By Rajesh Khare
WORCESTER, MA — The India Society of Worcester (ISW) brought the spirit of India to life at the 37th annual India Day and 62nd anniversary celebration, held at the DCU Center.
Drawing attendees from across Massachusetts and the wider New England region, the event blended rich cultural heritage with a strong focus on community connection and service.
The celebration opened with an electrifying Dhol Tasha Lezim performance by the ISW Symphony initiative, setting a high-energy tone that carried throughout the day. Audiences were treated to a diverse cultural lineup, including Kerala’s Chenda Melam, vibrant contemporary dances, a Mahabharata-themed production, and a heartfelt performance by the Humrahee senior group. The festivities culminated in a showstopping Lavani dance from Maharashtra, which had the audience on its feet.
“It was wonderful to see so many people come together to enjoy music, dance, and food. The energy and enthusiasm in the room made the event truly special,” said Kamlesh Khilnani, India Day Chair.
Co-Chair Suchitra Shinde added, “India Day brings our community together year after year. It is a celebration of culture and a way to connect generations.”
Sarita Deshpande, Chair of ISW Symphony, reflected on the day’s performances: “I loved seeing families and children participate in the event. The joy on stage and in the audience was unforgettable.”
Cultural Co-Chair Komal Tanna emphasized the diversity of the program: “From traditional music and dance to modern interpretations and visual arts, there was truly something for everyone.”
Beyond performances, the day highlighted ISW’s strong commitment to community service. The ISW Health Stop offered free health screenings, while the India Youth Group (IYG) ran popular volunteer-led booths offering popcorn, cotton candy, and mehendi. Informational booths showcased the society’s various initiatives, including the Language and Cultural School, Humrahee, and the Crisis Support Network.
Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in career development activities. Workshops organized by Women Empowering Women (WEW) and the Professional and Entrepreneurial Network (PEN) featured resume reviews, mock interviews, and free professional headshots.
ISW President Jagan Srinivasan summed up the event: “India Day 2025 showed the strength and spirit of our community. It was inspiring to see so many generations come together to celebrate our heritage.”
From vibrant dance and music to hands-on workshops and public service, India Day 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the enduring unity and cultural richness of the Indian-American community in Massachusetts.
Photos: Arjun Thube, Parnitha Karapakula, Sahith Madadi, and other volunteers.
