BY SONAM MIRPURI
ARTESIA, CA - India’s Republic Day was celebrated by the Indian Association of Southern California (IASC) at the Himalayan Cuisine restaurant on Jan 24. Simple yet elegant decorations welcomed guests to the event which started with a parade. Guests were invited to join in the parade with committee members...
ARTESIA, CA - India’s Republic Day was celebrated by the Indian Association of Southern California (IASC) at the Himalayan Cuisine restaurant on Jan 24. Simple yet elegant decorations welcomed guests to the event which started with a parade. Guests were invited to join in the parade with committee members...
and sponsors. The parade wound around the restaurant twice to commemorate the day that the Constitution of India was adopted by the Indian Constituent Assembly. Beginning with a photo op, the parade continued with the participants walking to patriotically themed music and concluded with everyone returning to the restaurant. Consisting of a few speeches and performances the event was an educational experience. After singing of both the American and Indian national anthems, IASC President Atul Makwana, Dipal Makwana and Charu Shivakumar, organizers of the event, started off by welcoming the audience.
Ramesh Mahajan, one of the sponsors,went on to say a few words in regards to the importance of Republic Day.“As a community, it is important that we all come together to celebrate these significant events such as Republic Day,” said Mahajan.
Dr. Krishna Reddy, another sponsor, addressing the audience said, “The Indian Association of Southern California has always had great events which create a platform for children to be involved in. I am proud to partner with such an organization.” “I want to take this time to thank everyone who came today. I also want to thank all of the individuals who assisted in putting this event together: participants, sponsors, and volunteers,” said Makwana. The cultural segment kept the audience entertained and showcased talent of local youth. A group of children, came on stage to teach the audience members a few important points about India. The children spoke about the difference between Independence Day and Republic Day. Additionally, the kids told the audience about India’s national symbols, their significance, as well as contributions of some of the many leaders who helped India gain independence. One of the many performances was a narrative titled “Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Dhijo.” This beautifully told story through dance, revolved around how mothers want to keep all of their children because they are a part of the mother and not participate in female infanticide. It voiced the pressures faced from society to have a boy child instead of a girl. The event was enjoyed by all who attended.
Ramesh Mahajan, one of the sponsors,went on to say a few words in regards to the importance of Republic Day.“As a community, it is important that we all come together to celebrate these significant events such as Republic Day,” said Mahajan.
Dr. Krishna Reddy, another sponsor, addressing the audience said, “The Indian Association of Southern California has always had great events which create a platform for children to be involved in. I am proud to partner with such an organization.” “I want to take this time to thank everyone who came today. I also want to thank all of the individuals who assisted in putting this event together: participants, sponsors, and volunteers,” said Makwana. The cultural segment kept the audience entertained and showcased talent of local youth. A group of children, came on stage to teach the audience members a few important points about India. The children spoke about the difference between Independence Day and Republic Day. Additionally, the kids told the audience about India’s national symbols, their significance, as well as contributions of some of the many leaders who helped India gain independence. One of the many performances was a narrative titled “Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Dhijo.” This beautifully told story through dance, revolved around how mothers want to keep all of their children because they are a part of the mother and not participate in female infanticide. It voiced the pressures faced from society to have a boy child instead of a girl. The event was enjoyed by all who attended.