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India Association of Minnesota
August 2026 Newsletter
53 Years Supporting the Indian Community
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Please click on it.
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IndiaFest 2026
By India Association of Minneota
“Experience India in a Day“ at IAM’s signature annual event,IndiaFest.
The event marks the celebration of Indian Independence Day, that falls on August 15th. The State of Minnesota recognizes this day as India Day. This event is an outdoor, free event, open for all.
This year, IndiaFest is of special importance to the Asian Indian community as it will be celebrated on August 15th. The 2026 IndiaFest theme is Weaves and Traditional Fabrics of India.
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IndiaFest Silent Auction is now live - ends August 15th!
Bid on exclusive experiences, travel packages, museum passes, orchestra tickets, gift cards, and much more, all while supporting the India Association of Minnesota and IndiaFest!
Winners can collect their prizes at the IAM Information Booth during IndiaFest.
Start bidding now: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/indiafest-2026-silent-auction
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IndiaFest 2026 Bingo
New this year!
India Association of Minnesota (IAM) has partnered with the Univeristy of Minnesota's Indian Student Association (ISA) to play IndiaFest Bingo!
Be sure to pick up a bingo card at the ISA Booth Then visit the booths on the bingo cards and get them stamped. Return them to the ISA for a chance to win raffle prizes. Raffle drawings at 12, 3, 5 & 6pm.
Join the fun! (Sample card only at right)
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To Volunteer - Sign up by August 6th!
IndiaFest cannot happen without all the wonderful volunteers who participate each year.
Please join us as a volunteer by scanning the QR code above clicking on this link.
https://iamn.org/volunteer-campaign/indiafest-2026/
| | IAM Participating in the Community | | |
Odisha Society of the Americas (OSA)
On July 3rd, IAM President Mangala Acharya and VP Sunitha Pillai attended the opening of the 57th Odisha Society of the Americas (OSA) Annual Convention at the DoubleTree Hotel in Minneapolis! This national gathering celebrated rich Odia heritage under the theme "Milana Taranga – Tides of Harmony."
Congratulations to the local host chapter for showcasing the very best of our community's hospitality!
www.odishasociety.org
| | Government Relations & Community Engagement | |
2026 is an Election Year!
Primary
Vote by mail or in person
June 26 through August 10
What's on the Election Day ballot in 2026?
All voters will have these races on their general election ballot:
- U.S. Senator - U.S. Representative - Governor & Lt. Governor
- Secretary of State - State Auditor - Attorney General
- State Senator - State Representative - Judicial Seats
Voters may have one or more of these races on their ballot:
- County Officials - City Officers - School Board Members
- Township Officers - Local ballot questions
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Election Calendar
Vote by mail or in person - June 26 through August 10 for the Primary
Primary Election - August 11, 2026
Vote by mail or in person - September 18 through November 2, 2026
Election Day - November 3, 2026
For more information https://www.sos.mn.gov/election-administration-campaigns/elections-calendar/
India Association of Minnesota is non-political.
IAM will inform but does not endorse any candidates.
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Indian American Candidates
Dr. Krishnan Subrahmanian is running for the Minnesota Senate SD49. For more information https://krishforsenate.com/
India Association of Minnesota requests that Indian candidates submit a picture, office running for and link to website for publication in this newsletter. Email to info@iamn.org.
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Community Town Hall on Immigration Policy Changes
The India Association of Minnesota (IAM) Government Relations Committee hosted the Immigration Policy Changes Community Forum on July 16, 2026. The webinar brought together immigration attorneys, public officials, and community members to discuss recent U.S. immigration policy changes. Moderated by Dr. Krish Subrahmanian, the panel featured Representative Sandra Feist, Marc Prokosch, and George Maxwell. Speakers provided updates on immigration enforcement, employment-based visas, and compliance requirements. The discussion also covered travel restrictions, visa processing, and international student policies. Panelists explained how evolving regulations may affect immigrants, students, professionals, employers, and families. Participants engaged in an interactive question-and-answer session, receiving practical guidance on their concerns. The forum emphasized the importance of staying informed and seeking reliable legal advice as immigration policies continue to evolve. IAM reaffirmed its commitment to educating and supporting the community through timely informational programs. The organization also expressed its gratitude to the panelists for sharing their expertise and serving the community.
Stay connected with IAM for future GRC programs, educational forums, and community events. Together, we continue building a stronger and better-informed community.
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IAM Membership
India Association of Minnesota invites you to become a sustaining member of the organization. As the Indian population in Minnesota increases, it is more important than ever that the community be involved in the activities of IAM as it represents our common interests. To become a member https://iamn.org/memberships/
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Upcoming IAM Calendar of Events
Event/Date/Venue
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IndiaFest, August 15, 2026, Minnesota State Capitol Grounds.
- Non-Violence Day - October 2, 2026, Minnesota History Center
- Health Awareness Charity Event - October 12, 2026, TBD
- GBM and Member Appreciation - November, TBD
Watch for coming events in future newsletters, on Facebook and the IAM website www.iamn.org.
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Akshaya Patra Minnesota - Music for Meals 2026
Akshaya Patra Minnesota chapter is inviting you to An Evening That Makes a Difference.
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Eisenhower Community Center, Hopkins, MN
Register today!
Registration link : https://pro.gofundme.com/event/e826130
Join for an unforgettable evening of live music, delicious food, wonderful company, and a shared purpose as we come together to support
The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s mission of providing nutritious school meals to children.
Every ticket helps nourish young minds, keep children in school, and create brighter futures.
Enjoy:
* Live musical performances
* Delicious dinner
* Great company
* A meaningful cause
A $20 donation will feed a child during the whole school year. Akshaya Patra runs the world’s largest midday meal program, nourishing 2.5 million children every day.
Bring your family, friends, and colleagues, and make this a memorable evening while changing lives—one meal at a time.
Together, let’s turn music into meals and hope into brighter futures.
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India Chambeer of Commerce Minnesota (ICOCMN)
Smart Tax Strategies: Income, Credits & Planning Essentials
Taxes don’t have to be reactive or confusing. Join us for Smart Tax Strategies: Income, Credits & Planning Essentials, an interactive workshop designed to help you understand how the tax code actually works — and how to use it strategically. Led by Kalpana Gurram, EA, CAA, CTC, CTP
Fri, Aug 07 | Maple Grove Community Center
Registration Form | ICOCMN
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Join the India Chamber of Commerce Minnesota for our annual Summer Soirée — a relaxed evening of great drinks, good food, and even better company.
Sip handcrafted cocktails from one of Minneapolis's most celebrated craft distilleries containing one of the largest craft spirits portfolios in the world, enjoy dinner, and socialize with fellow business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals from across our community. Whether you're reconnecting with familiar faces or making new ones, it's the perfect setting to unwind and toast to the season together.
This event is open to both members and non-members. We look forward to seeing you there.
Date: Aug 22, 2026
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Place: Norseman Distillery, 451 Taft St NE
Minneapolis, MN 55413
Register: Summer Cocktail Social 2026
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Indian Music Society of Minnesota (IMSOM)
IMSOM announces its Fall 2026 Season
August 22, 7:00PM
Hindustani Sitar/Surbahar Recital by Sugato Nag & Co
September 12, 7:00PM
Hindustani Santoor and Hammered Dulcimer Duet by Kunal Gunjal and Max ZT & Co
October 3, 7:00PM
Carnatic Vocal Duet by Sai Kiran and Sai Nivedita (Sai Sisters) & Co
October 24, 7:00PM
Carnatic Flute Recital by J. A. Jayanth & Co
https://www.imsom.org/
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Audition Announcement
for Choreographers’ Evening 2026
The Walker Art Center and guest curator Ashwini Ramaswamy are seeking Minnesota dance-makers working in all forms to present their work as part of Choreographers’ Evening on Saturday, November 21, 2026.
Now celebrating its 54th year, this annual dance showcase celebrates Minnesota’s vibrant and diverse dance community with powerful performances by a roster of local choreographers and movement artists. This year’s program is curated by performer and dance-maker Ashwini Ramaswamy.
For more information: Click Here
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Sangeetha Kannada Koota
For the past 50 years, Sangeetha Kannada Koota has been more than an organization it has been a home for the Kannada community in Minnesota. Through the celebration and preservation of Kannada language, literature, music, arts, traditions, and values, SKK has brought generations of families together in friendship, pride, and shared heritage.
What began as a small gathering of Kannada families has grown into one of the oldest and most vibrant Kannada organizations in North America, made possible by the vision of our founders, the dedication of countless volunteers, and the continued support of members and well-wishers over the years.
As we celebrate this historic Golden Jubilee, we warmly invite you, your family, and your friends to join us in honoring this remarkable journey and in celebrating the spirit of our community.
The celebration will feature:
Cultural performances by renowned artists
Recognition of SKK founders and community leaders
Literary and musical presentations
A showcase of Karnataka’s rich heritage
Opportunities for fellowship and connection as we celebrate 50 years of shared excellence
www.kannadamn.org
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Katha Dance Theatre (KDT)
Katha Dance Theatre is excited to open enrollment for another fun and fulfilling semester of Kathak classes in St. Louis Park! Our classes are open to dancers of all abilities and ages (6 and above).
Kathak is so much more than a dance style. It promotes artistic expression and creativity; increases athleticism, flexibility, and agility, positively impacting physical and mental health; establishes strong mind-body connections and coordination; and provides important cultural context and knowledge. Our rigorous curriculum encourages self-expression and creativity in the classroom while providing high-quality, authentic Kathak education of the Lucknow tradition.
The semester begins on September 12!
New to KDT? Our classes for new beginners are as follows:
Children (ages 6-10):
Saturdays, 9 - 9:45 am CT
Youth/Adult (ages 11+):
Saturdays, 3:30 - 4:45 pm CT
Deadline: Enroll by September 8. Enroll here. And save the date for our performance of Rang-E-Ishq - Colors of Love at the O'Shaughnessy at St. Kate's on Oct. 10-11.
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South Asian Arts and Theatre House (SAATH) proudly presents
Made in India
A powerful new production exploring identity, family, and belonging.
(SAATH) is thrilled to announce its newest original production, Made in India.
Written by Kristen Marx and directed by Anjali Gopal (@anjgopal) and Madhu Bangalore
(@madhubangalore), Made in India is a powerful new original production that follows the
journey of an Indian-born transracial adoptee as she navigates identity, belonging, and the search for her roots. Spanning childhood through adulthood, the story explores the complexities of race, culture, family, and memory, asking what it means to reconnect with a heritage that feels both deeply familiar and just out of reach.
Blending theater, dance, puppetry, and movement, Made in India brings to life an intimate and deeply human story about loss, resilience, curiosity, and self-discovery. At its heart, the production celebrates the many ways we create family and the universal desire to understand where we come from and who we are.
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Venue: The Cowles Center for Dance & the Performing Arts
528 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Performance Dates: Fri, August 21 – 7 PM
Sat, August 22 – 7 PM
Sun, August 23 – 2:30 PM
Wed, August 26 – 7 PM
Fri, August 28 – 7 PM
Sat, August 29 – 7 PM
Tickets are available at https://www.saathmn.org/events/made-in-india.
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The Shape of Home brings together Odissi and Indian folk movement, Rabindranath Tagore’s songs, storytelling, and my own experience of immigration. In a time when many immigrant neighbors are living with scrutiny and uncertainty, the piece asks what we carry with us, what helps us remain whole, and how welcome can become an action. It makes room not only for fear, but also for beauty, humor, rhythm, rain, spring, and hope.
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The Great Minnesota Get-together
August 27 - September 7, 2026
The Minnesota State Fair marks the end-of-summer, a new school year starting and the beautiful Minnesota fall coming soon. Roughly 2 million attend annually to what is voted the best fair in the country. Things to interest everyone and don't forget the food on a stick.! The Minnesota State Fair is always 12 days ending Labor Day. 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. (9 p.m. on Labor Day).
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Cultural Destinations
Bringing the World to the State Fair
This year the Cultural Destinations Boutique is excited to be in the International Bazaar all 12 days of the Fair.
Buy. Share. Enjoy - products from 15 small cultural businesses (and 11 cultures) as they learn both to access one of the largest markets in the country. Featuring sauces, spices, coffee/tea, fashion accessories, jewelry, children's books, art, stationery and more.
You Buy. We Grow ..
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Here are details and a chance to win tickets to the State Fair every week beginning in August.
To enter, sign up at https://www.facebook.com/share/1cGMxeLhKY/ and post what you like about the September 6th program - an artist or exhibit and we will draw winners from those that post.
Website - Many Rhythms. One Celebration: The World Coming Together at the Minnesota State Fair - Cultural Destinations For more information click on the QR code.
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SAPHAL 2026 - Standing Out in a Transforming World
AI is reshaping every industry. The question isn't whether it affects you - it's whether you're ready to lead through it. Standing Out in a Transforming World is designed for South Asian professional women who refuse to be left behind.
September 12, 2026
This afternoon will bring you:
✦ Expert insight on digital innovation, AI and the future of work
✦ A professional branding workshop to help you articulate your value
✦ Connection with a community of accomplished women who get it
https://www.sawnmn.org/
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To register Click Here
For more information contact Sayali@sewa-aifw.org
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SEWA-AIFW & University of Minnesota
The Department of Psychology at the University of Minnesota is partnering with SEWA-AIFW on a research study examining financial stress and financial well-being among South Asian older adults.
Participants do not need to be experiencing financial stress currently. We are interested in hearing about their experiences with financial challenges, concerns, or well-being at any point in their lives, as these perspectives are valuable to the research.
We are currently looking to speak with South Asian seniors (Pakistani, Nepali, Sri Lankan, Indian, Bhutanese, Tibetan, Bangladeshi, Afghani, and others) aged 65 and older who may be willing to participate in a confidential interview and share their experiences. Their perspectives will help researchers better understand the unique financial challenges and strengths within South Asian communities and contribute to future programs and resources that support older adults.
As a token of appreciation, participants will receive a $40 gift card for their time. The study has received ethical approval from the University of Minnesota.
This study will only be successful with support from trusted community members like you, and I truly appreciate any assistance you can provide.
South Asian | SEWA-AIFW | Minneapolis
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Theater Mu Auditions
Theater Mu is auditioning for the upcoming production Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts written by Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay and directed by Mu artistic director Fran de Leon.
What is being offered and when is the audition?
- Non-union actors at $300/week. All roles are local contracts.
- Auditions: Aug 3 from 6-10 pm CT (hourlong group slots) ft. a movement/fight call
Who can apply?
- Looking for a variety of people with no previous acting experience required.
- All abilities, body types, ages, backgrounds and heritage welcome to apply
- Martial arts, stage combat, or dance movement ability is a plus, but any necessary training will be provided
Find out more including how to apply: https://www.theatermu.org/news/2026/7/6/seeking-ensemble-for-kfz-girl-scouts
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Shakun Maheshwari invites you to her solo exhibition
Ways of Life: Rooted in Tradition.
Venue: White Bear Center for the Arts
Dates: August 1–September 17, 2026
For the past year, Shakun immersed herself in exploring traditional Indian folk and tribal art forms from different regions of India. What began as research grew into a series of new artworks, discoveries, and creative challenges.
The exhibition brings together works inspired by Warli, Gond, Madhubani, Kolam, Mandana, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Phad, and Lippan traditions, while reflecting her own artistic journey and
interpretation.
You are invited to attend the Opening Reception and Artist Talk on August 13, 2026, and experience these beautiful traditions.
http://www.shakuntaladesign.com
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Minnesota Astronaut to make his firt trip to the International Space Station
"An astronaut from Minneapolis will make his first trip to the International Space Station.
Anil Menon plans to be on board the space station for eight months. While there, he’ll work on a range of technology and medical research projects, including production of semiconductor crystals and in-space ultrasound medical monitoring.
Before his astronaut career, Menon grew up in Minneapolis and later trained as a physician. He has worked as a flight surgeon for NASA and SpaceX; this will be his first space flight."
To read entire article: Minnesota astronaut Anil Menon heads to International Space Station | MPR News
To read 2025 announcement article Click Here
To read more about Anil Menon Click Here
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