By NEHA SARIN
ARTESIA, CA - The Federation of Indian–American Community of Southern California celebrated India’s Republic Day at the Himalayan Cuisine here on Jan 27. Every year, India’s Republic Day is celebrated by the community with pride and patriotism. Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia, who was among the invited dignitaries,
ARTESIA, CA - The Federation of Indian–American Community of Southern California celebrated India’s Republic Day at the Himalayan Cuisine here on Jan 27. Every year, India’s Republic Day is celebrated by the community with pride and patriotism. Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia, who was among the invited dignitaries,
addressing the gathering said, “I want to take a moment on behalf of the state assembly to appreciate the people who helped put together a great celebration. The cultural tapestry where we all are American, where we all have fought for our freedom, where we still celebrate our traditions is really great.’’ She presented awards of recognition to FICSC officials for their dedicated service to the Indian- American community. Major (Retd) Gurjeet Singh gave a heartwarming speech about his experiences in the Indian Army. He spoke about how Indian soldiers give their lives to protect civilians and how their sacrifices are taken for granted and urged everyone to respect what the soldiers do for the country. The gathering was also briefly addressed by former Cypress Mayor Prakash Narain and Deepak Jhaveri, representing Cerritos Councilman Naresh Solanki.
Earlier, the dignitaries and FICSC officials lighted the lamp followed by the singing of the American and India National Anthems. Chairman Dilip Butani and President Amrit Bhandari welcomed the guests after which Artesia Mayor Sally Flowers took to the stage and said it was really great seeing everyone gathered together to celebrate the people, culture, colorful traditions of India and the brilliant accomplishments of the Indian community.
A few more speeches were made focusing on the significance of Republic Day, the day when the Constitution of India came into effect on January 26, 1950. The evening took a fun turn with some colorful dances by performers of all ages who participated in the cultural program featuring an array of performances organized by Kalaimamani Dr. Sinduri, founder and director of Savithri Arts Academy, Smita Das and Charu Shivakumar of Shristhi School of Performing Arts. A dance performance with a patriotic theme by ELIKE Performing Arts group, choreographed by Rachana Srivastav was also appreciated by the audiences. The grand finale was from the Mumbai Madness Group. The evening wrapped up with a scrumptious dinner which the guests enjoyed.
Earlier, the dignitaries and FICSC officials lighted the lamp followed by the singing of the American and India National Anthems. Chairman Dilip Butani and President Amrit Bhandari welcomed the guests after which Artesia Mayor Sally Flowers took to the stage and said it was really great seeing everyone gathered together to celebrate the people, culture, colorful traditions of India and the brilliant accomplishments of the Indian community.
A few more speeches were made focusing on the significance of Republic Day, the day when the Constitution of India came into effect on January 26, 1950. The evening took a fun turn with some colorful dances by performers of all ages who participated in the cultural program featuring an array of performances organized by Kalaimamani Dr. Sinduri, founder and director of Savithri Arts Academy, Smita Das and Charu Shivakumar of Shristhi School of Performing Arts. A dance performance with a patriotic theme by ELIKE Performing Arts group, choreographed by Rachana Srivastav was also appreciated by the audiences. The grand finale was from the Mumbai Madness Group. The evening wrapped up with a scrumptious dinner which the guests enjoyed.