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IAGB Community Conversation
IAGB asked the community, “What does Patriotism Mean to You?”
Kadak Chai Band replied:
“Patriotism means celebrating our rich cultural heritage while embracing diverse influences from the world. Its about honoring our roots through our Bollywood Rock Fusion, uniting people, and inspiring pride and respect for our country through the universal language of music.”
Prerna Mathur replied:
“Patriotism to me means respecting the fundamental rights and privileges of every citizen. As they are for me, they are for everyone. Patriotism to me means being thankful and appreciative of the freedom I have to live my life, my way. Patriotism to me is giving back selflessly to the community.”
Sanjay Kudrimoti replied:
“Patriotism to me means appreciating the freedoms and opportunities provided to me and to everyone residing in the country. Patriotism to me means respect of law and order, paying my taxes to provide for the security and services I take for granted. Patriotism to me means giving back to community.”
Yogita Miharia replied:
“Patriotism to me is love, pride, loyalty, commitment, respect and devotion for one’s country. To be patriotic, one must engage in civic duties, uphold and obey the laws, understand the history and culture, promote unity and defend the rights and freedom of the country.”
IAGB Community Spotlight
Community Spotlight - July 2024 - Seshi R. Sompuram PhD.
Seshi’s journey began in Sompuram, a small village in Telangana, India. He attended middle, high school and junior college in Gadwal, a town renowned for its sarees. He completed his undergraduate studies at Osmania University in Hyderabad and earned his Master’s degree at Boston College. Later, he pursued a PhD in Immunology and postdoctoral research at Boston University School of Medicine, focusing on antibody engineering and the development of therapeutic antibodies.
His professional journey continued at CytoLogix, a diagnostics company later acquired by Agilent Technologies. He co-founded Boston Cell Standards Inc. (BCS) with Dr. Bogen, where he serves as the VP and co-inventor of the technology. BCS is dedicated to creating innovative, quantitative cancer testing standards that significantly reduce error rates. His primary focus has been on technology development and clinical trials.
Seshi shared, “Our clinical trials with our products for breast and lung cancer across the US, Canada, the Netherlands, and Eastern Europe has shown that our standards can identify poorly performing tests and alert labs. Recently, we received FDA approval for our cancer biopsy testing control standards and certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Our main clients are hospital biopsy testing labs and pharmaceutical companies developing antibody-based cancer therapies. We hope our standards will be adapted in hospital labs worldwide, thereby reducing testing errors.”
For past 24 years, he has been a passionate volunteer at Shishu Bharati, which is a 47-year-old non-profit organization at three locations (high schools in Lexington, Nashua, and Walpole), with approximately 850 students, 200 volunteers, and 80 student volunteers. It is a Sunday school that teaches Indian languages and culture to students from kindergarten through 8th grade. Seshi spent the first eight years teaching 1st grade Telugu language, served two years as Secretary, and six terms as President. He expressed that Shishu Bharati has been one of the best experiences of his life. Teaching his mother tongue, Telugu, to first graders has been a proud and rewarding experience, with former students still expressing their gratitude and keeping in touch with him.
As President, he had the honor of working with colleagues across all three Shishu Bharati locations, an experience that was both humbling and enriching. India New England News aptly described Shishu Bharati as “volunteerism at its best.” Seshi felt fortunate to be part of this fine institution, with dedicated volunteers, some with over four decades of service, and a mission to “perceive, preserve, and promote” Indian heritage to the next generations.
In 2023, with the help of colleagues, Seshi established the Shishu Bharati Alumni Association. Alumni are now actively involved, forming a strong network that supports each other and Shishu Bharati. Over the past decade, he has also helped students gain university recognition for Shishu Bharati’s language curriculum, often resulting in waiving language requirement and getting academic credits. He also facilitated obtaining citations and honors from Massachusetts Governor and Senate Offices, recognizing excellence in teaching and contributing to Commonwealth diversity.
Throughout his time at Shishu Bharati, Seshi had the privilege of working with various regional organizations, including IAGB. His collaboration with IAGB has been particularly rewarding, leading to a successful lecture series by Shishu Bharati’s culture teachers, and performances by kindergarten and 1st-grade students at IAGB’s iconic annual events year after year.
Seshi Sompuram has been a steadfast supporter of IAGB and a trusted thought partner for over two decades, always showing up with great vigor and enthusiasm. IAGB appreciates Seshi for promoting India’s cultural and academic heritage with unparalleled humility and passion.
IAGB Community Conversation
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Ekta Jain, Ekta School of Dance:
It was a gratifying experience for the students of Ekta Dance Academy to perform for New England Senior Expo & Cultural exchange 2024. Students of EDA were able to showcase their rich cultural heritage of India in front of the Indo-American community, with the support of the welcome Town of Billerica. What a wonderful opportunity to build bridges between cultures and to allow our students to show off their talents! We also visited various booths and thoroughly enjoyed henna tattoos, jwelery, Indian food etc. We look forward to perform again next year.
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Geeta Vallecha, Yoga Expert
I recently had the lovely opportunity to lead a yoga session at a senior expo, where I met many seniors and people of all ages who joined my session. The event was impressively organized, and I learned a great deal about the unique resources available for seniors.
It was heartwarming to see so many participants join the yoga session in an open field. We all enjoyed the warm weather and sunlight, creating a perfect setting for practicing yoga. I loved sharing my favorite topic: the incredible benefits of yoga at any age. The participants were very receptive to my message, and it was a joy to see their enthusiasm.
Yoga offers numerous benefits for seniors, including enhanced flexibility, balance, and strength, which are essential for maintaining mobility and preventing falls. It also improves joint health and alleviates symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis. Mentally, yoga promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being and mental clarity.
I cherish teaching yoga online, as it allows people from any town or location to join my sessions and experience the many benefits of yoga. Connecting with such a diverse group at the expo was a delightful reminder of how yoga can bring people together and enrich lives at any age.
Thank you IAGB for the most informative and well executed expo for Seniors.
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Moumita Banerjee, Tarana School of Kathank:
Thanks to IAGB for another successful event filled with innovation, insights, and invaluable connections. It has been a wonderful experience for me to be a part of Senior Expo. I have met so many seniors, caregivers and members of the community at the events. enjoyed music, dancing and networking at the IAGB 2024 Senior Expo. I learned how the team came to develop such an amazing project to make the Expo experience one remember. had an amazing experience.
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Shikha Vashishtha, Studio Bollywood:
IAGB once again showed its true community spirit. This time it was the Senior Expo. A very well organized and smoothly run event. There were many quality vendors and various options to explore on health and wellness, food, clothing and the like. The expo offered something for everyone. I had a great time conducting the flash mob dance at the event and it was wonderful having people of all ages join me and dance to tune of Bollywood beats ! I wish IAGB the very best and look forward to the senior expo next year.
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Swasti Bhargava – founder, Swasti School of Dance:
The New England Senior Expo, organized by IAGB in collaboration with the Town of Billerica, was a fantastic event that brought the community together and showcased our culture on a global stage. I had the privilege of leading a flash mob as the grand finale, getting not only the entire gathered community to dance but also the enthusiastic IAGB committee members.
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Swati Athale, Art Expert:
I had a fantastic time at the New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024, organized by IAGB. I contributed to the Rangoli festival art for the town of Billerica and IAGB, which was a fulfilling experience. The expo aimed to connect seniors with the broader community and promote cultural exchange through diverse programs and booths such as Entertainment, Food trucks, and Health Workshops. It showcased the importance of embracing our cultural roots while engaging with the wider community, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.
Qs.: What was your experience having participated in the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024?
Answer from Viral Dave, GuruKool Enrichment Center:
My students had a great time performing at the New England Senior Expo. They ranged from ages 4 to 14 and thoroughly enjoyed the event along with their family and friends. They danced to rhythmic Bollywood beats and we could clearly see the audience enjoying this cultural treat along with a variety of other activities and culinary delights that were planned for the day. It was a superbly organized event by IAGB and I look forward to being a part of it next year ! Kudos to the team for the amazing collaboration with the Town of Bllerica !
IAGB Community Spotlight
Jasmine Shah, founder, Aangikam Dance Academy
Jasmine Shah, the founder of Aangikam Dance Academy, has dedicated her life to promoting Indian culture through various dance styles in the New England area.
It all began in 1982 when Jasmine, a visionary and proficient dancer and theater artist, decided to create a platform where youngsters could learn about India’s culture through dances. This initiative led to the formation of Aangikam Dance Academy, which has grown from a handful of children to over 200 students at multiple locations in the New England area. Jasmine has remained true to her traditional beliefs, promoting Indian heritage through Bharat Natyam, Manipuri, Folk dances, and, due to popular demand, Bollywood dances have been added as well.
Jasmine’s illustrious list of alumni comprises of her lifelong supporters. She has been their guide and mentor, playing a significant role in shaping their future. Many of her students have gone on to start their own dance schools.
Jasmine is multitalented. She performs, directs, choreographs, and judges many dance competitions. She has organized many theme-based dance dramas that delve into Indian mythology, and both she and her students have choreographed and performed for not only IAGB but for various other organizations including ISW, IANH, GURJAR, VHP, UIA, and so on.
Beyond her creative endeavors, Jasmine has also organized numerous fundraisers for local community organizations such as Shishu Bharati, Satsang Center, Gurjar (India Earthquake relief fund), CRY Sankara Foundation, and many more.
Jean Shaheen, NH governor, nominated Jasmine for the New Hampshire Art Council as an art counselor, and she has been serving in this capacity for over 25 years. In 2016, India New England honored her for her contribution to the field of dance and dramas by presenting her with a lifetime achievement award.
Throughout the years, Jasmine has choreographed and produced many dance dramas, including Ramayana, Krishna Leela, Meerabai, Shakuntala, and “www.Millanium.Com”, to name a few.
Jasmine Shah has been a solid supporter of IAGB for over 2 decades, presenting timeless and innumerable dance performances during IAGB’s iconic events Republic Day and India Day year after year. She has always shown up with great vigor and enthusiasm cheering team IAGB’s continuous endeavor to raise the bar in quality and thoughtful, theme related performances.
This time around, Jasmine Shah stepped up in her support for IAGB and its educational charter. She was instrumental in enthralling the audience by preparing captivating dance presentations and narrations at the “Nritya-Kala, Dances of India” segment of IAGB’s Discover India Series at the Woburn Public Library. Attendees were fascinated by the intricate details of classical dance forms, the diverse array of costumes, and the meanings behind various gestures. Her lively discussions centered around various folk dances, her vibrant choreographies enabled her students to fill the hall with energy and passion for the art of dance! To quote the audiences, it was a delightful experience to learn and participate in Garba and Bhangra dance narrations. Thanks to Jasmine Shah’s brilliance in her art, and her undaunted passion for the art, Nritya Kala stole the show as the most popular presentation in the DIS series at the Woburn Public Library.
IAGB says “BRAVO” to the multi-talented, decorated Dance Guru Jasmine Shah, who operates out of passion to excel and love for her most loved art form of dance!
IAGB Events Recap
IAGB 5K Run/Walk
2 / 6 – Winter Coat Drive & Drop Off Q1
IAGB Seniors’ Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024
Seniors Expo & Cultural Expo 2024 Thank you note from the President
Our dearest Community at Large, the Town of Billerica and our wonderful Indian American community of Greater Boston,
I still remember when IAGB ideated and initiated this event amidst the peak of Covid, for Seniors 4 years ago which was led by the then President Sanjay Gowda and yours truly. It grew bigger & better with every passing year.
This past Sunday, I felt that I have come a full circle as IAGB as the proven trailblazer that it has always been, hosted a unique endeavor with the Town of Billerica with a mission as heartening as it could get: “working together to build a strong community”!!!
If I am not wrong, this is IAGB’s “first ever” collaboration with the mainstream to host an event!!!
New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024, in collaboration with the Town of Billerica, was envisioned as an event not only dedicated to the seniors in the community and beyond, but also to foster cultural exchange with the mainstream.
And that’s what we did, this past Sunday, May 19, 11 am – 4 pm.
An Expo that had:
- Entertainment: unique performances by local Indian dancers/dance groups.
- Food truck/vendors: Indian food and more!
- Booths providing a wealth of information designed to help senior citizens & aspiring seniors, their caregivers, and families.
- Health Workshops by experts.
- Booths offering engaging essence of India such as clothing, jewelry, accessories, henna tattoos, spices, easy ways of Indian cooking and so on.
- Booths with prepared foods, farms, artisans & crafters.
My heart is full as we celebrate the Roaring Success of the IAGB New England Seniors Expo & Cultural Exchange 2024, the first of its kind Expo attended by 34 vendors, 4 Health/Wellness Experts, 4 talented Artists, 5 Dance groups & Dance Experts and over 250 people!
It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.
So here’s a HEARTENING SHOUT OUT and a heart-felt DHANYAVAAD (Thank You) to:
We couldn’t have done it without you – we owe our success to you!
**THE TOWN OF BILLERICA
**JEAN BUSHNELL – DIRECTOR – BILLERICA COUNCIL ON AGEING
**ROBERT MAYNARD – ASSISTANT TOWN MANAGER – BILLERICA
**MIKE RILEY – SELECTBOARD MEMBER – BILLERICA
OUR GRAND SPONSOR!
UNITED HEALTH CARE
OUR FOOD PARTNER:
The Treasury: Indian & Greek Kitchen
OUR VENDORS!!!
- Anokh
- Vyasa Bros. Inc
- Interactive Indian Folk Art
- Science Cardinal
- eternalHealth
- Mayin Arts LLC
- Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter
- MindGym Initiative
- United Healthcare
- IAGB
- Indian Circle for Caring USA Inc. (ICC)
- Raji collections
- Billerica Council on Ageing
- Billerica Board of Health
- Imaginations Art & Craft Center
- Sutanuti Sajghor
- Indian Medical Association of New England
- AgeSpan MA SMP
- Minuteman Senior Services
- Traditional Threads by Nikita Gupta
- SD Real Estate
- New York Life Insurance
- Henna Art
- MealMantra / Bhalla homes
- Zashnncreations
- Rehab Health 360 LLC
- Life Care Center of Merrimack Valley
- Indo-American Grocery
- Off-Kendrik Theatre Group
- Vaisakhi Weaves
- KalpTree Financial Services
- FISCO
- Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line
- Billerica Community Pantry
—Our Rangoli experts Swati Athale & Dipa Agrawal for beautifying the Town Hall garden with festive art.
—Yoga Expert Geeta Vallecha for her Yoga and Pranayam (practice of breath regulation) session with all
—Nicole McGurin – Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter for the workshop on The Impact of Alzheimer’s in our Community
—Meditation Expert Dr. Bindu Vyas for her workshop on Ways of Meditation.
—Dr. Sarju Ganatra, MD,FACC, Cardiologist for the workshop on Best Practices to prevent Heart Disease.
OUR PERFORMANCE GROUPS WHO ENTERTAINED EVERYONE AT THE EXPO!
- Moumita Banerjee – Tarana School of Kathak for her dance group’s dances ‘Kathak meets Lavni’ and Jhumur (Santal) Folk Dance.
- Shikha Vashishtha’s foot tapping Flash Mob/Dance Along.
- Ekta Jain – Ekta Dance Academy for her group dances showing Festivities & Celebrations.
- Viral Dave – GuruKool Enrichment Center for their Bollywood Dance Medley – Rising RockStars.
- Swasti Bhargava – Swasti School of Dance for her exciting Grand Finale Flash Mob/Dance Along.
The first of its kind in the New England area, this Expo stands as a brilliant example of what can happen when we work together -so let’s continue advocating human values such as respect, acceptance, empathy, and love towards other human beings.
Let’s have an open mind to “give and take, mingle and mingled in ”, with the larger mainstream society we are living in at the current time.
Let this Expo be a testimony of how to stay rooted to our cultures of diverse regions with oneness in mind, embrace our surrounding cultures and work together to build a strong community!
Thank You Letter from the Town of Billerica
Dear Tanu,
On behalf of my colleague Robert Maynard and myself, I wish to congratulate the IAGB team for its novel and successful approach to community cohesion on May 19th. Working closely with the town you, Deepak Garg, Nilesh Agrawal and Manish Bhowmick exceled at your communications, cooperation and innovative thinking. We have no doubt that this is the start of an annual Senior Expo and Cultural Exchange!
Despite the rain, the cool temperature and overcast skies, we mobilized beyond these barriers to share with the Billerica community the willingness of the IAGB diaspora to reach out, connect and learn from each other. Communities are built from mutual respect and a search for ways to effectively engage collectively to strengthen ties and bond with pride and authenticity.
Thanks for reaching out to the town of Billerica to join forces in this endeavor. We thank you for the partnership and hope that you will seek us out as more creative opportunities arise for us to exchange stories, notes and cultural elements as citizens of the town.
Kind regards
Jean A. Bushnell
IAGB DIS – Discover India Series Woburn Library
India Unveiled by Alkesh Shah
Alkesh Shah delivered the inaugural presentation in the series, focusing on India’s rich culture and heritage. He shared unique insights that aren’t readily available online. Additionally, Alkeshji discussed cultural, architectural, and historical experiences accessible to all, along with theme-based travel tips. The audience left impressed, gaining a deeper understanding of India’s diversity and what to anticipate when exploring different regions.
Prachin Kala-Ancient Arts by Swati Athale
Swati Athale’s presentation introduced the ancient art of Warli, which employs geometric shapes to convey expressive symbolism. She then showcased the intricate designs and patterns of Madhubani painting. Following that, attendees participated in a hands-on workshop to create their own Madhubani paintings. The time flew by as attendees immersed in the Prachin Art of Madhubani, and the beautiful greeting cards they took home as souvenir will be cherished memories for a long time!
Nritya Kala - Dances of India by Jasmine Shah
Jasmine Shah’s captivating dance presentations enthralled the audience. Attendees were fascinated by the intricate details of classical dance forms, the diverse array of costumes, and the meanings behind various gestures. Following the classical dance demonstration, lively discussions centered around various folk dances. The energy and vibrant moves of the dancers filled the hall, making it a delightful experience to learn and participate in Garba and Bhangra. Undoubtedly, this became the most popular presentation in the series!
Sur Sangeet - Music of India by Deepali, Anish, Yogesh
The final presentation in our series featured a captivating ensemble performance by the trio of musicians: Deepali Khanzode, Anish Khanzode, and Yogesh Kurhale. The session commenced with an explanation of Hindustani and Carnatic music, covering fundamental aspects such as taal, lay, and tarana, as well as the correlation between ragas and the time of day. Anish then delivered a vocal performance in the raag ‘Yaman.’ Deepali followed by introducing the sitar, a mesmerizing string instrument, and showcased its brilliance. Accompanied by Yogesh Karale on the tabla, the performance reached its peak with an enthralling tabla and sitar jugalbandi, leaving the audience in awe.
IAGB Upcoming Events
INDIA ASSOCIATION OF GREATER BOSTON IN COLLABORATION WITH WOBURN PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENT WITH PRIDE DISCOVER INDIA
Sign up to join these sessions and learn about the beautiful country of INDIA!
The world’s largest democracy, the second largest population, the country that invented zero, the number system, and the largest English-speaking nation.
- May 2, 6 – 7 pm: “India Unveiled” – a journey through India’s Tourist Attractions, Diverse Architecture and Heritage Sites
- May 9, 6 – 7 pm: “Prachin Kala” – (Ancient Arts of India) – get to know about two ancient art forms – Warli Painting & Madhubani Painting
- May 16, 6 – 7 pm: “Nritya Kala” (Dances of India) – Classical Dances – Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi; Folk/Regional Dances – Garba, Bhangra, Ghoomar, Lavni, Jhumur
- May 23, 6 – 7 pm: “Sur Sangeet” (Classical Music of India) – Classical Vocal – Hindustani classical; Classical Instruments – Sitar & Tabla
IAGB Community Conversation
Biren Agarwala
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
The United States of America is a unique country, which has embraced talents from all over the world and created an environment for creativity and success. I felt proud as an immigrant American when I was accepted as a naturalized citizen with dignity and respect.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
Although an immigrant from a different part of the world, I can freely practice my culture and religion my own way. Every year I would gather with my friends dressed in my traditional outfit and worship Devi Durga in my own way and also participate in many traditional culture and religious ceremonies.Although I am an immigrant, I can maintain my cultural and religious identity here without any interruption.
3. What do you miss most about your home country?
Yet, I do miss my original homeland, specially, my relatives and childhood friends who had been part of my memories and upbringing. This has been a unique experience in my life.
Debabrata Biswas
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
When I moved from India to the US to live with my daughter in 2012, we were in a very distressed financial condition. My granddaughter, barely five went to school without wearing snow boots and snow jacket as we could not afford those for her. On Christmas Eve a gracious lady from Burlington senior center came to our doorstep with a huge bagful of Christmas gifts which included two pairs of snow boots and two warm winter jackets for our granddaughter. I still don’t know how she knew about our plight. From that day on I started to respect and love this country I reluctantly migrated to and felt a strong connection to it.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
To celebrate Bijoya Dashami, the last day of Durga pooja by exchanging greeting with family, friends and relatives and distribute homemade sweets to them.
3. What do you miss most about your home country?
I missed the street foods ok Kolkata, local vegetables and fish markets where I can buy fresh vegetables and a variety of small, live sweet water fish; my extended family and circle of friends and most of all the great “adda” involving intellectual discourse at the Calcutta Coffee House.
Jayasri Biswas
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
Ans: I remember the day when my daughter called 911 for her dad/ my husband for a pressing medical emergency. I was surprised to see an ambulance, 2 fire trucks and 2 police cars flashing red, blue & white lights, with a team of people ringing my doorbell within five minutes of the call, while the first responder was still on the phone with me giving instructions to my daughter about what to do. I had never felt that kind of reassurance and faith in my life. It invoked a great sense of belonging to the country.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
Ans: My favorite custom which I hold on to my heart very dearly is Durga Puja which is celebrated in a very different way here than it is in Kolkata.
While in Kolkata the festivities last almost a month, starting from Mahalaya to Bijaya Dashami and Lakshmi Puja, here in the US, it is celebrated over a chosen weekend, Friday to Sunday. I look forward to that time of the year here!
3. What do you miss most about your home country?
Ans: I miss the signature sweets of Kolkata – both at the well famed sweet shops as well as freshly made sweets at my neighborhood “Mishtir dokan”. I also miss the company of my childhood school friends and relatives. I treasure how they invite me over for delicious meals and greet me with great excitement every time I visit Kolkata.
Julie Chatterjee
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
Ans.: Yes when I was allowed to study Information Systems despite having a degree in English and having a liberal arts background. It opened up doors of opportunities for me and boosted my confidence. I got my first job in Cisco Systems as a Dev. Test Engineer and now work as a Delivery Head for multiple accounts in TCS. America gave me wings to fly.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
Ans.: My favorite custom and tradition that I hold on to dearly is Durga Puja. Although I’m agnostic, for me Durga Puja is a celebration of empowered woman. I love and respect empowered women. I dress up to the hilt and enjoy the days of celebration with passion!
3. What do you miss most about your home country?
Ans.: The street food from Kolkata and the street junk jewelry shopping. The prices on line are so high! So every time I visit India I go on a street food eating and shopping spree. I miss the streets of my homeland!
Madhuparna Sen
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
Ans.: When I attended People of Color and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion conferences here and understood the common issues that affect and bind so many in this country and the awareness that needs to be raised and worked on throughout the diaspora here to make this country more tolerant and inclusive for ourselves and our future generations.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
Ans.: Durga Puja celebrations with our Bengali community here which we very much look forward to celebrating with our friends here annually. It is our biggest festival of the year, and nothing comes closer to the grandness and nostalgia of the Durga Puja festivities here!
3. What do you miss most about your home country?
Ans.: I miss my parents, old friends and relatives left back home – they are all so far away! I often wish I could have more in-person time with them. I also miss the fresh food, fresh daily cooking and of course the special hospitality that is so typical to India.
Maitreyee Chakroborty
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
When I first moved to the US, I felt like a foreigner, an alien in a new planet. Until three months later when my very old Ford Pinto car gave up on me in the middle of a busy intersection. I was nervous and frantically tried to figure out what happened. A young man walked to me with a purposeful smile on his face and offered to help. He greeted me with folded hands saying ‘Namashkar.’ He made the engine start. I cannot forget the welcoming kindness in his eyes and I felt this rush of joy, the very first feeling of belonging to this beautiful nation.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
My favorite tradition is donning a sari and wearing a bindi. In the folds of the 6 yards I find my birthplace. Bindi ties me to my mom and aunts who taught me how to be confident in being me.
Smita Unnikrishnan
1. Can you share a memorable moment when you felt a strong sense of belonging in this country?
Ans.: A memorable moment of a sense of belonging was after I delivered my first son. The doctors and nurses were so caring and super friendly and that combined with seeing my son and my husband near me was a blessing. Knowing that this is the country my son was going to grow up in made me feel a sense of belonging.
2. What is your favorite custom/tradition that you hold on to even after living in this new country for long?
Ans: The custom that I follow to date is lighting a lamp in front of God every evening and praying. It’s very soothing and cleansing and just helps you wind up the day with appreciation.
3. What do you miss most about your home country?
Ans.: When I think of India, the first thing that comes to mind are my parents, immediate family and childhood friends. Basically, miss everything about India..our culture, diversity, food and the ever smiling people no matter what hardship they are going through.
IAGB Community Spotlight
Deepa has been IAGB’s rock solid support for a significant number of years, volunteering at every IAGB event. She is IAGB’s “décor expert”!!! She has always shown up in silence, yet with unparalleled commitment and excellence in stage decorations. She has always cheered for team IAGB at all not only our events, but at other events outside of IAGB upholding IAGB’s name.
IAGB says “Kudos” to a dedicated, conscientious and supportive leader like Deepa Agrawal, who operates out of commitment, passion and love for the community!
Deepa Agrawal is a highly regarded community leader in the New England area. She is praised for her significant accomplishments and motivates others with her leadership approach, which emphasizes commitment, enthusiasm, and foresight. Deepa’s strength lies in her vision and dedication to the education of the next generation to build a community feeling and have a long-lasting effect on the welfare of people.
Deepa is the Co-Chair of Baal Yuva Vibhag of Hindi Manch, a nonprofit organization, and one of the largest Hindi organizations in the US. In the last many years, Hindi Manch has influenced more than 10,000 established non-resident Indian families, organized over 120 cultural events with more than 3,500 performers, and has worked to educate the next generation and provide a platform to more than 500 children. She has been the coordinator for Baal Yuva Manch since 2018, demonstrating her commitment to using Hindi Manch’s programs to help young people
develop self-expression and confidence.
Deepa’s passion for education is evident in her work for Shishu Bharati school. As a current director, she taught Hindi to over 150 students and also served as a substitute teacher for cultural classes spanning Grades 1-7. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Deepa took on the crucial role of Student Volunteer Coordinator for the last 4 years. Her exceptional leadership and organizational skills were evident as she successfully managed and organized the activities of 400 student volunteers.
Additionally, Deepa currently serves as the President of Indian Americans for Burlington for the term 2023-2024, demonstrating organizational prowess and leadership skills. Deepa contributes to various events, from designing floats for 4th of July parades to participating in Burlington Day
and hosting Diwali cultural gatherings at Burlington Town common showcasing the rich Indian culture.
Beyond cultural endeavors, she dedicates her free time to artistic pursuits, running art classes for kids, and showcasing her work in esteemed venues. Her artistic flair extends to event decorations and planning. Deepa’s artistic prowess extends to designing and conducting a painting competition during the Republic Day event. She plays a pivotal role in stage design and is the backstage coordinator for various events, ensuring smooth execution.
Deepa Agrawal’s outstanding contributions were recognized as she was honored as one of the top ten India New England women of the year. The prestigious Gala, organized by Manju Seth and Upendra Mishra, celebrated Deepa’s remarkable achievements and leadership in the community.
Deepa holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from North Maharashtra University in India and initially worked as an IT professional at Aptech Computer Institute, Mumbai. Deepa is a longstanding resident of Burlington, where she resides with her husband, Nilesh Agrawal, and their two children, Ayush Agrawal and Akshara Agrawal. After moving to the USA, she developed an interest in Tax Consultancy and Accountancy, joining Tax consulting firm in,
Burlington MA,