ISW Ganeshotsav 2023 - recap

On Sunday September 24th ISW's, Shrewsbury Ganeshotsav Mandal (SGM) team celebrated Ganesh Festival with lots of enthusiasm and vigor, for the twelfth year in a row. Despite the inconvenience of weather conditions the team still executed the event as planned and with a lot of zeal and "जोश" as always.

This year's festival at ISW had many significant highlights. Prior to the event, a ganesh idol making workshop was held where almost 25 to 30 participants learnt and made ganesh idols from clay. The 3D model generated ganesh idol was made especially for the event day pooja by volunteers of the SGM team. The theme of the event for this year was Social Media. So in conjunction with the theme, the team had made a beautiful backdrop of various social media platforms and today's ways of communication in picture form. The pictures were digitally drawn taking inspiration from famous Marathi artist/cartoonist Mr. S. D. Phadnis. He is known for his captionless and colorful cartoons, which mainly featured on magazine covers. As kids back home in India, we all grew up appreciating and enjoying his creations. Hence this decoration was our tribute to this great Marathi artist.

The event started with Ganapati procession (miravnook) in the premises of ISW and was followed by pooja and sacred hymns chanting (aarti). This year's pooja was performed by the parents of Mr. Ashish Cowlagi (past president of ISW). Scrumptious prasad (autnethis maharastrain modak delicacy and shira) was served. Promptly the entertainment program based on the same social media theme started and the hall was filled with claps and foot tappings. Live dances, skits and songs intertwined with reels on screen, showcased today's life, where social media is prevalent in our day to day. The intertwining was important to highlight the balance we all need to achieve, a key message of the program.

The third highlight of the event was the Dhol-Tasha. The team played the instruments (specially ordered from India) in a procession with many others dancing and rejoicing to the rhythm. The air was filled with energy and a lot of enthusiasm like the festival back in India. From old generation to young kids everyone was enjoying the music and participated in the celebration fever whole heartedly.

All in all it was a very colorful celebration with pooja, prasad, entertainment program, decorations and food, in the grandeur of the newly renovated India Center. Everyone who attended the program enjoyed it thoroughly.

The event ended with a delicious authentic dinner of Shrikhand poori, batata wada among other dishes. Volunteers and the SGM team planned the event for months and its fruitful completion left everyone satisfied and content.

SGM team

Spirit of Shrewsbury Talent Show, Float  & Parade Sept 23 & 24, 2023

Talent Show pictures

Float & Parade  Pictures

Celebration for 60 years of completion of ISW’s participation at spirit of Shrewsbury happened on 24th of September . The new team of Youth, Adult and Dancers participated with Dhol Tasha and lezim . Their energy and enthusiasm was out of mark and they were unstoppable in the inclement weather. The high energy and Spirit of the team to prepare themselves in the short span of time to participate in the town parade was incredible. I want to thank from my heart to all the volunteers who showed up early in the rainy morning to put their hands on deck and make the float look presentable at the parade . I want to finish by saying outstanding team work.
Thank You Anupama Deb Roy

‘We’re here rain or shine’: Spirit of Shrewsbury Parade marches on By Evan Walsh -September 24, 2023 Community Advocate

Consistent rain couldn’t stop the Spirit of Shrewsbury Parade on Sunday afternoon. Crowds of rain-soaked individuals from over 25 local organizations marched through the center of Shrewsbury. Despite the downpours, hearty townsfolk lined the streets to show their support.

This year, the India Society of Worcester designed the first-place float. The float included balloons to celebrate the society’s 60th anniversary, as well as miniature models of the organization’s new and old buildings.

“The cardboard – it’s all eco-friendly. I used cardboard, tape, no plastic. I made it part by part, it took me – to complete both the models – about three weeks. I built it, I painted it, and then I did the small doors,” said Anupama Debroy, who was instrumental in the float’s creation.

The India Society of Worcester’s float was at the front of the parade; the group danced and played music for the entire 1.1-mile parade route – all in the pouring rain. “I’m excited. Everyone is so enthusiastic – it’s raining, but everyone is dancing, everyone is doing their work. Everybody here is working hard to make it possible,” Debroy said.

Other local organizations made appearances, including Central One Federal Credit Union, Clinton Savings Bank, several Girl Scout troops, youth lacrosse organizations, and Saint John’s High School, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary.

The parade also featured local figures like Spirit of Shrewsbury Grand Marshal Missy Hollenback. Hollenback – per her request – drove in an electric vehicle throughout the parade.

The Shrewsbury High School Band also joined in the fun. With rain being blown in their faces, band members valiantly marched forward, playing upbeat music to energize the crowd.

“It’s really important [to be here]. The community is a big part of our program, and we feel like our participation plays an important role in the community’s events. We’re here rain or shine and we’re happy to be doing so,” said Band Director Caryn Wardwell.

ISW Garba is back October 13 & 14

• OCTOBER 13, 7 PM  ISW Garba JHANKAR LIVE SINGING

• OCTOBER 14, 7 PM ISW Garba Dhamaka with DJ Sidd

VENUE : ST GEORGE ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL,
30 ANNA ST, WORCESTER , MA
Become a ISW member

• Tickets for Family & Life Members : $10 per person, per day
• No combination tickets or early bird tickets
• only one time login is allowed for tickets, so buy your group ticket in one purchase, multiple logins with same email ids will not be allowed by system
• max 10 tickets per member, become a ISW member
• Will stop member sales at noon on day of event
• Non-payment within 15 mins will automatically cancel registration
• Non-members/ At the door : $20
• Please buy ticket for children 5 and over, and adults
• Children under 5 are free
• Dandiyas for purchase in cash $5 to $10
• Food, Jewelry/clothing & Diwali item vendors on site

Shrewsbury's Got Talent  September 23rd, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Oak Middle School, Shrewsbury

Once again, ISW will be hosting the annual Shrewsbury's Got Talent competition as part of the Spirit of Shrewsbury festivities. Sign up to perform by September 20th. 

On Sunday Sep 24th, on Municipal Ave. Parade starts at 1pm

ISW Symphony Dhol-Tasha-Lezim participating in Spirit of Shewsbury parade

 CANCELLED due to RAIN

ISW Symphony Dhol-Tasha-Lezim participating in Northboro Applefest parade September 10, Sunday 2 pm

The Northborough Applefest is an annual event that takes place in Northborough, Massachusetts. It typically features a variety of activities, entertainment, food vendors, and a parade.

ISW Symphony Dhol Tasha Lezim will be participating in the parade this year! This promises to add a lively and cultural element to the festivities. Please join us at the event to enjoy the spectacular performance and cheer the ISW team!

Please see details at http://www.northboroughapplefest.com/

ISW Krishna Janmashtami is at capacity, CLOSED. If you registered prior to 8-20-2023, and are unable to come, please let ISW know. so others can join.

11 am to 3.00 PM EST Sunday
Prayers & Aarti
Dahi Haandi
Kids Fashion Show (prizes for best Krishna & Radha)
Lunch Prashad

All welcome
Sponsors: Suresh and Meera Gupta
For RSVP and any questions contact
geetanjali.virmani@gmail.com. Chair, ISW Religious Committee

by Kirti Nagpal

Synopsis Humrahi Program 8/26/23

It was a great turnout at the Humrahi program today . We started the day with line dancing . Mr Narayan Sharma who wears many different hats was the dance teacher today . He taught us this elegant dance in very simple and easy to understand steps. Once everyone got the rhythm in place ,they all were dancing like a pro in no time. Cupid shuffle is the ideal song to enjoy line dance.

Then came our Manoranjan Karoake program. It’s one of the best elements of Humrahi where we get to listen to beautiful songs through karaoke.The audience is also actively participating and singing along.I would though like to mention our 2 members Trupti ji and Pushpa ji who are amazing singers. We were left spell bound when Pushpa ji sang a Ghulam Ali ghazal rendition and Trupti ji sang “lag ja Gale ”.

Thanks again to everyone who came and enjoyed the program.

by Rajesh Khare

The India Society of Worcester (ISW) joins the world in celebrating the remarkable success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission's lunar landing. The ISW, a prominent cultural and social organization representing the Indian community in Worcester, extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the entire team behind this monumental achievement.

Chandrayaan-3's successful landing on the lunar surface marks a proud moment not only for India but also for the global Indian diaspora. The mission's resounding success demonstrates the exceptional talent, dedication, and scientific prowess of Indian scientists, engineers, and researchers.

The successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 is a source of immense pride for all of us in Worcester and beyond. This achievement serves as a testament to India's capability to excel in cutting-edge scientific endeavors. Our hearts swell with pride as we witness the legacy of Indian innovation and determination continue to reach new heights.

The Chandrayaan-3 mission holds a special place in the hearts of many Indians residing in Worcester and the surrounding regions. The mission's focus on lunar exploration and discovery aligns with the spirit of curiosity and exploration that the Indian community holds dear.

Chandrayaan-3's journey to the Moon and its triumphant landing have captured the imagination of people from all walks of life, igniting a renewed sense of wonder and curiosity about the cosmos. As the lander and rover begin their scientific investigations on the lunar surface, the ISW eagerly anticipates the knowledge and insights that will emerge from this mission.

The success of Chandrayaan-3 is a continuation of India's storied history in space exploration, following in the footsteps of previous missions like Chandrayaan-1 and the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan). These accomplishments serve as an inspiration to the younger generations, encouraging them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

As the India Society of Worcester joins hands with the global community in applauding Chandrayaan-3's success, it also looks forward to the mission's future discoveries and contributions to humanity's understanding of the Moon and its mysteries. The mission's success symbolizes the unyielding spirit of innovation and perseverance that is emblematic of India's journey through the cosmos.

Rajesh Khare is a member  of the India Society of Worcester's Executive Board. 

by Juhie Jain

In an era where technological advancements continue to reshape the boundaries of human exploration, the race to Mars stands as a feasible idea, brimming with potential and offering a compelling return on investment. As the red planet beckons, scientists, engineers, and visionaries alike are united in their pursuit of making this interplanetary journey a reality. This collective effort represents not just a bold endeavor, but a prudent investment of time and resources that could yield substantial benefits for humanity.

Scientific Discovery and Understanding

Mars, our neighboring planet, presents a tantalizing opportunity to unlock the secrets of our universe. Its unique geological features and potential evidence of past water flows offer a window into Mars' history and the potential for extraterrestrial life. By exploring Mars' surface, scientists could gain insights into the planet's climate, geology, and even its potential to sustain human life. Such discoveries could reshape our understanding of planetary evolution, leading to breakthroughs in fields ranging from geology to astrobiology.

Technological Innovation

The pursuit of Mars has historically driven remarkable technological advances, with ripple effects felt across various industries. Developing the means to land, sustain, and return from Mars demands cutting-edge engineering and innovative problem-solving. As history has shown, many technologies initially developed for space exploration have found applications on Earth, improving everyday life. The race to Mars could thus stimulate a wave of technological innovation, creating new opportunities and industries that could fuel economic growth.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The race to Mars captures the imagination of people young and old, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and dreamers. As humans venture beyond our home planet, they become role models and symbols of what humanity can achieve through determination, collaboration, and innovation. This inspiration can catalyze an increased interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, cultivating a workforce capable of tackling the challenges of the future.

Mitigating Planetary Risk

As humanity's reach extends to other celestial bodies, the prospect of establishing a human presence on Mars also serves as an essential step toward mitigating planetary risk. By diversifying our species across multiple planets, we safeguard against potential extinction-level events that could threaten life on Earth. The colonization of Mars could serve as a lifeboat, ensuring the long-term survival of humanity and preserving our collective knowledge and culture.

Global Collaboration

The race to Mars fosters international cooperation, transcending borders and uniting nations in a common endeavor. Collaborative efforts in space exploration have a proven track record, fostering diplomacy and understanding among diverse nations. By pooling resources and expertise, the race to Mars could facilitate not only groundbreaking scientific discoveries but also a more harmonious global community.

In conclusion, the race to Mars is not just a fanciful pursuit but a pragmatic and promising venture. It offers the potential for scientific discovery, technological innovation, and global collaboration on an unprecedented scale. While the challenges are undeniably formidable, the rewards are equally monumental. As we set our sights on the red planet, we embark on a journey that could reshape our understanding of the cosmos, drive innovation, inspire generations, and ensure the long-term survival of humanity. The race to Mars is not merely a race against time and money; it is an investment in our future as a species.

Juhie Jain is a high school student in Westboro.

 ISW India Day 2023   August 5th, 2023

 2023 Brochure for a complete listing of sponsors, and programs

Survey: we would love to hear back  from you

Link to live video on FB

Link to Videos

Link to volunteer Johanny Pineyro Productions Photos

Link to  Photos

Submitted by Balki Chandrakasan , Chair 2023

Highlights:

• Successful celebration of India's rich culture and heritage.
• Commemoration of ISW's 60th-year anniversary, adding a special milestone to the event.
• Significance of celebrating India's Independence Day highlighted.
• Generous support from EClinical, Trigent, UniBank, DCU, Polyset, Muneeza and WebsterFive 
• A diverse and engaging cultural program lasting for 6 hours.
• A total of 42 vendors offering a variety of products and services, including non-profit organizations.
• A remarkable attendance of 3500 people who visited the event.
• Special guests included Joe Petty, Worcester Mayor, and Tim Murray, former Lieutenant Governor, who attended the event.
• Scholarship awards presented to deserving students, investing in the future.
• Community service award bestowed upon IAGB, recognizing their impactful contributions.
• Recognition and honoring of ISW founders, acknowledging their vision and dedication.
• A free health stop and sports room were featured, engaging many attendees.
• The IYG room offered favorite popcorn and cotton candy treats.
• An art fair showcased an array of captivating artworks.

Cultural Programs: The event featured a dynamic and vibrant cultural program that showcased various aspects of Indian culture, including:

• Traditional dance performances representing different Indian states and styles.
• Musical performances featuring traditional and contemporary Indian music.
• Display of traditional Indian art forms, such as rangoli and henna.
• Cultural displays highlighting India's history, diversity, and contributions.
• Delicious Indian cuisine, offering a culinary journey through different regions.

Vendor Participation: The event hosted 42 vendors, including a mix of for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations. These vendors provided attendees with an opportunity to explore and purchase a wide range of products and services, including traditional clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, artwork, spices, and more. The inclusion of non-profit vendors offered attendees the chance to support meaningful causes and learn about community initiatives.

Art Fair: The art fair was a visual treat, featuring a diverse collection of captivating artworks. Attendees had the opportunity to admire and appreciate a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, adding to the cultural richness of the event.

Free Health Stop: Attendees had access to a free health stop, providing health-related information, screenings, and resources. This initiative aimed to promote wellness and raise awareness about important health topics.

Sports Room: The sports room provided a space for attendees to engage in various sports such as chess , Carom and card games 

IYG Room (Popcorn and Cotton Candy): The IYG  room was a favorite among many attendees, offering delicious popcorn and cotton candy treats. This delightful addition added a touch of nostalgia and enjoyment to the event.

Attendance: The ISW India Day 2023 celebration was well-attended, with approximately 3500 people visiting the event. This demonstrates the community's strong interest in Indian culture and their eagerness to engage in cultural celebrations.

Distinguished Guests:Notably, the event was graced by the presence of Joe Petty, Worcester Mayor, and Tim Murray, former  Lieutenant Governor. They participated in the celebration and read the proclamation declaring August 5th as India Day.

Overall, the ISW India Day 2023 celebration was a resounding success, fostering cultural exchange, promoting understanding, and creating a memorable experience for all attendees. The diverse offerings, including the engaging art fair, further enriched the event, providing an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the beauty of various artistic expressions. Such events play a crucial role in celebrating diversity and strengthening community bonds.

Balki Chandrakasan 
India Day-Chair 

Feedback from Bobkat (Balloon vendor).
My wife Kathy and I wanted to let you know what a wonderful day we had during India Day for the India Society of Worcester. The Indian community in around the Worcester area has long been a rewarding source of employment for us. We saw India Day as an opportunity to give back and to share what we do with a broader number of people. While I performed a little magic for visitors to our table, my wife was delighted to create over 250 free balloon animals for them and their children. Another blessing was the large number of grateful past clients who visited and reconnected that afternoon.