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India Association of Minnesota
November 2025 Newsletter
52 Years Supporting the Indian Community
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Health & Wellness Event
by India Association of Minnesota (IAM)
Pink Garba was all about breast cancer and we focused on that In 2021 thru 2023. Last year, we expanded to all cancers and our fundraising event was Pink Musical, bringing in a whopping $9K for the Randy Shaver Cancer Foundation. The proceeds from this year's program will go to the Children's Cancer Research Fund.
We are expanding our health awareness event again. We are bringing you health experts who will present important information on prevention and care for cardiac conditions, neurology, and cancer, while providing nutritional insights, specific to Indian dietary habits. The event will provide entertainment via a mind bending play, with dance performances and a band.
Mark your calendars and book your tikets now! It's About Time!!!
Click here for more information.
For tickets Click Here
November 1, 2025
3:00 - 7:00 pm
Eisenhower Community Center
1001 MN 7, Hopkins, MN 55305
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IAM Non-Violence Event
On October 4th, IAM, in partnership with Dr. Dash Foundation, Minnesota Historical Society and Twin Cities Nonviolent, hosted International Day of Non-Violence at the Minnesota History Center. The event was a celebration of the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and his enduring principle of non-violence.
The event marked the culmination of “12 Days Free From Violence” organized by Twin Cities Nonviolent. IAM representatives Shruti Joshi, Madhulika Gaur, Alice Northrup and Sanjay Terakanambi participated in two previous events in this series - the International Peace March and a forum on Women and Non-Violence.
| | On the International Day of Non-Violence, we honored Mahatma Gandhi, the pioneer of the peaceful resistance movement and his inspiring legacy through education and public awareness of his principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satyagrah (holding firmly to truth), selflessness and service. The program included tributes via video screenings, music, thought-provoking speeches, awards and yoga for mental clarity and calm. Attendees were greeted as they arrived by Jazz musicians. Refreshments were made available by Chack Le Foodie during the social hour. | | IAM President, Srividya Vaidyanathan, welcomed all attendees with opening remarks. Event lead and Board member, Shruti Joshi, emceed the day's program. Keynote Speaker, Kevin Lindsey, CEO of MN Humanities Center, spoke to the significance of peaceful resistance and dignity for all with a call to action. Raj Rajan presented a unique tribute to the inspired and inspiring life of Gandhi through a collection of stamps. Anokhi Shah spoke passionately on behalf of the youth to cultivate small but mighty practices in our lifestyles to follow in the non-violent path. Emma Corrie, CEO of Twin Cities Rise, presented the Non-Violence Day Proclamation to IAM President. Minnesota Historical Society CEO, Kent Whitworth and Twin Cities Non-Violent founder, Father Harry Bury also addressed the attendees with sincere remarks. | | Ankita Saha and her students from Ankita's Art and Music Academy performed a beautiful musical tribute of Gandhi's beloved songs. Long time stalwart of peace and Honorary Board member, Ram Gada, introduced the Gandhi Vision Awards at the event. Gandhi Vision Awards recognize the service of exemplary individuals and organizations in promoting peace and self-determination. The individual category award was bestowed on Prem Rawat for his decades of humanitarian contributions and global efforts to promote peace, compassion, and wellbeing. The institutional award went to Sehgal Foundation for 25 years of improving quality of life in rural India. | | |
International Day of Non-Violence celebrations concluded with a centering practice of yoga techniques by Himali Patel, Certified Yoga Instructor, for a prescriptive daily calm. The event was well-attended and well-received by the Indian and broader Minnesota community.
Exhibitors participating included Sweet Potato Comfort Pie, Domestic Abuse Project, Compassionate Action for Animals, Twin Cities Non-Violent, Peace Force, Circle of Belonging, Raj Rajan Collection and Prem Rawat Foundation.
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At the event IAM and Dr. Dash Foundation bestowed the GANDHI VISION AWARD in the Institutional category to Sehgal Foundation for its more than 25 years of service to the rural communities of India by improving the quality of life through programs in sustainable agriculture, water management, transforming the lives of schoolchildren, and the empowerment of women. Mr. Jay Sehgal, the Chairperson of Sehgal Foundation received the award and shared his appreciation to the many partners in Minnesota who have so generously helped to further the Sehgal Foundation vision.
25 years of Sehgal Foundation work in Rural India. https://youtu.be/yg4LwvdNo-c
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Under the individual category, Mr. Rawat was awarded for his decades-long humanitarian contributions and global efforts to promote peace, compassion, and wellbeing through his The Prem Rawat Foundation (TPRF), which has a reach in over 100 countries
On behalf of Prem Rawat, Marci Klein, Development Director at The Prem Rawat Foundation, accepted the award.
| | IAM Participating in the Community | | |
Sur Aur Taal
Sur aur Taal (S&T) marked their 10th anniversary this year by organizing a soulful concert of classical Bollywood melodies brought together with a lyrical twist.
Over the past decade, S&T has strived to promote Indian culture and values, revive the timeless music and poetry of the Indian subcontinent, and nurture local talent in Minnesota.
This musical concert “Alfaaz aur Awaaz” bought to Minneapolis the magic of timeless Bollywood Classics, reimagined with new soulful poetry penned by Mr. Ajay Pandey and rendered to life by Indian Idol finalists and talented singers - Piyush Panwar and Gyanita Dwivedi, accompanied by some famous Bollywood and local musicians.
The event was held at Oak Grove Middle School in Bloomington, MN on Sunday 28th September, 2025. To mark their 10 years in service to community, S&T honored 10 community leaders including, 2020 IAM President Sreeni Checka and Dr. SK Dash, symbolizing the 10 years of the remarkable journey and partnership with those leaders.
IAM President Srividya Vaidyanathan and 2024 President Meena Bharati were invited as special guests. Other members of the board who attended were General Secretary Sunitha Pillai, Board member Madhulika Gaur, Sanjay Terakanambi, Fazel Harris and associate BoD Muniesh Khandelwal.
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Sehgal Foundation Shares Vision and Progress at Minnesota Luncheon
The Sehgal Foundation recently hosted a luncheon in Minnesota to share updates on their impactful work empowering rural communities across India. The event was well attended by members of the Minnesota community who have been long-time supporters of the foundation’s mission.
In a significant leadership announcement made in April 2025, Dr. Suri Sehgal, founder of the Sehgal Foundation, and his wife Edda, named Jay Sehgal as the nominated successor and incoming Chairperson of the Board.
Thanks to the generous support from the Minnesota community, the foundation has been able to extend vital infrastructure support to numerous schools across rural India—furthering their mission of education, empowerment, and community development.
The India Association of Minnesota (IAM) is proud to be a close partner of the Sehgal Foundation and extends its warmest wishes for their continued success in uplifting and transforming rural lives across India. IAM President Srividya Vaidyanathan and past presidents Sreeni Checka (2020), Deepshikha Gupta (2004), Babu Chimata (2015), Sree Kamajjola (2017) and Ram Gada attended
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MTBC Awards
The MTBC Board organized their annual awards gala on Saturday, October 4th, after an extraordinary cricketing summer. The special evening brought together the community to celebrate the successes and accomplishments of MTBC players, families, and the league.
IAM was invited to the event for collaborating with MTBC in 2025 for the second year tin a row, to bring wider visibility to the game of cricket among the larger population in Minnesota. After having an all start match in the season finals last year, this year IAM and MTBC went a step further to bring a whole day of cricket experience to the non-cricket playing community in the Twin Cities through Cricket Utsav in early summer and then again at IndiaFest in August. These events received media coverage both on online media as well as on local TV channels.
At the MTBC awards night, hundreds of awards were given to well deserving players and teams. It was great seeing full families participate in this season ending celebration after devoting their weekends to Cricket over the outdoor sporting months in Minnesota.
IAM was represented by President Srividya Vaidyanathan, Treasurer Uma Venkat, and Board Members Analabha Dutta and Anurag Saurabh.
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Hindu Society of Minnesota (HSMN) Diwali Mela
HSMN Diwali Mela 2025 was a celebration of light, culture, and community. This year, HSMN presented the festival in an all-new Fair format — a vibrant gathering that brought together cultural performances, traditions, and the spirit of togetherness.
The event was held on Saturday, Oct 18 at the M Health Fairview Sports Center in Woodbury. The event saw an enthusiastic participation from the community.
The IAM Officers, who were invited compliments of the HSMN board, attended to celebrate with the community. Other board members present were Reena Raichur, Manjula Raman, Fazel Haris, Madhulika Gaur and Muniesh Khandelwal.
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Rajasthan Association of Midwest Celebrates Diwali
The IAM Board attended the first Diwali Milan event hosted by the Rajasthan Association of Midwest. The celebration began with traditional rituals, followed by vibrant cultural performances and a delicious spread of authentic Rajasthani cuisine.
IAM President Vidya Vaidyanathan was among the special invitees, representing the India Association of Minnesota with great pride. Additional IAM attendees included Dr. SK Dash, Ram Gada, Meena Bharti, Pradeep Sukhani, and Munish Khandelwal, joined in celebrating the spirit of Diwali and fostering inter-community collaboration.
IAM board members also contributed to the cultural segment. Madhulika Gaur delivered a powerful monologue portraying the valor and grace of Queen Padmavati, captivating the audience with her expressive performance and emotional depth. Her portrayal reflected the courage, dignity, and spirit of Rajasthani heritage. And Rashmi Jindani participated in the elegant Ghoomar dance choreographed by Renu Kumar from RGK Dance Academy, adding color and rhythm to the evening with her graceful performance.
The event showcased the richness of Rajasthan’s culture.
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Woodbury
Anurag Saurabh, Mangala Acharya, Reena Raichur and Uma Venkat represented IAM at the "Welcome To Woodbury" event hosted by the city of Woodbury on Thursday, October 23, 2025.
New residents to Woodbury were invited to come learn about City of Woodbury services, programs, initiatives, and events as well as resources available from nonprofit organizations in the area at this fun, free event. Attendees were welcome to meet with Woodbury City Council members and city staff at information booths hosted by Parks and Recreation, Public Safety, Public Works, Engineering, Community Development, Community Relations and the destination marketing organization, Destination: Woodbury!
In addition, there were several non-profit resource booths, inflatables and bounce houses for kids. The event was well attended by new residents to Woodbury as well as residents who wanted to learn more and connect with the city we all love!
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SEWA-AIFW Celebration
"Cultivating Hope" was the theme for SEWA-AIFW's Annual Community Celebration. The event was held at the Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center on Friday evening, October 24, 2025.
The evening began with a performance by Anu Gupta, Prince Priyan and Anand Krishnan, followed by a Lamp Lighting Ceremony. SEWA-AIFW's CEO, Anjuli Misra Cameron spoke about Hope & Resiliency. The Keynote speaker was Vanan Murugeson, Executive Director of the Sahan Journal. Entertainment included a Bharatanatyam, a vibrant Tibetan Folk Dance and a soulful Udesha performance. Dr. Sayali Amarapurkar, a past IAM Board member and now Community Connection, Education & Research Director at SEWA-AIFW spoke about A New Chapter.
Madhuilika Gaur, Manjula Raman and Shanti Shah represented IAM and cheered on IAM Committee member, Venkat Seemakurthy who was honored with the Outstanding Service Award. Ratna Malakapalli was also honored.
Dinner and a lively celebration concert, featuring Manish Shahdapuri closed out the evening.
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Oikotan Minnesota
On Saturday, October 25, 2025, Analabha Dutta, Mangala Acharya and Rashmi Jindani represented IAM at Oikotan MN's first big event, Mahakali Mahotsav 2025 held at Eden Prairie High School.
The festive event was marked by grand celebration of heritage, culture, devotion, and community togetherness, with grand showcase of music, dance, and storytelling that celebrates the richness of Bengali traditions.
https://oikotanmn.org/
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Mia exhibit on Royal Bronzes:
Cambodian Art of the Divine
Coalition on Asian Pacific Minnesotans (CAPM)
CAPM and Mia organized a private reception of the Royal Bronzes - Cambodian Art of the Divine at the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) on Friday, October 24.The exhibit is an enriching experience of the ancient art and sculptures from the Khmer Empire, which is now northern Cambodia.
IAM President Srividya Vaidyanathan was on the exclusive invite from CAPM, along with the leaders of nine other API organizations, for this private reception.
Others present were a dozen Cambodian Minnesotan leaders, top donors of Mia, and
dignitaries from France and Cambodian government.
The exhibit opens for public from tomorrow, Oct 25th.
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Mia Community Celebration
Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia), the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans (CAPM), and Watt Munisotaram cordially invite the community on November 06, from 5.00 to 8.00 pm, to a special community reception to celebrate “Royal Bronzes: Cambodian Art of the Divine,” an extraordinary exhibition that brings together rare and exquisite bronze sculptures from Cambodia’s Khmer Empire.
Showcasing sacred objects, ritual artifacts, and masterful works of art, the exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and artistic traditions that shaped one of the world’s great civilizations. This gathering is an opportunity to experience the beauty of Cambodian heritage while connecting with the Minnesota Cambodian community.
Cultural attire is welcomed. Enjoy light refreshments throughout the evening, and listen to welcoming remarks at 6 p.m. There will be complimentary 30-minute tours at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. There’s a maximum capacity of 30 participants per tour. You’re welcome to experience the exhibition on your own.
For tickets Click Here
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Ragamala at Mia
To celebrate Mia's Royal Bronzes exhibition, featuring a colossal sculpture of the Hindu God Vishnu, Ragamala's Moving Bronzes brings to life the gods and goddesses of Hindu mythology, transforming the theater into a temple sanctum. Performed by mother/daughter creators Ranee, Aparna, and Ashwini Ramaswamy, this visually stunning and emotionally compelling performance continues Ragamala’s legacy of forging meaningful connections between ancient art forms and contemporary life.
Saturday, November 8, 2025
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Pillsbury Auditorium & Regis Court
For tickets Click Here
The performance will be followed by a discussion and community reception catered by Raag on 50th - Modern Indian Cuisine.
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IAM 2026 Board & Committee Members
The Nominations Committee of India Association of Minnesota wants interested community members to apply to be a 2026 IAM Board Member or a member of an IAM Committee.
IAM Board and Committee members are required to be an active IAM member. See Membership information below. Watch your email and look for updated on our website and social media for additiolnal details to be sent out soon.
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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.
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Upcoming IAM Calendar of Events
Event/Date/Venue
- Health Awareness Event - November 1st, Eisenhower Community Center
Watch for coming events in future newsletters, on Facebook and the IAM website www.iamn.org.
| | Government Relations & Community Engagement | | |
Ananya Dance Theatre
Rejuvenate. Regenerate. Remember. On this transitional day, marking the end of harvest season and the growing darkness of winter (All Souls Day, Día de los muertos, Samhain, Feast of the Ancestors)— join us at the GloFFUC, the Global Feminist Funk Underground Club.
This space is where we dance fiercely, to throw of the residue of our endless struggles to organize and push back against injustices, and to meditate on our renewal. Facilitated by the artists of Ananya Dance Theatre, we will cultivate a practice of joyful dance and embodied meditation that sees and honors the many contexts of our resistance and survival.
To RSVP Click Here
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Hamline University's Asian Pacific American Coalition (APAC)
APAC is excited to be hosting its annual Desi Night on November 17th from 6:00 -9:00 pm. Do you have students in your organization who would be interested in performing!
APAC is looking for people interested in singing a song, reciting poetry/storytelling, playing an instrument, etc.
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CONCERT OF MORNING RAGAS
On the heels of that electric, riveting performance by ARAJ on Oct 11, IMSOM is thrilled to bring you another young and exciting Hindustani vocal talent who is a rising star in India – Siddharth Belmannu. This concert is extra special since we get to hear a spectrum of morning Ragas – so rare in the Twin Cities.
This concert is presented jointly with the Antarnaad Center for Hindustani Music (Minneapolis).
Please join for what promises to be a sublime, meditative morning of Hindustani vocal music
Saturday, November 8 from
10:00 AM – 12:00 noon
St Kates Recital Hall, St. Paul, MN
For all details: www.imsom.org
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KATHA DANCE THEATRE
ANNOUNCES LOCAL PREMIERE OF "NATURE'S REVENGE"
Katha Dance Theatre is excited to present the MN premiere of Prakritir Pratisodh – Nature’s Revenge! at The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University this November.
Nature’s Revenge portrays through Kathak dance a series of vignettes depicting what happens when human actions drive the five basic elements (or “Panchabhuta” – earth, water, fire, air, and space – which in Indian philosophy and Ayurveda are considered the fundamental building blocks of the universe and the human body) out of sync, and how we can work together to bring them back into harmony. It shows how we all benefit when we foster a relationship of mutual respect with the earth.
Featuring new and expanded choreography by KDT Artistic Director Rita Mustaphi and music composed by Pandit Birju Maharaj, Sarat Srivastav, Rajeev Chakraborty and Jayanta Banerjee, the show is in keeping with KDT’s mission to propel the Kathak tradition into genre-bending spaces, including social justice and climate change advocacy. The work-in-progress version was named by the Minnesota Star Tribune as one of the 10 most memorable dance performances of 2023.
WHAT: Prakritir Pratisodh – Nature’s Revenge!
WHERE: The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave., St. Paul, 55105
WHEN: November 8 at 7:30 pm and November 9 at 2:30 pm (ASL-interpreted)
ForTickets Click Here Prices are pay what you can, $10 – $30 (Suggested price is $30).
https://www.kathadance.org/
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Kerala Hindus of Minnesota (KHMN)
KHMN, in partnership with the Dr. Dash Foundation, is proud to present a rare cultural evening: Kathakali – the 400-year-old classical temple theatre of Kerala, India.
Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM
Venue: Wayzata Central Middle School, Plymouth, MN
Kathakali is one of the world’s most visually striking performance traditions – combining elaborate makeup, ornate costumes, live percussion, expressive dance, and powerful storytelling rooted in Indian epics and mythology.
KHMN invites all community members to join in celebrating this timeless tradition.
To purchase your tickets here - Click Here
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South Asian Arts and Theater House (SAATH)
Bolly Twerk Series
Sign up Link Click Here
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Anu Viswa - South Indian Movie Choreographer is coming to Minneapolis. She will be conducting a workshop.
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
7:30 - 9:00 pm
Threads Dance Project
2213 Snelling Ave So., Minneapolis MN.55406
For tickets Click Here
$20 on line, $22 walk in.
https://www.saathmn.org/
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Let’s Break the Silence — Together.
At SEWA-AIFW, we believe in creating safe, inclusive spaces where South Asian women can connect, learn, and thrive. Menopause is a natural transition — yet too often, it’s shrouded in silence. It’s time to change that.
Sakhi: Pause for Menopause is a heartfelt gathering for women aged 35 and older, designed to honor the journey of womanhood through storytelling, expert insights, and shared experiences. Whether you're navigating perimenopause or post-menopause, this event is for you.
Did you know?
- Perimenopause symptoms can begin as early as age 35.
- Women spend nearly one-third of their lives in post-menopause.
- Every woman’s experience is unique — and deserves to be heard.
We’re proud to partner with South Asian Women’s Network (SAWN) to host this FREE community event. Come as you are, and leave feeling informed, empowered, and supported by your fellow Sakhis — trusted companions on this journey.
Date: Saturday, November 16th, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: SEWA-AIFW Community Center
6645 James Ave N, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
RSVP Now: https://tinyurl.com/ytpx5frc
Let’s pause, reflect, and rise — together.
#SEWAAIFW #SAWN #SakhiForMenopause #SouthAsianWomen #CommunityCare #MenopauseAwareness #WomensHealth
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Over the centuries, The Banyan tree has taken on significance as a symbol of fertility, life and resurrection – a fitting symbol for ‘VoicesUnderTheBanyanTree’. This storytelling initiative reflects the heart of SEWA-AIFW’S mission: to serve, support and enhance South Asian family wellness. Voices Under the Banyan Tree shares the journeys of community members who have wandered far from their ancestral homes, traversing new frontiers and setting down roots and networks in the US. Through their stories of resilience, achievement and hope, we honor them, and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of the South Asian diaspora.
Our story today features the inspiring individuals serving the South Asian community, through their work on SEWA-AIFW’s ‘Health and Resource Clinic’ Program. Motivated by a deep commitment to health care for their fellow community members, they have made a profound difference in the health and mental wellbeing of countless immigrants.
Click Here to read author Ruby Anik's article about SEWA-AIFW
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EAAA's Diwali Celebration
Community Came Together for a Festive Weekend
On Oct 10th 2025 the Edina Asian American Alliance (EAAA) brought the vibrant spirit of Diwali to life at 50th & France in Edina, hosting a weekend-long Festival of Lights that was nothing short of spectacular. The event was free and family-friendly, making it accessible to everyone in the community, and it truly embodied the essence of togetherness and cultural celebration.
Celebration Highlights
The Diwali Kickoff Celebration on Friday evening was a highlight, featuring an unforgettable lineup of performances that lit up the Plaza at Nolan Mains. Local groups, including South Asian Arts and Theater House (SAATH), Mira Babal, Beta Version, and the Marathi Association of Minnesota, showcased high-energy performances with fusion numbers, drumming and traditional South Asian dances. Each act brought a unique flair, captivating the audience with their talent and passion.
- Engaging Activities: Over 1,000 people joined in just two hours to enjoy live performances that kept the energy high and the smiles bright. Attendees also had the chance to participate in diya painting, henna art, rangoli, and chalk art adding a hands-on element to the festivities that delighted both children and adults.
- Delicious Food: The culinary offerings, including samosas, chai, and bento boxes from Raag on 50th, were a hit, allowing guests to indulge in authentic flavors while enjoying the atmosphere.
- Community Spirit: Remarks from Edina Mayor Jim Hovland underscored the importance of community and collaboration, reinforcing EAAA's mission to bring people together through cultural understanding.
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REVIWE Wardrobe: South Asian Clothing Swap: On Saturday, October 11, EAAA hosted its inaugural clothing swap, the REVIWE Wardrobe, at Raag Restaurant. This exciting event encouraged community members to bring gently used South Asian clothing, including sarees, salwar kameez, indo-western fusion wear, scarves, lehengas, and sherwanis, for exchange.
- Saree Draping Workshop: The following day, on Sunday, October 12, The Fitting Room hosted a saree draping workshop where EAAA volunteers taught participants how to drape sarees with ease, further celebrating South Asian culture.
A Celebration of Light
EAAA Community Co-Chair Raja Chinnakotla beautifully articulated the essence of Diwali, emphasizing its significance in overcoming obstacles and celebrating the light of hope. The weekend was a testament to this spirit, as families and friends gathered to embrace the rich traditions of Diwali.
Overall, the EAAA's First Diwali celebration was a resounding success, filled with joyful moments, cultural enrichment, and community bonding while supporting local businesses. It was a wonderful reminder of the beauty of diversity and the power of coming together to celebrate life. We can't wait to see what next year has in store!
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Thanksgiving
Thursday, November 27 , 2025
President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday on the last Thursday in November in 1863 and tradition dictated that it be celebrated on the last Thursday of that month.
Gather with your families & friends and celebrate this day for giving thanks.
IAM wishes everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
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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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