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India Association of Minnesota
July 2025 Newsletter
52 Years Supporting the Indian Community
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To our Newsletter Readers: If you do not see our sponsor's logos, you have not reached the end of the newsletter. Immediately below the last article on the left side, you will see "View entire message".
Please click on it.
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We are India Association of Minnesota
A non-profit organization that has existed for over five decades of community service since its inception in 1973. India Association of Minnesota (IAM) aims to build a strong and cohesive community of over 50,000+ strong Asian Indians in the state of Minnesota.
Through its three-pronged mission of Culture, Charity and Connections, IAM seeks to build bridges of understanding between the Asian Indians and society at large within the state and the country. We are a non-religious, non-political organization, whose primary goal is to serve the Asian Indian community across its diversities in the state of Minnesota.
As our goal to serve the entire community, we do not side on the basis of religion or official positions on issues unfolding in India or elsewhere. Our emphasis is to bring people and groups together, empowering their diverse voices and backgrounds.
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IndiaFest by India Association of Minnesota is a signature event held each year in August. It showcases the richness of the Indian culture though dance, music, cuisine, regional displays and a bazaar with beautiful clothing, jewelry and other Indian merchandise.
The entire upper and lower mall of the State Capitol Grounds in downtown St Paul is transformed into a mini-India, with over a hundred booths showcasing scores of non-profit organizations associated with India, that work in the state of MN.
The huge cultural stage on the grounds comes alive with a variety of cultural performances all day. The finale to the day long festivities is Bollywood Night from 6:00-9:00 pm. The upper mall becomes an open dance floor with either a DJ belting out popular Bollywood songs or an established Bollywood band performing songs for the crowd.
IndiaFest culminates at 9pm.
IAM is grateful to the Minnesota State Capitol and the City of St Paul for their support over the last nearly two decades of IndiaFest, allowing the festival to grow over the years, bringing approximately 25,000 visitors to the event.
The IAM Team is excited to make IndiaFest 2025 the biggest ever with your support!
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🎓 Calling All 2025 High School Grads! 🎓
Are you a changemaker, artist, athlete, academic star, or young entrepreneur?
IAM is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Student Achievement Awards to be presented at IndiaFest on August 16, 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol Grounds!
⏳ Deadline: Friday, July 11th, 2025
Apply now: https://iamn.org/student-award-form/ or scan the QR code in the flyer.
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Volunteer for IndiaFest
IndiaFest cannot happen without all the wonderful volunteers who participate every year.
Volunteer Signup Here or click on the QR code in the flyer.
| | Recent Events Sponsored by IAM | | |
Consular Camp
By India Association of Minnesota
As a continuing service for the Indian community, India Association of Minnesota organized and sponsored a Consular Camp on Saturday, June 14, 2025. The event was held in the community room at the Normandale Lutheran Church in Edina, MN.
IAM brought the officials from the Chicago Consulate to the Twin Cities where 260 Minnesotans availed themselves of on-site Consular Services as well as VFS Services.
First year IAM Board Member, Mandulika Gaur skillfully coordinated and led the event. President Srividya Vaidyanahan and Analabha Dutta worked behind the scenes on the run up to June 14th, answering the many questions that came in and helping with logistics. On the day of the event, many IAM board members were on hand to help. They couldn't be missed in their blue IAM t-shirts.
Events like the Consular Camp can't happen without volunteers. We are thankful for the volunteers from our partners: TCTA, SEWA-AIFW, SILC, TEAM and MATA.
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IAM thanks the sponsors who made the Consular Camp possible: India Spice House, LifeMap Wealth Advisors, Tanishq USA, Vaz+Harwood Team and our notary Suba Ram.
Historical note. IAM has been organizing Consular Camps since 2005 when the first one was held at the Landmark Center as part of India Day. 2006 IAM President Ramesh Muniswamy was one of the organizers for the first camp and attended this year for VFS services.
Let us know your thoughts on this IAM event https://forms.gle/vjwnMSxGrtNTXCgr7
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Safety Forum
After several safety issues and racial situations faced by the Asian Indian community in the Twin Cities, IAM initiated conversations with law enforcement from the Edina, Maple Grove and Minnetonka Police Departments, co-sponsoring a safety forum, which would be an educational and interactive session, open for all community members.
After several planning meetings, the collaborative session between IAM and the law enforcement professionals from Edina and Minnetonka PD brought up several real life scenarios that our community could face in their day-to-day life, as well as solutions on how to deal with them without letting them escalate out of proportion.
The session, held on June 2nd at the Ridgedale Library, saw a healthy participation from community members.
IAM, in its continuing service to the community, is planning to have similar interactive sessions in the future and will be collaborating with the Edina PD.
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International Yoga Day
By India Association of Minnesota
Sangeetha Vinayaka, a certified Hatha and Ashtanga yoga instructor with Yoga Alliance USA, conducted an hour long virtual yoga session for IAM from Bangalore on International Yoga Day, Saturday, June 21st.
She walked the attendees through a series of asanas meant to help stretch, strengthen and revitalize the body and mind. She started with gentle stretches to get warmed up, through progressively more challenging asanas, into pranayama, and ending with a 3 minute relaxation with Shavasana.
She was very encouraging, engaging and educational, explaining the importance of each asana, and the correct way to do every single pose. Twenty seven intrepid community members signed up for the early morning virtual yoga session.
| | IAM Participating the Community | | |
Flint Hills Family Festival
The Flint Hills Family Festival in Saint Paul, Minnesota had a fantastic turnout, especially at the IAM booth.
Teachers showed great interest in learning more about India, recognizing how it could help them guide their students with a deeper understanding of Indian culture and traditions. Visitors at the booth expressed curiosity about the geographic expanse and diversity of India.
Families enjoyed some friendly competition at the carrom boards and expressed surprise at how much fun they had playing it. Children had a wonderful time coloring diyas and mandalas, engaging with symbols that hold rich cultural significance. Diyas, representing light and positivity, provided a great introduction to Diwali and its traditions, while mandalas encouraged artistic expression and mindfulness.
A big shout out to St Paul Mayor Melvin Carter for stopping by at the IAM booth with his daughter and engaging with our members.
In all it was a very well organized event with great participation from young kids as well as parents and grandparents.
All visitors were encouraged to make a note of our biggest celebration India Fest on August 16th.
IAM"S booth was manned by President Srividya Vaidyanathan, VP Mangala Acharya, along with board members Reena Raichur, Aditi Velankar and Anurag Saurabh. They had as much fun as the kids.
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Twin Cities West Metro Asian Fair
India Association of Minnesota participated in the third annual Twin Cities West Metro Asian Fair on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Asia's rich culture was showcased at fifteen booths of Asian ethnic groups, performances, cultural displays and delectable Asian cuisine. New in 2025 was a parade. Asian Fair cultural booths line the sides of the where the audience gathers to watch the performances on the Hilde stage. Rashmi Jindani volunteered to decorate the Asian Fair Indian booth. The celebration brings together people of all backgrounds and ages.
Over 12,000 people attended this event that has grown each year. The IAM booth had a constant flow of visitors throughout the day. The IAM team was led by Sunitha Pillai with IAM members Madhulika Gaur, Anokhi Shah, Reena Raichur, Manjula Ramen, Alice Northrup and Rishi Raichur interacting with attendees at various times during the day. Many organizations participated in this year's fair.
The fair organizers have made a commitment to sustainability with a goal of low waste. Volunteers were at all waste bins to help the attendees decide what was recyclable, compostable or rubbish.
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Science of Spirituality (SOS)
The Minnesota chapter of Science Of Spirituality celebrated its 10th anniversary on May 25th, 2025 at their location in Columbia Heights. The event was beautifully conducted, with several leaders of the community sharing their thoughts about meditation, spirituality and the importance of this organization.
Among the dignitaries were 3rd time Mayor of Columbia Heights - Amada Marquez Simula; Jalue Dorje - identified as the eighth reincarnation of Terchen Taksham Rinpoche, a lama, by the Dalai Lama himself; Arvind Naik - the head of the Minnesota chapter of SoS; Dr. Sane - one of the founders of the chapter and our very own Srividya Vaidyanathan. VP Mangala Acharya and Ram Gada were also in attendance from India Association of Minnesota.
| | Join India Association of Minnesota | | |
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.
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Upcoming IAM Calendar of Events
Event/Date/Venue
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IndiaFest - August 16th, Minnesota State Capitol Grounds
- Non-Violence Day - October 4th, TBD
- Cancer Awareness Event - November 07th, TBD
- Dhanyawaad - December 6th, TBD
Watch for coming events in future newsletters, on Facebook and the IAM website www.iamn.org.
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Honoring Leaders Who Served the Indian Community
On Saturday, June 14, 2025, Minnesotans again woke up to news of the unthinkable.
Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and State Senator John Hoffman have been frequent participants in India Association of Minnesota events, appearing for many years at IndiaFest and as guests at Connect India as well as other events throughout the community. Always respectful of Asian Indian customs, Rep Hortman dressed in colors reflecting the spirit of IndiaFest when attending. In 2024, she was our Guest of Honor for the flag-hoisting ceremonies during IndiaFest.
The Indian community has always been able to rely on their support. Speaker Emerita Hortman was a supporter of our community, approachable, responsive and engaged. She would take the time to listen, understand and respect varied opinions. We, at IAM are deeply saddened to have lost a strong legislative leader and a compassionate advocate, as well as her husband Mark and Gilbert, her beloved dog.
Senator Hoffman has been a longtime friend and steadfast supporter of the Indian community and IAM. He has been a fierce advocate for the needs of the community and always a champion of the people of Minnesota. We are grateful he and his wife, Yvette survived the horrific events of that June early morning.
We will not forget their service to the Indian Community as well as all of Minnesota.
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Lakeville student awarded for her science project
Lakeville student Mitra Suriyanarayanan, who attends Scott Highlands Middle School, was awarded for her project investigating how music influences children with autism at the 88th annual Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair (SSEF) on March 28 in St. Paul, organized by the Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS). Over 400 middle and high school students from across Minnesota competed in the state science fair.
Suriyanarayanan’s project, ‘Musical Minds: How Music Shapes the Task Performance and Emotional Behavior of Children with Autism?’ won the first place 3M Science Applied to Life Award and a Minnesota Academy of Science Silver Award.
“The State Science Fair highlights Minnesota students who are exploring fascinating questions and applying science and engineering practices to address challenges in their communities,” said Kristen Barry, the MAS Executive Director. “I was truly impressed and inspired by their innovation and expertise and it’s clear our judges felt the same way.”
Over 40 companies and organizations gave students awards valued at more than $20,000. Visit mnmas.org/2025-ssef-awards to see the full list of award winners.
To read original article Click Here
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You are invited to an in- person gathering with Sandhya Gupta, 2007 IAM President and founder, along with her husband Sarit Sharma of Aavishkaar. Sandhya will speak about the current challenges & accomplishments.
Re-Imaging STEM Education: Aavishkaar's core belief is that evidence backed content that is rigorous and relevant can fundamentally transform the classroom experience for the child. Aavishkaar's mission is to enable, equip and empower educators and students to rekindle their creativity, curiosity and critical thinking in Math and Science.
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Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Time: 6:30 - 9:00 pm
Venue: Bay Leaf Indian Cuisine
1260 Town Centre Drive, Eagan, MN
$80.00 per person ($45.00 tax deductible)
For dinner & fundraiser, mail checks to Aavishkaar USA,
c/o Karen Moore, 1350 Rosemary Ct, Hastings MN 55033. Please include the number of people attending and their names.
If not attending and you want to make a contribution to support the education and careers of youth and women in under served areas of India, please click on the QR Code or send a check to the above address.
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The Aavishkaar USA logo includes the Hindi and English languages, plus the colors of the Indian and US flags. This reflects Aavishkaar's collaborative work in ensuring eh well-being and future success of your and women currently in need.
In English, Aavishkaar means "invention". Aavishkaar is about better ways to reach and educate underserved children and women in India.
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Bhairavi Creations
Bhairavi Creations is dedicated to raising funds for causes supporting
stray dogs and blind children and empowering women.
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Hindu Society of Minnesota (HSMN)
HSMN invites you to the annual Cultural Heritage Day on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
www.hsmn.org
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India Philanthropy Alliance
The 2025 IPA Youth Essay Competition is Now Open!
Are you passionate about changing the world for the better? This is your chance! Join the IPA Youth Essay Competition and shine a light on an issue that is important to you. This is a great opportunity to find your voice, and be a force for good in the world! Now in its 6th year, the IPA Youth Essay Competition is a great way to hone your analytical skills and put your research and writing to the test.
This year's theme is #FutureByYou and encourages youth to take an active part in crafting their future through writing.
The deadline to participate is July 1, 2025.
The essay competition is open to middle and high school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. You do not need to be Indian American to participate.
For details Click Here
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Theater MU
This July is the fifth annual Mu Explorations Summer Camp for elementary and middle school students.. All classes take place in St. Paul and Pay As You Are. While Theater MU prioritizes enrollment for students who identify as Asian and Pacific Islander, the classes are open to all students who have an interest in learning more about Asian American theater and history.
Mu Explorations Summer Camp for 3rd-9th Grade
Theater Mu’s week-long summer camps dive into everything theater while centering Asian American identity and history. Students learn powerful skills in creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, storytelling, and self-expression. Choose between morning and afternoon modules or combine them for a full day. At the end of each camp, you’ll perform a showcase, so come explore what’s possible! Learn more at theatermu.org/mu-explorations.
THEATERMU.ORG
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Ragamala Training Center
Registration is now open for all levels of Bharatanatyam at the Ragamala Training Center + 2nd Location at Chinmaya Mission
Led by highly-skilled company members, Ragamala Training Center classes are enriching, fun, and foster cultural awareness. At the Ragamala Training Center, students receive classical training in the style of Bharatanatyam carefully created by the internationally renowned Padma Bhushan Smt. Alarmél Valli. Co-Artistic Director Ranee Ramaswamy and Executive Artistic Director Aparna Ramaswamy are dedicated to preserving and carrying on their Guru’s tradition and passing it on to the next generation of dancers. Ragamala Training Center’s unique program stresses artistic excellence and a professional level of training while fostering cultural awareness.
Ragamala Training Center offers classes for beginners ages 7 through adult, as well as experienced dancers. To register, contact jothika@ragamaladance.org
For questions or more information, please email jothika@ragamaladance.org
https://www.ragamaladance.org/training-center
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South Asian Arts and Theater House (SAATH)
SAATH is excited to bring to you "2 SuitCases" a story that celebrates strength and resilience.
Two women, Meera and Hansaben, generations apart, face the legal and immigration challenges that come with surviving domestic abuse. Their journeys unfold through a cast of 75+ performers who bring with them powerful acting, moving dances, original music and spoken word.
Venue: Luminary Arts Center
700 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Dates & Times:
July 9, 11 12, 15 17 & 18, 2025 at 7:00 pm
July 13 & 19, 2025 at 2:00 pm
Ticket Link:
www.saathmn.org/events/2suitcases (Pay what you can)
https://www.saathmn.org/
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Minnesota Sangeetha Kannada Koota (SKK)
Join SKK for a vibrant day of fun, food, and friendship at the SKK Summer Picnic Day! It’s a wonderful opportunity to network and connect with fellow Kannadigas across the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.
Date: Sat, July 26th, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM CT
Venue: Woodridge Park, Cottage Grove, MN
FREE ENTRY FOR ALL
What’s in store: Cricket, Volleyball, Throwball & More, Melodic Music
Complimentary Breakfast & Lunch, Family-Friendly Activities for all ages
Let’s come together to celebrate our culture, meet old friends, and make new ones—see you there!
RSVP Today! Evite invites have been sent to SKK Members & contact list. Please accept to confirm your spot. New to SKK or missed the invite? Click Here to RSVP. Have questions? Email president.skkmn@gmail.com
Find and follow our event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19Bkzm7hvN/
https://www.kannadamn.org
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Fourth of July
Fireworks! Picnics! Parades! Family reunions! Concerts & Baseball Games!
It's a day to celebrate the red, white and blue and all that is good in America. Although recent events have been challenging, remember what the USA represents and stands for.
The holiday commemorates the day in 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
India Association of Minnesota wishes you a happy & safe Independence Day!
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This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
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Submissions for the IAM Facebook page or future newsletters, please email us at marketing@iamn.org
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