- By  Kirti Nagpal

Synopsis for the Cybersecurity Talk by Vikram Venkatasubramanian
 (IIT Madras, MBA Cornell)
 CEO and Founder, Nandi Security

We had the pleasure of hosting Vikram Venkatasubramanian for an informative and insightful session on digital hygiene.

Vikram helped us identify the many threats that lurk around us as we browse online from the comfort of our homes. Most of us are often unaware of the dangers and security breaches we expose ourselves to the moment we click on a malicious link or share personal information. Some of these security or data breaches may even fall under what is considered legally accepted data collection, making them harder to recognize.

He emphasized that simple steps—such as practicing good password hygiene and using password managers—are easy yet highly effective measures. Avoiding the sharing or posting of excessive personal and family details on social media was also highlighted as a prudent and necessary precaution.

 In the past, we protected our homes with strong locks and sometimes even a guard at the front gate. Today, however, the threats are largely digital. Thieves and criminals can now carry out major heists while sitting miles away in a different country. To combat these evolving threats, we need specialists and experts like Vikram, who understand the landscape and can guide us through it.

 Vikram is willing to go into greater detail on practical steps we can implement to make ourselves less susceptible targets in the digital world .

 - By Rajesh Khare

The 5th Annual Dhol-Tasha-Lezim (DTL) Training Workshop by the India Society of Worcester (ISW) was a high-energy gathering that brought together enthusiasts of traditional folk rhythms for a day of learning, practice, and community bonding.

Participants across age groups joined with great enthusiasm to build their skills, discipline, and teamwork in Dhol, Tasha, and Lezim. The workshop focused not only on technique and synchronization, but also on preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage behind these traditional art forms.

A special thanks to our outstanding volunteer trainers who generously shared their time and expertise:

* Shilpa Kulkarni: the OG of Lezim, who guided participants through precision, footwork, and formations

* Arvind Kinhikar: Master of Tasha, who emphasized rhythm control and ensemble coordination

* Raghavendra Cowlagi: our rising Dhol star, who energized the group with powerful beats and structured practice drills

We extend sincere appreciation to Sakshi Gurao (lead), Sarita Deshpande, Sanket Gurao and Rajesh Khare for coordinating and ensuring the workshop ran smoothly from planning to execution.

With growing participation each year, the DTL workshop continues to strengthen community connections while nurturing the next generation of performers. We look forward to seeing these rhythms come alive at upcoming ISW events and performances.

---submitted by Jay Pathak

On January 31st, ISW Chess club organized the very first face to face game night of 2026. Despite of bitter cold, many chess enthusiasts came out to play. The event started at 4 pm and ended at 6 pm. Light refreshment was made available by Telugu group. If you were in the attendance, we thank you for the support. If not, plan to join us in future game nights. Our next game night is scheduled for February 28th, which is the last Saturday of the month.

--Radhika Chintapalli & Jay Pathak

♟️ Join the ISW Chess Club! ♟️

We believe that the Chess has been originated in India during the Gupta Empire around the 6th century CE. It began as a Kingdom's strategic game called Chaturanga.

Looking for a fun and engaging way to spend your Saturday afternoons? The ISW Chess Club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels! Whether you're a seasoned grandmaster or just learning the ropes, this is the perfect casual, relaxed environment to enjoy a game of chess, make social connections, sharpen your thinking power.

Eventually we might plan some friendly tournaments and prizes too.

When:
We meet on the last Saturday of every month. It is a free, casual, open atmosphere where you would feel relaxed and play with a friend or make new friends.
All Ages & Levels: Everyone is welcome, from kids to adults, beginners to advanced players.
More Info & Registration

Stay Connected on Whatsapp,
For the latest updates and any potential changes.

Here are some benefits of chess :

Cognitive Benefits:
Improved focus and concentration for extended periods.
Enhanced problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.
Better strategic thinking and foresight (planning several moves ahead).
Memory improvement through pattern recognition and recalling strategies.
 Increased creativity and originality in developing solutions on the board.
Develops critical thinking and objective evaluation of situations.
Boosts IQ and potential academic performance.
Personal and Social Benefits:
Teaches sportsmanship and humility in winning and losing.
Improves patience and the ability to persevere through challenges.
Offers a healthy social pastime for meeting people and building our community.
Reduces stress and promotes mental well-being through engaging the mind.
We look forward to seeing you at the board!   Let the games begin♟️

WEW-Wonderful Energy World

⁃ In the universe that is changing, moving and always expanding ⁃ On the earth that is growing, providing and nurturing

⁃ Thru the 10s and 1000s of possibilities of genetics only one unique WE are existing

⁃ With the generative force a human being that we are fundamentally creating

⁃ For the grounded world of endless possibilities that we are generating

⁃ Let us weave (WEW) together an epitome of energy figures, the wonderful graceful beauties we are here celebrating

As the SUN, the provider of the energies, I would like to thank ISW

As the planet earth, my world I would like to thank my family, my extended family, my WEW team,

As the energy figures that we have joined forces to inspire, support and celebrate,

I thank you all for coming!

- By Prof. Snehlata Kadam

Ekta Dance Academy, in collaboration with the India Society of Worcester, is proud to shine once again at the iconic Boston Celtics TD Garden on Monday, January 26th. 7:00 pm (pregame)

With a dynamic troupe of 30 talented students, we are excited to continue a cherished tradition that was beautifully started by our very own Ragini Seth. This performance celebrates culture, community, and the spirit of Indian dance on a grand stage.

We warmly invite you to be there to support our dancers and enjoy a vibrant, high-energy performance that promises to leave the audience inspired and proud.

Tickets

The ISW Committee on Governance proposes the following amendments to the ISW by laws. These changes will be voted upon by the general body at the next Annual General Body Meeting 

Deletions are noted below in this color and additions to the relevant clauses noted in this color

3.11.1. Members eligible to vote during the Annual General Body Meeting should be current with their membership status on the day of the election AND should have been a member of the Society at least one year 60 days prior to the date of the Annual General Body Meeting.

15.1 This Committee shall be responsible to review the Constitution and By-laws and functioning of the Society at least once a year and endorse them or suggest any amendments for approval by the General Body. In addition, the Committee shall also review any amendments proposed by the Active members according to the Article 3.8 of the ISW Constitution. This Committee shall discuss all proposed Bylaws amendments with the Executive Board prior to presenting to the General Body at least 30 days before the date of the Annual General Body Meeting. This committee shall also serve as a Committee on Grievance for the Society to resolve conflict between the members of the Executive Board and any complaints lodged against the Executive Board by the members of the Society. With a majority vote this Committee shall have authority to call a special General Body meeting to address any specific issue important to the functioning of the Society.

15.2 Composition: There shall be 5 members in this Committee. Chairperson of the Committee, shall be elected during the Annual Meeting every 2 years along with the Elections of Executive Board of the Society.

There shall be 4 other members- 2 from Executive Board – current President and the Vice President, 2 nominated by the Committee on Nomination from the pool of past members of the Executive Board or Executive Committee, Board of Trustees– these two position shall be approved during the Annual Meeting every 2 years along with the Elections of Executive Board of the Society. The candidates for these two positions shall be dues paying members of the India Society of Worcester for at least 4 years and should have served on a past Executive Committee, Executive Board or Board of Trustees.

---submitted by Rajay Goyal

On December 21, 2025, the Indian Society of Worcester (ISW), located in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, hosted an inspiring and transformative program to mark the United Nations–designated World Meditation Day. Coinciding with the winter solstice—the shortest day of the year and a traditional time for introspection—the event offered community members a meaningful opportunity to pause, breathe, and reconnect with their inner selves.

More than fifty participants gathered on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the ISW community hall. The program featured three thoughtfully curated sessions, each showcasing a distinct meditation tradition and approach. The event was warmly opened by Ms. Shiamin Melville and Mr. Rajay Goyal, who welcomed the speakers and attendees and set the tone for an afternoon of mindfulness and reflection.

The first session was led by Ms. Bharti Bhakta, a longtime ISW member. She introduced participants to the eight limbs of Patanjali Yoga, providing a clear and insightful overview of this ancient framework. The session concluded with guided Pranayama breathing exercises and Soham meditation, helping attendees settle into a calm and centered state. The second session featured Mr. Kavishwar Wagholikar and Mr. Manish Shroff from the Art of Living. They shared updates on recent initiatives, including research on intuition development in children and the positive impact of meditation for children with special needs and ADHD. This informative discussion was followed by the practice of Bhastrika Pranayama and a guided meditation, allowing participants to experience the techniques firsthand. The third and final session was conducted by Mr. Devesh Srivastava from Heartfulness Meditation. He began by introducing Dr. Gladys McGarey’s transformative “Five Ls” framework—Living, Loving, Laughing, Laboring, and Listening—as a guide to a meaningful and stress-free life. He then introduced the principles of Heartfulness Meditation and led the group through a deeply calming meditation practice.

Fifteen-minute breaks between sessions provided time for social interaction, questions, and refreshments, including tea and snacks, fostering a sense of community and shared learning. The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Shiamin Melville and Rajay Goyal.

This marked the first time ISW celebrated World Meditation Day, and the enthusiastic response from participants strongly suggests it will become an annual tradition. More than just an event, World Meditation Day at ISW served as a powerful reminder of the role stillness and mindfulness play in nurturing harmony within ourselves and with others. Through inclusive programming and active participation, the ISW community embraced a deeper sense of connection—perfectly timed for the holiday season.

For more info
bhartib127@gmail.com
waghsk@gmail.com
deveshsrivastav@gmail.com
manish_shroffin@yahoo.com

--submitted by Ernst Gulla. Pictures

2025 Christmas Magic Moments at ISW

The 21st Annual India Society of Worcester Christmas celebration was held at the St. Mary's Syrian Orthodox Church Hall / venue on December 6th 2025.Families from various States of India and languages, dressed in Christmas colors in Indian attire, Women in their colorful Saris, Men in cultural garb, kicked off the very first 2025 Christmas season together!

Christmas celebration with the sounds of joyous Christmas Carols sung in various Indian languages rang through the hall and brought the Christmas Spirit. Ms. Rashi Khanna moderated the program and Dr. Stephan Ko , Physician from Mass General Brigham, Prof. of Global Health @BU & former CDC Medical Officer shared the Christmas story & with a personal touch Dr. Jagan Srinivasan, President of ISW along with his wife & daughter cut the first Christmas cake following ISW Christmas tradition & greeted the community.  In the eve of 20 th anniversary of ISW Free Clinic, Dr & Ms. Sahdev Passey , the founders and Pioneers of ISW free Clinic were honored for 1000 Wednesdays of Volunteer services to Families in medical needs.Mr.Balki Ramachandran, VP, ISW, narrated the significant events of ISW in 2025 and challenged people to get involved & encouraged families to Support the ISW

Crisis committee to care for fellow Indians hurting in our neighborhood and to make a difference in the community. Congregational Christmas carols in English were led by Ms. Sharon Sealy along with the Choir leading Telugu special Carols by Mr. Praveen Arupuda group and Hindi and Tamil Carols by Mr. Sudipta Singh with Choir. The ISW voice ensemble bought special carols in English & a Hindi medley with much enthusiasm and that bought the Christmas Joy & children danced to the Songs & Music which was enjoyed by Families was the highlight of 2025 Christmas event.

The appearance of Santa Claus brought Cheer and Joy to the children as they received Christmas presents lovingly donated and wrapped by families. 

Attached is the link of Santa’s pictures for parents to down load for their family memories. ISW thanks many volunteer families that worked hard & shared their love for the community by serving homemade Indian Vegetarian dinner for up to 300 people.

- By Rekha Gupta

The India Society of Worcester (ISW) and the New England Botanic Garden (NEBG) continued their successful partnership for the third year with the vibrant Diwali Lights celebration. The event, held once again at Tower Hill, brought together a wonderful blend of Indian culture, music, food, and community spirit, enchanting visitors of all ages.

"We are fortunate to work with Grace Elton, CEO at NEBG over these past years.  She is forward thinking in forging this equitable partnership with us. Ashish Cowlagi is on their Strategy Committee and Priya Vaidya and myself joined their Board of Trustees. They granted  us their organization membership which enables our ISW members to visit the beautiful garden for free throughout the year, " said Shiamin Melville, longtime ISW Volunteer. (More info on free passes click here)

https://www.iswonline.org/page-18074/13542835

This year’s event was beautifully set against NEBG’s 2025 Night Lights theme, “Dazzling Gardens,” which transformed the garden into a radiant wonderland of light and color. Visitors were treated to spectacular displays that highlighted the magic of nature illuminated by creative light installations, perfectly complementing the festival.

Guests were welcomed with Rangoli by Priya Vaidya, whose intricate designs added a traditional and colorful welcome that set the festive tone for the evening.Carolyn Passey's stunning decorating added an elegant and festive ambiance to the event, with thoughtfully arranged displays that drew many visitors to her Indian cultural display and enhanced the overall celebration.A beautiful Akash Kandil handcrafted by Vijayendra Cowlagi added a warm, festive glow to the celebration.SWU’s  Radhika Chintapalli ‘s chess sessions kept everyone entertained and engaged throughout the evening. Our  volunteers -Jay Pathak, Rohan Goyal, Tara Chintapalli, and Ishan Dixit added wonderful energy to the activity.ISW volunteers  Ashish Cowlagi,Anjali Paranjape, Balki Chandrakashan ,Leena  Das, Sangeeta Punjabi, Beena Krishnan,Suchitra Agarwal, Aarti Cowlagi, Kajal Kaushik Dixit and Vinod Gupta  also played a key role in bringing the celebration to life and showed the strong community spirit behind this annual tradition.I was honored to step in as event Chair in Shiamin Ji’s  absence and truly appreciate her trust in me.It has been an enriching experience for me.

Beautiful performances

The ISW Diwali Night 2025 featured an incredible lineup of talented performers and choreographers, including Suharit Ghosh, Rajesh Pai, Sridevi Thirumalai Ekta Jain, Darshana Jani, Kalaimangai Anbalagan, Bhuvana Ganesh, Mona Mitra, Uma Sridharan and Rajay Goyal,who captivated the audience with their outstanding performances.

The ISW Dhol Tasha team, led by Sanket Gurao, was a true highlight of the event! Their vibrant energy brought everyone together and filled the atmosphere with joy. The team included Abhijeet Kaulgu, Anand Desai, Jayant Thube, Madhu Thube, Manoj Gera, Narayan Sharma, Prasanna Pawar, Raghvendra Cowlagi, Sakshi Gurao, Shirish Joshi, Sonia Gera, Yogini Yogesh Lathkar, Mangesh Shinde, Vaijanthi Joshi, Anjali Kanhikar.

Attendees also enjoyed a delicious selection of Indian cuisine prepared by Gourmet India, at the café at Tower Hill. The event was further enriched by vibrant cultural activities and engaging vendors including Neha Ujjain, Rekha Jain, Gavoury Kumar and Meenakshi Krishnamoorthy, creating a lively atmosphere that delighted visitors.Meghana  is an amazing henna artist. Everyone loved her designs and truly enjoyed the henna art experience.Scavenger hunt for Asian plants was fun and educational, encouraging visitors to explore the garden and learn about the diverse flora in a playful, interactive way.

Special thanks to Cassie  and Bailey from NEBG for making the entire experience seamless. Both embraced the festive spirit by proudly wearing traditional Indian dupattas, adding a beautiful touch of cultural celebration. Grace Elton, NEBG’s CEO, continues to inspire through her leadership and dedication to fostering strong community partnerships that promote nature and culture.

We look forward to continuing the partnership between ISW and NEBG. Together, we will continue sharing the beauty of Indian culture and creating memorable celebrations. 

You can find  event photos shared by volunteers here-

https://photos.app.goo.gl/N4higCZy8iAKq5eF8