Together, We Can Make A Difference
- IAF Diwali Celebration 2005
- Katrina Relief Efforts
- IAF Social
-
Mumbai Disaster Relief
- Faces of America Parade
-
Farewell Reception for Hon. Skand Tayal
- Fort Bend Salutes America
- Holi
Chairman’s
Report - 1st Year Progress and Milestones (July 2004 -
July 2005)
August 1st, 2005
With a great sense of gratitude I present to you the first annual report of your organization – Indo American Forum of Fort Bend (IAF). As of July 2005, we have completed the first milestone year of our existence. Currently we have more than 100 paid members representing the broader interest of thousands of Indian Americans living in the local area.
Indeed your trust and support laid the foundation for a very progressive year. The Indo American Forum of Fort Bend is Not-For-Profit Organization with 501 ( C)-3 status. We have duly filed our Tax Exempt Entity Tax Returns for fiscal/calendar year ending December 31, 2004. Your organization enjoys sound financial condition as of this writing.
Our efforts of building a progressive organization started with the development of a Web Site. Today this well designed platform (www.IndoAmericanForum.Org) for communication is functioning well and meeting our needs.
With the initiation of the Indo American Forum of Fort Bend, year 2004 became a defining year for the Indian American community. IAF was fortunate to get high visibility on ABC TV community show program. This was followed by a very impressive Diwali celebration. Traditional Diya Dance and Rass Dance were the highlight of this sumptuous event. This was the first major Diwali celebration in Fort Bend County and it was attended by many elected officials and numerous distinguished guests. IAF received very positive press coverage and encouraging participation.
At Thanksgiving, your organization donated money to buy a fine traditional meal at the Fort Bend Women Center. We made a small contribution to the National Council of Fire Safety of Children. The IAF board and members actively participated in Diwali celebration at the Houston City Hall. Also, your board members interacted with the prominent political leaders to ensure desired the visibility of Indo American Forum as a premier Indo American organization in Fort Bend County.
Year 2005 started with the introduction of the Indo American Forum (IAF) to key city officials and leadership. IAF board members were invited to represent you all on the City of Sugar Land’s multi-ethnic committee to further enrich city’s diversity initiatives. At India’s Independence Day celebration, Human Resources Department from the City of Sugar Land took a booth to further promote Equal Employment Opportunities in the city government.
First of its kind Holi Celebration took place at Oyster Creek Park. Again, the City of Sugar Land administrative leaders presided over the celebration. The Holi Celebration in Fort Bend was a well planned and well attended event. IAF members attended Memorial Day Celebration at the City of Sugar Land City Hall. Members of IAF participated in City of Sugar Land’s 5-K Run and Indo American Charity Foundation’s Walk-A-Thon event.
On July 4 Independence Day celebration in Oyster Creek Park, your organization – Indo American Forum provided free cold bottled water. Also, IAF members participated in the parade at Oyster Creek Park. Hon. Mayor of the City of Sugar Land recognized and complemented your organization – Indo American Forum for offering free cold water at the event. IAF joined major Indo American organizations to celebrate the farewell ceremony of the Consul General of India based in Houston, Texas. Similarly IAF was instrumental in the farewell party of Deputy Consul General of India in Sugar Land, Texas. The Indo American Forum leadership was invited by Houston Airport System to invite Air India to operate from Houston in Southwest US.
As stated here, your organization –the Indo American Forum of Fort Bend- has engaged in a constructive manner to promote the greater good of the entire community. Our emphasis of shared vision and unity of purpose has been well achieved in the first twelve months of it’s existence. It is needless to mention that all this was possible because of your supportive board members and many invaluable volunteers. On behalf of you and the entire community, I thank them. Finally, I am extremely grateful to each and every one of you for placing your trust in me and the board of IAF. Your investment in IAF is at work to promote the positive image of the community.
Looking forward, we see an equally productive year ahead. Our vision is limited only to the level of available resources – volunteer man power and financial. Your organization has a big dream for the entire Indian American community residing in Fort Bend County. Let us commit ourselves to making a bigger impact in the coming months and years, to leave a rich and recognizable heritage of Indian American community.
Together we can make a positive difference! I invite you to participate in this journey.
Very Sincerely Yours,
Harvinder Arora
Chairman of the Board,
Indo American Forum of Fort Bend
IAF Diwali Celebration 2005
Indo American Forum of Fort Bend celebrated Diwali on October 30th, 2005. This year's celebrations embodied the frontier state of Rajasthan and its majestic splendors. In attendance were a cross section of distinguished guests and members and invited dignitaries. The event drew wide press coverage in USA and India. For full report, please see Shobana Muratee's, Kalyani Giri's and Seema Kachru's articles press coverage, following this article.
The Ambassador of India, His Excellency, Mr. Ronen Sen could not attend but conveyed his greetings for the occasion. Ambassador Ronen Sen " I am glad that the Diwali celebrations by the Indo-American Forum on October 30th was a successful and joyous event."
The Indian Consul General, Hon. ShashiShekhar M. Gavai, graced the occasion, and was welcomed by more than 300 people attending the Diwali Celebrations. Hon. S.M. Gavai conveyed a warm Diwali message of peace and advised everyone present to continue on with the celebrations of Diwali, in spite of the terrorist attacks in New Delhi. .
Indo American Forum welcomes and thanks the Consul General of India, Hon. ShashiShekhar M. Gavai for being our newest member.
The Hon. Mayor Leonard Scarcella of Stafford proclaimed October 30th, 2005, as the Indo American Forum of Fort Bend Day.
Indo American Forum (IAF) also received Proclamation from the Hon. Mayor David Wallace of Sugar Land, who stressed on the important role played by Indo American Forum in building the bridges in multi-ethnic community of Sugar Land and Fort Bend.
Indo American Forum would like to thank the following sponsors for the Diwali Gala 2005.
GOLD SPONSORS:
Alkire Subway ( Govind and Renu Agrawal)
Sterling Bank
SILVER SPONSORS:
Corporate:
Bombay Brasserie ( Kuku and Diana Sehgal)
Bytek Technologies Inc. ( K.C. and Maya Mehta )
Collision Plus (Ashwini & Ameeta Patel)
Kirti Jewelers ( Suresh and Usha Shenoy)
Jom Wine & Spirit ( Pravin Mehta and Jayesh Patel)
Merrill Lynch
SNA Capital Partners ( Shekhar and Ruby Agrawal )
Sugar Land Med-Ped Clinic Inc. ( Dr. Subodh and Sonal Bhuchar)
Sunbelt Medical Corp. ( Sunil & Rashmi Sharma)
United Central Bank
Individuals:
Harvinder & Ranjit Arora
Dr. Kirit and Sarala Desai
Himesh Gandhi
Harish & Shashi Jajoo
Raj & Hansa Naran
Naren & Hansa Patel
Upendra & Rita Sahu
Volunteers:
Indo American Forum acknowledges the efforts of the following volunteers:
Sarah Abraham, Ruby Agrawal, Ranjit Arora, Anita Bhandari, Sonal Bhuchar, Gogi Dugal, Usha Ganju, Indra Grover, Shashi Jajoo, Nitin Kapadia, Dr. Sandhya Krishan, Manmeet Likhari, Maya Mehta, Raju Nandagiri, Dr. Mala Nityanand, Rathna Panday, Rajesh Parikh, Hansa Patel, Jasmin Patel, Jyothi Rao, Rita Sahu, Sachin Shenoy, Amrita Thakkar and Rachel Verghese.
Tarana Group and Anjali School of Dance for the folk dance performances, Sangeeta Pasrija for the delightful and hilarious ethnic humor of Rajasthan and Alpa Shah for a fine job of emceeing the program.
IAF thanks each and every one of the above for a splendid job.
Read the great reviews in the press ...
IAF of Fort Bend Celebrates Diwali - The Rajasthani Style
By Shobana Muratee
STAFFORD- The regal décor in vibrant red baandini, the signature tie-n-dye of Rajasthan, the traditional diyas that glowed randomly in the hall, the colorful rangoli, the rag puppets that hung loosely from the center of the ceiling, were all part of a vivacious Rajasthani theme that set off the Diwali celebrations on Sunday, Oct. 30 at the Sugar Land Banquet Hall, hosted by Indo-American Forum of Fort Bend (IAF).
This year’s celebrations, though laced with the human tragedies brought forth equally by nature and man through earthquake, hurricanes and terrorists attack, failed to cow down the spirit of celebrating life and all the good that is ahead of us.Welcoming the guests, IAF founder member and Vice-Chair, K.C. Mehta said, “Although, it is hard to uplift the spirit of the people at times such as now, we have put in our best effort to create a festive atmosphere for you all.” He later explained the objectives of IAF and the goals set for the years to come. “IAF will strive to uplift social, cultural, civic and other noble humanitarian ideals to ensure a better tomorrow for all,” he assured. A host of dignitaries were present, including Fort Bend County District Attorney John Healey, Sugar Land ex-Mayor Hon. Dean Hrbacek, Sugar Land Council Member at Large Hon. Tom Abraham, Sugar Land Police Chief, Mr. Steve Griffith. Also, attending the event were Ron Booker, Candidate for State Representative District 26, Rick Forlano, Judicial Candidate for County Court-at-Law Judge as well as the candidate for Fort Bend Treasurer Naren Patel.
Heads of organizations, Shekhar Agrawal, of Arya Samaj, Sheela Rao of IACF, Sunil Sharma, Lt. Governor, Rotary Clubs of Houston, Ashok Dhingra IHC, Jagdip Ahluwalia of IACCGH, Anil Shah, Pratham-USA, and Ramesh Shah, GSGH were recognized on the occasion for their support to Indo American Forum.
In his Diwali greetings, Hon. Consul General of India pointed out that there are evil forces and distorted minds who would like to disrupt this joy and diminish the lights. He was refereeing to the recent terrorist bomb blasts that shook the India capital city New Delhi took innocent lives. The best way to deal with a situation like this would in a united manner, without panicking he explained. “We have known terrorism before and will not be intimidated by such acts, people of India have decided to celebrate Diwali and so should we,” he said revamping the festive mood.
Chairman IAF, Harvinder Arora who stirred the organization to a whole different level within such a short span of time was highly appreciated by his fellow members and also the Mayors of Sugar Land and Stafford. What started as a humble website, a platform for communication, is today’s leading Indo-American organization in the Fort Bend County serving its county and its residents. IAF has since become a part of Sugar Land’s multi-ethnic community and served as a platform for showcasing the rich culture and traditions of India and its people through celebrations of its festivals and observing India’s Independence Day. IAF also participated in City of Sugar Land’s 5-K Run and IACF Walk-a-Thon event to help keep the city’s reputation of being the fittest.“This year’s Diwali has outdone our last year’s celebration in every sense,” Harvinder Arora commented. “The level of commitment of our members, the drive, the spirit of participation of our people and above all we could sense the satisfaction of our friends and well wishers,” he added.
IAF Founder member Shekhar Agarwal received a proclamation from the Mayor of the City of Sugar Land, David Wallace. Speaking of the Indian American community, Mayor Wallace said, “This is a very responsive community, they bend backwards to serve. All you have to do is call.” He also recognized Councilman Tom Abraham and IAF Chairman, Harvinder Arora for their contributions to the City of Sugar Land.Mayor of Stafford, Leonard Scarcella observed that the Indian American community has grown a great deal in the past decade and contribute significantly to the growth and development of the Fort Bend County. “I’ve seen their incredible vision to become a part of the community and a part of the political process, I’ve seen how the children have led their classes, became leaders, I’ve seen how strong this community has become in the economic development, specially in City of Stafford,” Scarcella praised liberally. “The Indian American community has literally brought light to the American community,” he said, touching the hearts of those present. He later presented a proclamation to IAF founder member Sunny Sharma, declaring Oct. 30 as the Indo-American Forum of Fort Bend Day.
Naren Patel, founder member and candidate for Fort Bend County Treasurer, greeted the guests and gave a report on the ‘Vision and Mission’ of IAF. The organization successfully completed its first anniversary in month of July and has come a long way since its inception in July 2004. The IAF currently has more then 100 paid members from a good cross section of the community and representing the broader interest the thousands of the local Indian Americans.
Heightening the mood and the theme was the vivacious Rajasthani folk dances, set to the fast paced beat of the songs ‘Dholi Thaaro Dhol Baaje’ and ‘Mera Asi Kali Ka Ghagra’ presented by the students of Anjali School of Dance and Tarana Group respectively. A narration on Diwali by Sachin Shenoy was very enlightening and later, Sangita Pasricha, took a few digs at the Rajasthanis, dialect and all, with her light humored jokes on a typical Rajasthani couple.A sumptuous feast catered by Bombay Brassiere followed the conclusion of the program that was efficiently emceed by Alpa Shah. Dr. Subodh Bhuchar, IAF founder member proposed a vote of thanks after which the guests were entertained to some light music and dance.
Indo American Forum Celebrates Diwali with Colorful Rajasthani Themed Gala
By Kalyani Giri
November 04,2005HOUSTON — Rajasthan was celebrated when the Indo American Forum of Fort Bend (IAF) ushered in Diwali with a grand gala. The 2nd Annual Gala event, held at the Sugar Land Banquet Hall on October 30, drew a capacity gathering of residents from the Fort Bend County and surrounding areas. In attendance was the Consul General of India to Houston, Hon. S.M. Gavai. Also present were the mayors of the City of Sugar Land and the City of Stafford, Hon. David Wallace and Hon. Leonard Scarcella, respectively. From the vivid rangoli, to a cornucopia of colorful artistry harkening back to the deserts of Rajasthan, further embellishment transforming the hall into a festive rendezvous included saree and kurtha-clad puppets suspen-ded from red-draped rafters. Youngsters dressed in their festive best, greeted guests at the entrance with the traditional namaste.
The IAF, a secular service organization formed to further the goodwill of the Indo-American community in the social, cultural, civic, and humanitarian arenas, prides itself on being the reflection pool showcasing the values and richly diverse heritage of the community. The gala brought together representation from the many world religions to join in the Hindu celebration of Diwali, the festival of lights. Following a social hour, the program began with the lighting of the lamps and a welcome address by Vice Chairman of IAF, K.C. Mehta. Naren Patel of the IAF Board of Trustees elaborated on the mission and milestone work of the organization. He told of IAF’s fundraising efforts benefiting Fort Bend County Womens’ Center and the
National Council of Fire Safety of Children.
Mayor Wallace hailed IAF as a “phenomenal organization”. He presented IAF with a proclamation honoring the festival of Diwali.
“This is not only a celebration of lights, but also a celebration of the light within,” said Mayor Wallace. “In your celebrating the Hindu New Year, you are sharing your rich culture with us and promoting cultural diversity. I admire the Indo-American community for their civic-mindedness,” he added.
Stafford City Mayor Scarcella also offered IAF a proclamation commemorating the spirit of the day.
“You come to this country speaking different languages, and your children easily get to the top of the class,” said the mayor. “You hold so many roles in this city. Truly, the Indian community has brought light to the American community,” he added.
Consul General Gavai, in addition to wishing the community well on the occasion of Diwali, brought a somber note to the event when he urged gatherees to remember those who lost their lives in the recent New Delhi bomb blasts suspected to have been carried out by a Pakistan-based militant outfit Laskhar-e-Tayiba.
“Not to dampen your spirits, but there are evil forces, distorted minds, who bring sorrow to others. If I know my people, I know they will not be cowed by this as we have known terrorism in the past. We cannot panic or be intimidated, but with determination must celebrate Diwali and go forward. We are partners with the US in the fight against terrorism,” said Hon. Gavai.
With colorful garb and flowing head-dress, Rajasthani folk dances performed by Sugar Land-based dance troupes Tarang, and the Anjali Center for Performing Arts, added grace to the event. Stand-up comic Sangita Pasricha drew laughter with her presentation of Husti Musti.
Dinner was sumptuous fare catered by Bombay Brasserie. Eloquence came in the warmth of Mistress of Ceremonies Alpa Shah’s voice as she deftly directed the event.
Chairman of IAF Harvinder Arora was clearly elated with the success of the gala.
“The gala planning committee did an outstanding job in putting forth this beautiful event. IAF is committed to creating a more positive climate for the Indo-American community to assimilate seamlessly into the mainstream. I know that if we work together, we can make a difference,” said Arora. Future plans, he added, included continuing to work with mainstream as well as within the local Indo-American communities.For further information about the IAF, visit www.IndoAmericanForum.org
Excerpts from Seema Kachru's article in Hindustan Times
Indo-American Forum of Fort bend (IAF), which promotes secularism and multiculturalism in America; provides a platform for Indian Americans to socialize and perform useful community services, organized colorful and grand Diwali gala. This year the gala celebrated Rajasthan, enabling guests to take a visual ride through the desert state by way of vibrant decor, riot of colors, bandhinis all the way, traditional diyas, rangoli, rag puppets hung loosely from the ceiling and Rajasthani folk dances on the Bollywood tune. Everyone attending the gala wore Rajasthani dress, adding glamour to the festivities. Kids dressed in their festive best, greeted guests at the entrance with the traditional namaste and tilak ceremony.The Consul General of India to Houston, Hon SM Gavai, the mayors of the City of Sugar Land and the City of Stafford, David Wallace and Leonard Scarcella, attended the gala respectively. Mayor Wallace and Mayor Scarcella presented IAF with a proclamation honouring the festival of Diwali.
Katrina Relief Efforts
Sugar Creek Baptist Church, Sugar Land, hosted an " IAF Day" on September 17th, 2005, for Indo American Forum where IAF members and volunteers participated in a food drive for Hurricane Katrina victims. IAF was joined by Arya Samaj of Greater Houston who sent in their contribution of food and essential items.
The volunteering efforts made a very positive impact with mainstream America where all members of community joined hands together to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Approximately 40-50 families contributed in the 4 hour slot to help the victims.
A cross section of the community participated. IAF members K. C. Mehta, Ashok Shelat, Harish Jajoo and Nitin Kapadia spearheaded these efforts and were joined by Suresh Shenoy, Harvinder Arora, Ajit Thakkar, Maya Mehta, Hansa Patel, Ranjit Arora and Anita Bhandari, along with volunteer organizations from mainstream America. Indo American Community efforts were appreciated by Pastor Jeff Young who welcomed their support.
It was heartening to see Indo Americans come with car loads of food and hygiene items. Bal and Kamna Sharma donated quality new blankets. Abundance of items from Mayank Parikh and family was also very appreciated. Dr. Arvind and Anita Bhandari were over generous in their support.
Over all it was a day which merited goodwill and generosity of more than 45 families helping in times of need. A small beginning but another step forward in building goodwill for Indo Americans was initiated by IAF members.
On the joint efforts to raise money for feeding the evacuees, 39 Indo American Organizations pledged financial support of $1000 and above. IAF's pledge of $ 2500.00 was met by the generous contributions of the following members:
DONORS: Tom & Sarah Abraham Harvinder & Ranjit Arora Dr. Raj and Kanwal Bhalla Dr. Arvind & Anita Bhandari Ajit & Gogi Dugal Anonymous Donor Anonymous Donor Hansa Patel Upendra & Rita Sahu Abhishek Verma Credit Card Charges Total
The amount was handed over to IACF for disbursement to different charitable organizations, catering to the evacuees.
Indo American Forum of Fort Bend's report on Mumbai Monsoon Relief Fund.
Indo American Forum thanks all supporters and donors for their generosity in giving to the needy families affected by the Mumbai Monsoon Flooding.
Indo American Forum was supported it its efforts by the following organizations:
India House
Indo American Charity Foundation
Indo American Chamber of Commerce
IIT Alumni of Greater Houston
Rotary Clubs and Rotarians Sunil Sharma and Jagdip Ahluwalia.
Indo American Forum had initially received a request from Rotary Club of North Mumbai Island for a sum of only $ 3500 and that has been met very easily. Subsequently, the request has been increased but we will limit our donation to the amount collected.
Below is the list of donors.
DONORS: IIT Alumni of Greater Houston Indo American Charity Foundation Indo American Forum of Fort Bend India House Rotary Clubs Beechnut Dialysis Center (Drs. Satish Patel & Pinakin Patel) Harvinder & Ranjit Arora Chesley & Tanaz Choudhury Anonymous Donor Ajit & Gogi Dugal Bhagwan & Shanti Hingorani Atul B. Kothari Jaspreet & Tanya Pal Naren & Hansa Patel Sachin & Saunin Patel Atul & Bindu Puri Suman Ramesh Madhav & Aneesha Rohira Chamalie Singh Ebrahim & Judy Tavawalla Credit Card Charges Total
There were various other pledges made, but we have not received the money as of the time of printing. Above sum will be wired to Rotary Club in Mumbai, on receipt of their banking instructions. Any further amounts received after August 31 cut off date, will be diverted to Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts. Please donate on line at www.indoAmericanForum.org as well. Thank You.
IAF SocialTo further promote the friendship and fellowship, Indo American Forum of Fort Bend ( www.indoamericanForum.Org ) held a Social at Comfort Suites Conference Center in Stafford, on Sunday, August 21, 2005 More than 100 members and friends of IAF enjoyed a very pleasant evening that comprised of dinner, dance and music.
A spokesman for the board shared the achievements of last twelve months. Membership was inspired to volunteer to further promote the positive image of Indo American community living in Fort Bend County.
Three of the IAF members – Paul Likhari, Sunny Sharma and Rick Pal were specially recognized for reaching the finalist categories of the IACCGH Annual Gala that took place a fortnight ago. Their contribution to the community was applauded. Mr. Paul Likhari was awarded the “Entrepreneur of the Year” award at that event. Also, a special mention was made for Mr. Sunil Sharma’s appointment as a Lt. Governor of the Rotary International serving Greater Houston area. Attendees and all others were requested to contribute to Bombay Monsoon Relief Fund.
This casual event of like minded people was the venue for introduction of quality wines and beers from India through a major North American distributorship of these Indian beverages and spirits based in Houston. Also, Mr. Pravin Mehta and Mr. Jayesh Patel, principals of this enterprise were recognized for their contribution.
Fine music and songs, by IAF members, Dr. Subodh Bhuchar, Mr. Ashok Shelat and Mr. Suresh Shenoy was enjoyed by one and all. This very entertaining event was underwritten by IAF to further the noble objectives of the organization. To join and participate in IAF efforts, please visit www.IndoAmericanForum.org .
Faces of America Parade
It was the first occasion that an Indian organization, Indo American Forum of Fort Bend, the premier Indo American organization in Fort Bend County, was selected to participate in the July 4th parade hosted by the City of Sugar Land.
It was a well orchestrated parade with a few different cultural groups from Fort Bend County.
IAF members were pleased to serve free cold water bottles to all the participants in the parade and guests at the Park. It was a welcome relief after the parade. This gesture was lauded by City officials and Mayor David Wallace as well in his speech addressing the approximately 11000 attendees present to celebrate the event.
Quite a few IAF members and guests representing a cross section of the community, turned out to serve water and participate in the parade. Some of them included, Council Member, Hon. Tom Abraham, Harvinder Arora, Prithipal S. Bhachu, Dr. Arvind and Anita Bhandari, Ajit & Gogi Dugal, Harish and Shashi Jajoo, Abraham Joseph, K .C. and Maya Mehta, Naren and Hansa Patel, Sunil Sharma, and Ajit & Rita Thakkar.
Earlier in the morning, some of IAF members also participated in the 5K run at the Lost Creek Park, benefiting Fort Bend Corps. Please review the Photo Gallery of IAF members
Farewell Reception for Hon. Skand Tayal
A farewell Party was hosted by Indo American Forum of Fort Bend along with other leading Indo American Organizations in Greater Houston on June 28th, 2005. It was a befitting farewell to Consul General who worked with each and every organization in the promotion of unity and creation of goodwill. The Consul General has been a silent and ardent supporter of Indo American Forum for bridging the cultural bridge between India and America, which is one of the goals of Indo American Forum.
A large number of IAF members turned out at the Farewell Party which was a great success. Please review the Photo Gallery of IAF members at the Farewell Party.
Fort Bend Salutes America
Fort Bend's 3rd Countywide Memorial Day Ceremony titled "Fort Bend Salutes America" was held on Monday, May 30th, Memorial Day at the Sugar Land Town Square.
Memorial Day, originally called, Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who died in our nation's service.
The event was chaired by Fort Bend County Constable, Troy Nehls and guests included eminent personalities, US Congressman, Tom Delay, Mayor David Wallace, City of Sugar Land, Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson, Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers and Fort Bend Sheriff Milton Wright and few others.
Indo American Forum of Fort Bend and some of its members were present to support this cause.
IAF members, Harvinder Arora, K. C. Mehta and Naren Patel with Constable Troy Nehls.
Music was rendered by Daystar Project immediately after the Memorial Day Ceremony.
Holi
Holi was celebrated with great enthusiasm on Saturday, March 19th, 2005 at Oyster Creek Park, Sugar Land. It was a great opportunity to show case another one of India's much celebrated festivals to non Indo Americans in the Fort Bend. We thank each and every one of the participants and volunteers for their help.
As the brief spring warms the landscape, northern India cuts loose for a day of fun and hilarity. The festival of Holi is celebrated on the day after the full moon in early March every year.
Originally a festival to celebrate good harvests and fertility of the land, Holi is now a symbolic commemoration of a legend from Hindu Mythology. The story centers around an arrogant king who resents his son Prahlada worshipping Lord Vishnu. He attempts to kill his son but fails each time. Finally, the king's sister Holika who is said to be immune to burning, sits with the boy in a huge fire. However, the prince Prahlada emerges unscathed, while his aunt burns to death. Holi commemorates this event from mythology, and huge bonfires are burnt on the eve of Holi as its symbolic representation.
Although Holi is observed all over the North, it's celebrated with special joy and zest at Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandgaon, and Barsana. These towns once were the abode of the divine Krishna. This exuberant festival is also associated with the immortal love of Krishna and Radha, and hence, Holi is spread over 16 days in Vrindavan as well as Mathura - the two cities with which Lord Krishna shared a deep affiliation. Apart from the usual fun with colored powder and water, Holi is marked by vibrant processions which are accompanied by folk songs, dances and a general sense of abandoned vitality.
Today Holi is an excuse for Indians to shed inhibitions and caste differences for a day of spring fever and Big Fun. Teenagers spend the day flirting and dancing in the streets, adults extend the hand of peace, and everyone chases everyone else around, throwing brightly colored powder (gulal) and water over each other.
The festival's preamble begins on the night of the full moon. Bonfires are lit on street corners to cleanse the air of evil spirits and bad vibes, and to symbolize the destruction of the wicked Holika, for whom the festival was named. The following morning, the streets fill with people running, shouting, giggling and splashing color.
Promptly at noon, in India, the craziness comes to an end and everyone heads to either the river or the bathtub, then inside to relax the day away and partake of candies. In the afternoon an exhausted and contented silence falls over India.
Each area celebrates Holi differently; the Bhil tribesmen of western Madhya Pradesh, who've retained many of their pre-Hindu customs, celebrate Holi in a unique way. In rural Maharashtra State, where the festival is known as Rangapanchami . It is celebrated with dancing and singing. In the towns of Rajasthan especially Jaisalmer, the music's great, and clouds of pink, green, and turquoise powder fill the air. The grounds of Jaisalmer's Mandir Palace are turned into chaos, with dances, folk songs, and colored-powder confusion.
