniel Hawthorne and the glittering angst of F. Scott Fitzgerald, California nurtures a more expansive and restless literary voice.

Consider Joan Didion, one of California’s most celebrated chroniclers. Her upbringing in Sacramento and experiences in Los Angeles shaped her writing style, characterized by clarity and cool detachment. The freeways, Hollywood illusions, and sprawling suburbs inform her prose, rendering it sharp and luminous.

Indian American writers in California often absorb this stylistic lightness. Their narratives frequently exhibit a spaciousness, blending myth with modernity, and resonate with the openness of the West. In Divakaruni’s work, one can sense the Pacific horizon, even when her characters reflect on Calcutta. In Hajratwala’s memoir, the sprawling structure mirrors California’s geographical expanse.

No region has influenced contemporary Indian American life more than Silicon Valley. For many, it is not just a place for career advancement but also a stage for narratives of ambition, alienation, and adaptation. Vauhini Vara’s novel *The Immortal King Rao*, which was longlisted for the Booker Prize, encapsulates this experience. The story follows an Indian immigrant who rises to become a tech titan in California, intertwining family saga, corporate parable, and speculative fiction. Vara, who grew up in the Bay Area, captures both the utopian and dystopian aspects of Silicon Valley, where immigrant dreams clash with the relentless pace of technological innovation.

The Valley itself is becoming a literary landscape—freeways serve as metaphors, startups act as stages for dramatic rises and falls, and tech campuses function as contemporary village squares where diverse communities gather, mingle, and disperse.

The literary tradition of the West Coast extends beyond the immigrant experience. John Steinbeck’s Salinas Valley, immortalized in *East of Eden* and *The Grapes of Wrath*, remains one of the most powerful literary settings in American literature. Jack London’s tales of wilderness and survival were also shaped by his experiences in Oakland and Sonoma County.

For today’s immigrant writers, these literary predecessors hold significant importance. Writing about California means engaging with the legacies of Didion, Steinbeck, London, and others who have turned the state into a literary geography. It also involves expanding the literary canon to include voices from India, Vietnam, the Philippines, and other communities that have reshaped the West.

For Indian American readers, this intertwining of place and prose resonates deeply. Many of us navigate between landscapes—the dusty streets of a remembered hometown in Gujarat or Bengal and the palm trees of Santa Cruz or the fog of Daly City. Our children grow up speaking English infused with Hindi or Tamil at home, straddling both Bollywood and Hollywood.

When we read about Divakaruni’s Oakland or Vara’s Silicon Valley, we see our neighborhoods reflected in literature. Joan Didion’s reflections on the unraveling California dream echo our cautious faith in the immigrant promise. Literature becomes a mirror, where California is not just a backdrop but an active force in shaping our identities.

California continues to write its own narrative. The Indian diaspora, still relatively young, has already produced voices that resonate on a global scale. In the future, more stories will emerge from Fremont, Los Angeles, or the suburbs of Sacramento.

Upon my arrival in California, I felt the pulse of this place—in the long workdays, the optimism of startups, and the intensity of reinvention. Yet, in quieter moments, I found myself reaching for poetry to reconcile ambition with memory.

Geography and place have infused literature for centuries and will continue to do so. Just as Steinbeck’s Salinas became myth and Didion’s Los Angeles became legend, so too will immigrant California—with its fusion restaurants, temple courtyards, and tech corridors—take root in prose and verse. For now, the Indian diaspora writes between two worlds, with California as both host and collaborator. Place is not merely where we live; it is what teaches us how to tell our stories. The truth of the immigrant writer lies in belonging not to a single place but to the dialogue between the places we have inhabited, with our stories forged in the act of crossing.

Source: Original article

A Polish woman living in Kerala captivated locals by participating in the traditional Pulikali dance during the Onam festival, showcasing her enthusiasm for the vibrant cultural celebration.

A Polish woman residing in Kerala recently captured the attention of the local community by learning the celebrated Pulikali, or tiger dance, during the Onam festivities. She joined local performers in Thrissur, where she enthusiastically attempted to mimic the intricate dance moves while immersing herself in the rhythms and energy of the celebration.

Reflecting on her experience, she expressed her surprise at finding herself in Thrissur, swept up by the lively drumbeats and cheers as she practiced Pulikali under the guidance of local artists. Although she did not don the traditional painted tiger stripes, she was warmly welcomed to participate, fully embracing the cultural spirit of the event.

The public’s response was overwhelmingly positive, with viewers expressing admiration for her willingness to engage with the local tradition. Many praised the vibrant cultural display that the Pulikali dance represents, highlighting the importance of such exchanges in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse customs.

Pulikali, which translates to “tiger play,” is a folk art form that is performed during Onam, particularly in the Thrissur region. Dancers typically paint their bodies in vivid colors—yellow, red, and black—to resemble tigers or leopards. The performance is characterized by synchronized movements set to the beat of traditional percussion instruments such as the chenda and thakil. This captivating dance is not only a spectacle but also a ritual, drawing large crowds who cheer as performers enact scenes of the tiger’s mythical hunts.

The Polish woman’s participation in the Pulikali dance serves as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the universal language of celebration. Her experience highlights the joy of learning and participating in traditions that may be far removed from one’s own background, fostering connections among diverse communities.

As the Onam festivities continue to unfold, the enthusiasm surrounding the Pulikali dance remains palpable, with both locals and visitors celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. The Polish woman’s journey into this vibrant tradition exemplifies how art and dance can transcend geographical boundaries, uniting people through shared experiences and joy.

According to Global Net News, the event not only showcased the beauty of Kerala’s cultural practices but also emphasized the importance of inclusivity in celebrations, encouraging individuals from various backgrounds to come together and participate in the festivities.

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