Event Recaps

“Pehnawa – Weaves of India”

A Cultural Tapestry comes alive in Billerica

On one unforgettable evening, the town of Billerica transformed into a living canvas of Indian heritage. Through “Pehnawa – Weaves of India,” IAGB didn’t just host an event, we sparked a movement of cultural pride, storytelling, and timeless artistry.

Presented under the banner of IAGB’s Discover India Series, Pehnawa was more than a celebration of Indian textiles. It was a tribute – to the looms that have sung for centuries, to the artisans whose hands hold ancestral wisdom, and to the fierce, graceful women who became carriers of that legacy on stage.

Each saree wasn’t just worn – it was embodied!

Our radiant flagbearers – Anju, Anupama, Bhairavi, Deepa, Jayshree, Jyoti, Minal, Monika, Nirmala, Prajakta, Shilpa, Sonali, Sudha, Sulekha, Surabhi, and Vaijayanti, brought centuries of culture into the spotlight. They didn’t just walk the stage; they carried the dignity of weavers, the rhythm of regions, and the spirit of generations. Through them, Paithani whispered. Chikankari sang. Banarasi shimmered.

We are immensely grateful to the Billerica Public Library for once again opening its doors and its heart, to culture and community. Their continued partnership allows us to create immersive experiences that educate, inspire, and unite.

In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, Pehnawa was a poignant reminder: handwoven fabrics are not garments – they are living stories. They are poems in thread. They are resistance, resilience, and remembrance, all at once.

Thank you for making Pehnawa, Weaves of India a night to remember.

Stay connected for more from the Discover India Series.

Until then, let the threads of tradition keep us beautifully bound.

A Thank You Note from Tanu Phoenix, President – IAGB

On June 22nd, Ekta Jain’s Ekta Dance Academy (EDA) marked a phenomenal milestone—10 years of dance, dedication, and cultural brilliance, with a spectacular celebration titled “Dus Ka Dam” (Ten Steps) at Keefe Tech Auditorium in Framingham. The afternoon through evening was filled with mesmerizing performances, heartfelt reflections, and inspiring guest appearances, celebrating a decade of empowering our community through the transformative power of dance.

What a dazzling journey it has been – 10 bold steps of nurturing talent, spreading joy, and keeping the flame of Indian culture alive in New England. It was an honor to be felicitated by EDA and to receive recognition on behalf of IAGB for our continued partnership and shared commitment to community enrichment.

Ekta, your passion, discipline, and artistic leadership have touched countless young lives and families. You have built more than just a dance academy, you have created a movement of self-expression, cultural pride, and connection.

On behalf of IAGB, we wish you and Ekta Dance Academy many more years of rhythm, grace, and excellence. Congratulations on 10 glorious years & here’s to the next promising chapter!
With admiration and gratitude,

Tanu Phoenix
President, IAGB

What a night to remember at Fenway Park!!!

On July 8th, we witnessed something truly special — as 30,169 fans filled Fenway Park for the Red Sox vs. Colorado Rockies game, the stadium came alive with energy, culture, and the unmistakable pride of the Indian American community. Together, we created a celebration that beautifully blended tradition, sportsmanship, and unity.

heartfelt thank you to Team Red Sox – especially Travis Pollio, Hannah Gailey, and Nicholas Duarte, for their unwavering trust, support, and seamless partnership in bringing the Red Sox–IAGB India Celebration to life. Their friendship and collaboration made it possible for us to share our heritage on one of the most iconic stages in sports.

A special bow of gratitude to Mr. Sushil Tuli, a decorated professional and esteemed community leader, for throwing the ceremonial first pitch with such style, humility, and grace. Your presence elevated the evening.

Kudos to our incredible performers and cultural trailblazers, led by the extraordinary Dance Enthusiasts and Gurus Shikha Vashishtha, Preethi Ramesh, Nivedita Chakraborty, and Purnima Thakre. Your vibrant showcase of India’s North, South, East, and West was not only mesmerizing but also a powerful reflection of our collective identity and diversity. Truly, a notch above!

To my phenomenal Team IAGB – their tireless dedication, passion, and ability to deliver with excellence never ceases to amaze me. Team, you embody what it means to lead with heart and purpose.

And how can we forget our adorable playball stars, Adrija Nath & Andrew Ronit Antony, whose joyful and confident “Play Ball!” officially kicked off the game and lit up the crowd!

And the cherry on top? The Red Sox won 10–2 against the Colorado Rockies! We like to think the enthusiastic cheers and goodwill from the Indian American community brought some lucky energy to the park. 😉

But beyond the celebration, this event stands as a powerful testament to IAGB’s unwavering mission – to be a unifying force between the Indian American community, the broader Asian community, and the mainstream. Through events like these, we continue our relentless endeavor to build bridges, foster inclusion, and work together toward a stronger, more connected community.

Until the official photo album is released, please enjoy this sneak peek of priceless moments and video highlights from this unforgettable evening.

With immense gratitude,
Tanu Phoenix
President, IAGB