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India Association of Minnesota
September 2026 Newsletter
53 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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The India Association of Minnesota (IAM) extends our deepest sympathy, solidarity, and support to the people of Nepal and Tibet and to our Nepali and Tibetan friends and neighbors in Minnesota as they confront the devastating impact of the recent massive flooding.
Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones, those who have been injured or displaced, and communities whose homes and livelihoods have been devastated. We also recognize the courage and dedication of first responders, relief workers, healthcare professionals, and volunteers working tirelessly to save lives and provide assistance. To read the full message Click Here
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IndiaFest 2026
By India Association of Minneota
IndiaFest 2026 was held on August 15, India Independence Day, on the Minnesota State Capitol grounds. The State of Minnesota has recognized August 15 as India Day, since a bill was passed into law in 2021. The 2026 theme was Weaves and Traditional Fabrics of India.
Rain showers in the morning did not dampen our enthusiasm and ended just in time for all those attending to “Experience India in a Day“.
Led by President Mangala Acharya, the team was ready for the eventful day.
New this year, IAM introduced a map and live information on its website for the convenience of everyone to use throughout the day.
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Parade, Flag Hoisting & Ceremonies
Marching at the head of the IndiaFest parade was the India Association of Minnesota family. Along the way many dignitaties joined them as they proceeded to the Capitol lawn for the flag hoisting. Following IAM were representatives of regional partners, organizations and others, dressed in their regional clothing and proudly carrying their banners. Many danced and played music as they waved to friends and onlookers. As they approached the stage, Rupali Gupta and Deeksha Panda made a brief statement about each group while they had a picture taken.
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IAM President, Mangala Acharya accepted the India Day Proclamation from Nekey Oliver - Director of Government Relations & Community Engagement for the Minnesota Governor's office.
Sanjay Terakanambi emceed the formal section of the ceremonies. He first introduced US Senator Amy Klobuchar. She hoisted the United States of America flag and sang along as the Star Spangled Banner was sung. Senator Klobuchar then addressed the crowd.
IAM President 1990, Godan Nambudiripad hoisted the Indian Flag. Jana Gana Mana was proudly sung by the bystanders. Godan delivered very brief remarks to the delight of the crowd.
Venkat Seemakurthy, as he has for many years, took on the important task of setting up the flags and was there to help the dignitaries unfurl them.
Sanjay introduced the dignitaries to the audience. It was the largest number of legislators to ever attend an IndiaFest. Attorney General Keith Ellison and State Senator Eric Pratt addressed the audience.
Dignitaries were then invited to the VIP tent for refreshments where they were hosted by IAM Past Presidents and honorary IAM members.
IAM was proud to feature the amazing group of youth singers and violinists who played the two national anthems. They were Prerna Manjunath, Avni Ranade, Harikka Nambiar Shiven Kharadihal, Keshav Kharidihal, Vedant Chetan, Anahi Mathad, Manya Mathad, Ishaan Konar, Anvi Nyalpelli, Aarti Kannan and Aditi Kannan.
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The 2026 STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP AWARDs were presented to Mahendran Madhan Kumar and Rhythm Shah for Overall Accomplishments in High School. Anokhi Bhavin Shah received the award for Outstanding Community Service, Advika Chaudhari for Outstanding Entrepreneurial Leadership and Jay Asrani for Outstanding Accomplishments in Arts & Sports. This year a sixth scholarship, the Judges Award for Overall Accomplishments in High School was given to Sricharan Surya Kanajam.
Thank you to judges Ravi Sagi (2018), Nasreen Shaikh (2019) and Dr. Bruce Corrie for sponsoring the Judges award and taking on the task of selecting the recipients from the largest number of applications received in the many years of these awards. Thank you to Dr. SK Dash Foundation for again sponsoring the five scholarships. Srividya Vaidyanathan (2025) facilitated this year's program.
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IAM Olympiad Trophies were presented at IndiaFest. Congratulations to the youngsters who studied hard to learn about India and then participated in the Olympiad in May. The awards were presented by Madhan Kumar Rajendran who led this event.They are pictured with Sen Amy Klobuchar.
Thank you to Vishala Pamulaparhy and Kuhu Singh for for doing the daunting task of judging the participants for the booth and parade awards.
The 2026 awards, to be presented at Connect India 2027 are:
- Best Culturally Relevant Booth - Bengali Association of MN
- Best Participation in the Parade - Marathi Association of MN
- Best Interactive Booth - Sangeeta Kannada Koota
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Cultlural Performances & Bollywood Nite
One of the highlights of IndiaFest is always the cultural performances by community dance troupes during late morning and early afternoon. Proud relatives and teachers watch as their group, family member or friends perform on stage. Ths year's program featured thirteen community groups.
The stage had an enormous backdrop brought back from India just weeks before. Rashmi Jindani organized the cultural program with help from other IAM Board Members and Interns. Anokhi Shah and Agriya Bharadwaj emceed the cultural program.
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After the flag hoisting ceremonies, the professional segment started. Katha Dance Theatre, Natyakala Dance School, Nritya Kalakshetra Academy, Orissa Dance Academy and SAATH took to the stage.
In the early evening, as the booths were wrapping up, the professional performers pumped up the audience. Ananth Vikram & the MN Jammers Band, along with Minnesota Junoon and Virsaat Dance Academy were the final acts of the day.
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Activities, Bazaar & Food
Laughter, giggles and the swoosh of bouncing bodies could be heard at the always popular inflatables. The activities booth, led by Manjula Raman and Aditi Velankar was busy throughout the day. Face painting, bindis and tatoos were in high demand. Kids did creative designs painting diyas. Many played caroom and chess. Thank you to the many volunteers who made it a fun day for the kids. Lots of prizes were given.
New this year was IndiaFest Bingo. Thank you to the India Student Association (ISA), from the University of Minnesota, for producing the game and hosting a booth for this interactive bingo game. Thank you to the regional partners and booths for participating in this unique interactive activity.
There were fourteen food vendors this year. Sugarcane juice and ice cream were a refreshing treat when the dew point reached 72 and the sun came out. The food vendors were busy into the evening serving delicious Indian cuisine.
No IndiaFest is complete without a Bazaar and this year was no exception. Indian clothes, jewelry and beautiful artwork was available. The atmosphere around the bazaar was vibrant and colorful.
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Words can never express how much we value....
India Association of Minnesota thanks all of the volunteers who gave their time and talent to make this event a success. It would not have been possible without you.
We also thank photographer Rajesh Govindaraj and videographer Anil Kundeti for capturing the spirit of IndiaFest. Our gratitude to One Simple Plan (OSP) for production and Anne Johnson and the Minnesota State Capitol Hill staff for their guidance in helping us achieve our goals.
Thank you to our grantors and sponsors, pictured in the newsletter banner. Thank you to Dr. SK & Kalpana Dash for their continuing support. Also, thank you for the continued support from all our regional partners and other exhibitors for continuing to set up booths at IndiaFest and support IAM.
And last but certainly not least the entire IAM family - Officers, Board members, Working Committee members, Advisory committees, Interns and Administration. Everyone on this team contributed, some are mentioned throughout this recap. Others work behind the scenes with dedication because we all believe in the mission of IAM and serving the Minnesota Indian community.
Special thanks to the IAM Past Presidents who continue to support IAM's initiatives and volunteer: Stefan Peterson (1988), Godan Nambudiripad (1990), Shanti Shah (1992), Niru Misra (1994), Ananth Shankar (2000), Ashoke Mandal (2002), Ramesh Muniswamy (2006), Raj Menon (2009), Sree Kamajjola (2017), Ravi Sagi (2018), Nash Shaikh (2019), Sreeni Checka (2020), Tanwi Prigge (2023), Srividya Vaidyanathan (2025) and honory members Ram Gada, Dr Bruce Corrie and Anoop & Preeti Mathur.
The months of planning and preparation and the hours of work are what made IndiaFest a success. Thank you! Until next year!
| | India Association of Minnesota is in the planning stages for our annual Health event. Watch for information on the IAM website, social media and the October newsletter. | | IAM Participating in the Community | | |
Chance Foundation
On August 23, 2026, a beautiful Sunday morning, Chance Foundation's 5K Run & Walk was held at Elm Creek Park Preserve. IAM President Mangala & Harish Acharya participated in the event.. Chance president Ramesh Muniswamy (IAM President 2006) greeted the runners and walkers as they crossed the finish line.
All childen deserve a chance for basic education, healthy enviornment and a bright future. To support the work of the Chance Foundation Donate Here
www.chanceforthem.org
| | Government Relations & Community Engagement | |
2026 is an Election Year!
Election Day Is Nov 3rd
Vote by mail or in person
Sept 8 - Nov 2
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 - 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 political parties or 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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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
- Non-Violence Day - October 2, 2026, Minnesota History Center
- Health Awareness Charity Event - October 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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SAARI
South Asians Against Racial Injustice
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Twin Cities Nonviolent (TCNV)
TCNV invites you to join the annual Hands Across the Mississippi River event on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at the start fo the Twelve Days Free from Violence. Gather at noon on West River Commons Plaza and walk out on the Lake Street & Marshall Avenue bridge.
Mayors from the eleven county metro area are invidted to come and sign the 2026 Peace Proclamation. Also invited are many different faith-based organizations. The Imnizaska Indigenous singers and drummers will be back to bless the Mississippi River.
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Indiaspora Heritage Connect Program
Almost everyone in this community carries the same quiet inheritance: a life built abroad, and a thread back to India that never quite lets go. For our children, growing up outside India, that thread is thinner. They know the food, the festivals, the family stories, but rarely India itself, on its own terms.
That's the gap the Indiaspora Heritage Connect Program is designed to close.
We're proud to introduce this new IndiasporaNEXT initiative: a 12-day heritage and leadership journey across India for diaspora high school juniors and seniors, aged 17 to 19, from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Australia.
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2026
- Interviews: 1-15 October 2026
- Selections announced: 20 October 2026
- Program dates: 21 December 2026 - 1 January 2027
For more information and to apply Indiaspora Heritage Connect Program - Indiaspora
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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. Photo by Alexis Lund.
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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The Ragamala Training Center
Introductory through advanced-level Bharatanatyam classes for ages 7+
Registration for 2026-27 is open now!
Email jothika@ragamaladance.org for more information on class placements.
The Ragamala Training Center is the educational arm of the internationally renowned Minneapolis-based Ragamala Dance Company. Artistic Directors Ranee Ramaswamy and Aparna Ramaswamy are committed to preserving and carrying on the legacy of their guru, the internationally renowned Padma Bhushan Smt. Alarmél Valli, considered to be one of India’s greatest living masters. Her carefully developed signature style of Bharatanatyam is distinguished by its technical precision, grace, and subtlety of expression. The Ragamala Training Center’s unique program stresses artistic excellence and a professional level of training while fostering cultural awareness, passing on this exquisite, classical tradition to the next generation of dancers to find meaning, strength, connection, empowerment, and joy.
Email jothika@ragamaladance.org for more information on class placements.
Register for classes here: https://forms.gle/9RffkFjZQB3tyBav5
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SHIFT: Do What Moves You (2025)
An inspiring short documentary by Tell My Story
Sewa-AIFW presents Free Film Screening & Guided Community Conversation
Date: Tueday, September 22, 2026
Time: 5.30 - 8.30 pm
Address: 6645 James Ave N, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
Heavy Snacks served
Join for a powerful 28-minute film that explores youth mental well-being through a hope-centered, possibility-focused lens. Featuring real stories from 13 young people—a skateboarder, ballerina, musical theater performer, artists, and more—this film highlights how youth can take meaningful steps to navigate life’s challenges and build resilience.
Who should attend:
• Middle & high school students (Grades 6–12)
• Parents, grandparents & caregivers
• Educators, youth workers & community members who care about youth mental health
What to expect:
Real youth voices & lived experiences
Inspiring stories of agency and growth
A shift from focusing on problems to embracing possibilities
Come be inspired to “do what moves you.”
Free event - registration required: Sewa-AIFW presents "SHIFT" – Fill out form
Brought to you by TellMyStory.org
| | September Community Events | | |
Cultural Destinations
Bringing the World to the State Fair Grounds
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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Enjoy Many Rhythms. One Celebration: The World Coming Together at the Minnesota State Fair on the Dan Patch Stage, on Sunday, September 6th, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Website - Many Rhythms. One Celebration: The World Coming Together at the Minnesota State Fair - Cultural Destinations For more information click on the QR code for list of performers and times.
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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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Hindu Society of Minnesota
HSMN Blood Donation Drive: Experience the joy of giving back through seva (selfless service).
Date: Saturday, September 19
Location: Hindu Society of Minnesota (HSMN)
Reserve Your Slot: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=HINDUSOCMN
Special Donor Incentive: Exclusive Red Cross x Hello Kitty collectible item, while supplies last!
Join the Hindu Society of Minnesota and the American Red Cross for a community blood drive and help make a lifesaving difference. Every donation has the potential to save up to three lives and support patients in need of surgeries, cancer treatments, trauma care, and other medical emergencies.
Together, we can make a meaningful impact—one donation at a time.
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Indian Music Society of Minnesota (IMSOM)
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
https://www.imsom.org/
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Walk for Mental Health. Walk for Hope. Walk Together.
They say no one NAMIWalks alone—and it’s true. Together, we are strong. Together, we create hope. Together, we are NAMIWalks. Join SEWA on September 26 at Minnehaha Falls as we come together to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support mental health resources for individuals and families.
Sign up and walk with Team SEWA-AIFW!
Participation is FREE, and everyone is welcome. Whether you walk, fundraise, or simply show your support, every step helps build a stronger, more compassionate community.
Join us. Bring a friend or family member. Help spread awareness and hope.
See you on September 26 at Minnehaha Falls! Time: 9 a.m. - Noon
Register here:https://www.namiwalks.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=register.start&eventID=2155&teamID=85439
For more details about the day of the event visit: https://www.namiwalks.org/minnesota
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Minnesota Malayalee Association (MMA)
MMA proudly presents Malar – The MMA Onam Edit 2026, a celebration of Kerala’s vibrant Onam traditions, bringing the community together for a day of culture, food, performances, and festivities.
September 12, 2026
11:30 AM onwards
Hopkins High School
Event highlights include:
• Traditional Onam Sadya • Cultural performances • Pookkalam & Payasam competitions
• Community activities and celebrations
Early Bird registration is open through September 2.
Registration: https://mma2026-event.paperform.co/?event=malar
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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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SAPHAL 2026 - Standing Out in a Transforming World
Your resume won't save you. Your brand will.
AI is already changing how work gets done, who gets recognized, and who gets left behind. The professionals who thrive aren't just the most technically skilled - they're the ones who know how to lead, communicate, and stand out.
The urgency is real. And this event was built for exactly this moment.
Click Here to register
Follow us on social media : LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
https://www.sawnmn.org/
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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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SOLO
Presented by the McKnight Fellowship Program for Dancers
September 18 & 19 at the O'Shaughnessy
Don't miss this evening of Minnesota premieres, ranging from Afrobeats to Krump to Contemporary Ballet and more (featuring Ananya Dance Theatre's very own Kealoha Ferreira, a 2024 McKnight Dancer Fellow)!
Purchase tickets here
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The Telugu Association of Minnesota (TEAM)
TEAM is excited to announce our upcoming Sand-Volleyball Tournament!
The court is ready, the net is set, and it is time to see who will claim the championship title. Assemble your team and sign up today for the TEAM - Sand Volleyball Tournament!
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Date: September 19, 2026
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Time: 8:00 AM
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Location: Riley Lake Park
- Eden Prairie, MN (same as last year)
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Entry Fee: $150 per team (same as last year)
Registration & Perks
Early Bird Special: Register by August 31, 2026, to score FREE T-SHIRTS for your entire team!
Hurry, register now: https://bit.ly/3U72f9C
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VT Seva Minnesota
VT Seva invites you to participate in the 9th Annual Walkathon, sponsored in collaboration with PROP Foods. This year, funds raised will support cancer screening and early detection initiatives, including cervical cancer screening for women in need. Every step can help give someone the chance of earlier detection.
September 20 | 10 AM–2 PM
Hyland Park Reserve, Bloomington
Register: https://form.123formbuilder.com/6971852/minneapolis-walkathon-2026
| Oct - Nov Community Events | |
Ananya Dance Theatre
Join as ADT explores and celebrates practices of public love and care against the backdrop of occupation. PREM will honor the long history of organizing in the Twin Cities, one historically sustained by marginalized communities.
PREM | Love: An Occupation
October 10-11 & 15-17, 2026
The Southern Theater
Tickets
https://www.ananyadancetheatre.org/
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Experience live Lucknowi Hindi theatre in Minnesota!
Hindi Naatak Company, Minnesota’s home for live Hindi theatre, presents Salim Shervani Ki Shaadi - a hilarious family comedy filled with Lucknowi humor, shaadi chaos, laughter, and heartfelt moments.
Venue: Eden Prairie High School Auditorium
Date & Time: Friday, October 2, 2026: 7:00–9:00 PM
Saturday, October 3, 2026: 4:30–6:30 PM
Sunday, October 4, 2026: 4:30–6:30 PM
This is a Benefit Show, and tickets are now on sale. Special Pricing for Seniors We also have opportunities available for: Sponsorships • Community Partnerships • Diwali Bazaar Booths. Call for details: 630-809-9420 or 919-413-1526
Ticket link: https://www.simpletix.com/e/salim-shervani-ki-shaadi-tickets-275348
https://www.instagram.com/naatak_company/
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Labor Day
Monday, September 7, 2026
Labor Day has been recognized in the United States for more than 130 years. It was designated a holiday in 1894.
The holiday is celebrated with parades, family gatherings and the last day of the Minnesota State Fair. It is a day to remember that each of us has contributed to the success of the United States through our labor.
India Association wishes everyone a happy and safe Labor Day!
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Constitution Day
Thursday, September 17, 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s adoption in 1787 TimeAndDate+1. It is also known as Citizenship Day, honoring all U.S. citizens and the nation’s founding document
constitution day 2026 - Search
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Patriot Day
25th Anniversary of 9/11
"Patriot Day is a national observance in the United States, established by Congress in December 2001 and signed into law by President George W. Bush Awareness Days. It honors the nearly 3,000 people killed in the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania National VA Loans+1. It also recognizes the courage of first responders and the resilience of the American people."
patriot's day 2026 - Search
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Arika Kundu
Thirteen year old, Minnetonka Middle School East, student is competing in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge.
Arika has invented a method to reduce pesticide residues on fresh fruits and vegetables by using peanut shells, somthing usually thrown away.
Indian-American students continue to make their mark in science and innovation, with five girls of Indian descent earning places among the ten national finalists in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, one of America’s premier middle school STEM competitions.
The ten finalists, ages 11 to 14, will compete October 12-13 at the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, where they will face a series of live scientific challenges, present their projects to a panel of judges, and vie for the $25,000 grand prize and the title of America’s Top Young Scientist.
To read The Times of India article Click Here
To read the lndian American Commnunity News Click Here
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Arun George
We are incredibly proud to congratulate Arun George, a valued member of our community, on his achievement of graduating on August 06, 2026 as a Specialist in the U.S. Army. His outstanding achievement is truly inspiring that reflects dedication, discipline, perseverance, and a strong commitment to serving our country. We are also especially honored that he is completing his Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in September 2026. Please join us along with his family in celebrating this remarkable milestone of our beloved community member and wishing him continued strength, success, and honor as he begins the next chapter of his military service journey. Congratulations and We salute you, Arun George—our community is proud of you!
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Harsh Mankad
Go-to coarch for Minnesota tennis
readies the next talent wave
"Former Gophers tennis great Harsh Mankad devotes time to teaching the next generation of players
Since retiring from competition, Mankad has carved out a niche as a sought-after tennis coach.
Mankad, who was inducted into the University of Minnesota’s M Club Hall of Fame in 2024, has become something of a pied-piper in Minnesota youth tennis. For years, young players have benefited from being coached by one of the most accomplished athletes in University of Minnesota history.
Mankad has the bona fides. He was the No. 1-ranked junior player in his native India, a standout player for the U of M from 1999-2002, won the 2001 ITA National Indoor title, played professionally on the ATP Tour, and represented India in Davis Cup competition.
After retiring from competition, he settled in the Twin Cities and turned tennis instruction into his life’s work. He developed and founded a tennis teaching platform, Tenicity, designed to connect with younger players and emphasize fundamental development. That approach mirrors how he learned the game growing up in India. “Tennis is a lifetime sport, but it’s also a sport where you have to have good fundamentals to improve,” he said. “A young player with good athleticism might be able to tap the ball over the net, but they won’t improve without developing the proper skills.”
Read StarTribune article Former Gophers great Harsh Mankad develops tennis talent
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