Shrewsbury, MA — On Saturday, May 31, 2025, the India Center in Shrewsbury was the site of a heartwarming community gathering as members of the India Society of Worcester (ISW), along with Rajesh and Kavita Dharampuriya and family, celebrated the grand inauguration of a beautifully constructed gazebo.
Despite the morning’s rain, the skies cleared just in time for the 10:00 AM ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially opened the gazebo for public use. The gazebo, generously donated by the Dharampuriya family, now stands in the recreation area of the India Center, which also features pickleball court, a children’s playground, and a mural by artist Suchitra Shinde. The structure, thoughtfully designed as a space for connection, reflection, and celebration, stands as a testament to the family’s commitment to fostering togetherness and cultural unity. Rajesh Dharampuriya shared gratitude to everyone who joined the occasion and expressed hope that the gazebo would become a vibrant space for generations to come.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ashish Cowlagi, former President of ISW, noted, “Our ISW sports team has over 500 active members who enjoy the India Center’s growing recreation facilities. This gazebo is a wonderful addition that enhances our ability to bring people together for events, relaxation, and shared moments.”
Immediately following the inauguration, gazebo’s first official event was a Havan ceremony organized by the ISW Religious Committee to bless and honor newly graduated students—a meaningful start to the structure’s intended purpose as a space for community celebration and reflection.
Guests enjoyed light refreshments following the ceremony. ISW President Prof. Jagan Srinivasan thanked all attendees and volunteers, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the collective effort to make the event a memorable success.
A special thank you goes to Carolyn Passey, Usha Verma, and Geena Virmani for their valuable support in helping bring this celebration to life.
For more information, visit https://www.iswonline.org/
- Suchitra Shinde
