by Dhruv Jagan

India Youth group (IYG) organized a new series called Youth Empowering Youth to engage middle and high schoolers in the community about different aspects of college applications.

The first event in this series took place on December 16th, 2023 at India Center. The panel discussion was entitled “ Preparing Ahead: A roadmap to land the right college”. The panel included five students at various stages in their collegiate career. Aryan Kale, Junior, Northeastern university, Anika Nath, Freshman, MIT, Swara Gurav, Freshman, Suffolk University, Dhriti Aiylam, Northeastern University and Arnav Mankad, Boston University shared their insights into the college application process.

Topics discussed by the panel ranged from SAT and ACT test-taking, strategies, requirements, and the importance of extracurriculars to land your top college. For example, they shared what they think is a reasonable time to start thinking about college, as well as how many clubs and activities that were offered at their school helped them decide their major.

Through these discussions, a general consensus arose: Start thinking about college during the beginning of your junior year, and try and experiment with many clubs at school to see which ones interest you. The panelists emphasized that doing something that is unique sets you apart from others. Additionally, how you display your dedication towards your courses and extracurricular activities will help you get a step closer to your dream college. In the Q&A session, both parents and kids got involved and learnt from the panelists tips and tricks to achieve admission into the college of your choice.

ISW Symphony's  Dhol Tasha team conducted another successful Dhol-Tasha-Lezim Workshop "DTL Academy" on Friday.

Attendees included long-time ISW supporters, ISW school parents and net new members spanning ages 5 to seniors from diverse regions of India. The beats are truly bringing the community together!

Instructors: Smita Manjrekar, Yash Naik, Sanket Gurao, Rajesh Khare

Organizers: Sarita Deshpande, Sanket Gurao, Sakshi Gurao, Ashok Kale, and Rajesh Khare.

Track your volunteer hours

Scroll down to see the 2022 PVSA winners

Thank you for your volunteer hours.

We hope to track the hours to recognize the amazing volunteers who contribute to India Society of Worcester

Try and fill it at the end of each quarter in 2023

Additionally, if you want, you can allow ISW to share your info to be considered for the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA). The PVSA recognizes incredible individuals who are committed to a high level of volunteer and service with a PVSA medal and a letter from the White House. 

To be eligible for President’s Volunteer Service Award, one has to be a US Citizen or permanent resident.

If volunteers have volunteered for other organizations that do not have this PVSA program, we can combine it , depending on verification, as long as there is no duplication.

Hours Required to Earn Awards in Each Age Group

Age Group                        Bronze                 Silver                                          Gold         

Kids (5–10 years old)     26–49 hours      50–74 hours                              75+ hours 

Teens (11–15)                 50–74 hours       75–99 hours                           100+ hours 

Young Adults (16–25) 100–174 hours 175–249 hours                        250+ hours

Adults (26+)                    100–249 hours 250–499 hours                      500+ hours 

Teens (11- 15)  Gold 
Aadi Dixit
Aditi Jayendran
Arush Jagan
Dhruv Jagan
Mahati Jayendran
Pradnya Cowlagi
Tanushree Nekenti

Teen  Bronze 
Ayan Mishra 

Young Adults (16 -25) Gold
Maurya Virmani 
Anand Chintapalli

Young Adults Bronze
Prachet Mahawar

Adults 
Priya Vaidya   (Bronze)
Geetanjali Virmani (Silver)

by Kirti Nagpal

The ISW Annual Musical event was an unforgettable evening of captivating performances and melodious music that left the audience mesmerized and spellbound. The event commenced with an open mike where our talented Golden singers Raju Alagawadi, Rajay Goyal and Trupti from Humrahee took the stage. They gave us some nostalgic soft music from yesteryears. The reins of our musical journey were then taken over by the star singers of the evening: Sarita Deshpande, Kaizad Patel and Vijay Parmar sans Manisha, as she unfortunately came down with laryngitis. All three of the singers were just exceptional. Kaizad Patel’s vocal control and phrasing and dynamics while singing Kishore Kumar songs was extraordinary!!!! Sarita Deshpande and Vijay Parmar have a way of making every song their own. They add a personal touch and make the song unique. They exhibited amazing musical camaraderie with their duets!!!!

The group’s medley performance was enchanting and captivating. The audience rose to their feet, clapping and cheering, fully immersed in the magical atmosphere that had been created. Overall, the ISW annual Musical event was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all those who attended. Catch the action on ISW Facebook.

Manisha Parmar ,Vijay Parmar and Kaizad Patel are part of Boston Dhamaka. This group is comprised of talented Bollywood singers dedicated to delivering top-notch live performances that transport audiences to the heart of Bollywood. Check out Boston Dhamaka on Facebook

प्यार के पल ! प्यार के दो चार पल कितने सुंदर कितने निर्मल प्यार के दो चार पल । डूब के सागर में कोई जैसे मोती ढूँढ़ के लाए, या फिर नभ के तारों में जैसे कोई मुस्काए, अंधकार में ज्योति दिए की जैसे हो उज्जवल , प्यार के दो चार पल। पावन यह रूप प्रकृति का छू लेता  मन अंतर, दामन में खुशबू भर जाए हर्षित हो मन अक्सर, आजीवन बाँधे रहे हमें यह स्नेह सूत्र कोमल, प्यार के दो चार पल। इन्द्र धनुष के रंगो जैसा अद्भुत प्यारा वो नज़ारा, मादक ,मधुर, प्रगाढ़ बनें क्षण भर का साथ हमारा, सदियाँ साथ गुज़रने का एहसास रहे हर पल प्यार के दो चार पल कितने सुंदर कितने निर्मल प्यार के दो चार पल !

Moments of love! By Asha Singh A few moments of love, be how beautiful and pure. As if someone dives, search and find precious pearls in the deep sea. As if, someone smiles among the stars in the sky. As if, those few moments of love get brightened with light. As if, the pure form of nature touches the soul, the fragrance fills the heart, Often makes one happy, may this thread of love, Keep us bound, throughout the life, Through those few moments of love.  As if the love be comparable to the colors of the rainbow, And all the moments of our company, be intoxicating, sweet, and intense. Give the feeling as if, we are together for centuries. How beautiful, and how pure be those moments of love!

by Rajesh Khare 

In a world dominated by technology and screens, it's refreshing to see children engaging in hands-on activities that stimulate creativity, teamwork, and cultural awareness. The “Diwali Killa” activity at the Cultural and Language at School of the India Society of Worcester (ISW) has been a shining example of this. The tradition of building Diwali Killa is especially popular in Maharashtra, where it has been a cherished part of the festival for generations in honor of Shivaji Maharaj, the prominent Indian warrior king and the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India in the 17th century.

The term "killa" refers to a fort in Marathi, one of the prominent languages spoken in the Indian state of Maharashtra. These forts, with their formidable walls and strategic positioning, played a pivotal role in India's history. Every Diwali, the Killa activity is a way to introduce children to the rich cultural heritage of India, specifically through the lens of its historical architecture.

Participants in the Killa activity are given a set of basic materials including soil, bricks, water, recycled plastic etc.. Armed with these supplies and guided by their imaginations, the children set out to recreate the essence of a traditional Indian fort. The creativity and attention to detail exhibited by the young builders are truly remarkable.

Building a Killa requires teamwork and problem-solving skills. Children work together, assigning tasks, sharing ideas, and collaborating to bring their vision to life. This effort not only enhances their social skills but also fosters a sense of collaboration and mutual respect. Participants also learn about architectural principles, historical significance, and the engineering challenges faced by the builders of the actual forts.

By combining education with play, this initiative inspired by their cultural roots transcends borders, fosters a sense of unity, understanding, and pride among the participants. As an example of community-driven cultural enrichment, the Killa building activity stands as a testament to the positive impact that such initiatives can have on the lives of young individuals.

Diwali is the festival of lights.  In India, it is also a festival of sharing the joyous spirit, celebrating with our friends and extended families.  The India Society has been sharing the Diwali spirit with our wider greater Worcester community for the last 8 years with a unique Diwali celebration at the beautiful Worcester Art Museum.

This Sunday, the museum was buzzing with activity, welcoming a record crowd for this year’s Diwali at WAM.

Pictures on Facebook Here

India Society President Puneet Kohli and past president Barin Bando kicked off the ceremony with a traditional lighting of the lamp in the museum’s historic Renaissance court.  This was followed by carefully curated cultural program from our leading dance and music schools that showcased the many classical and folk dances of India including Kathak, Kuchiudi, Baratanatyam and Odissi. The program also introduced the audience to Indian classical music performances in both the Hindustani and Carnatic styles.  

“An abundance of energy, enough to charge the whole block, families and couples alike engage and delight in the show of our celebration!” said an enthusiastic visitor.

The finale was a procession of dhol, tasha and lejhim by ISW’s own  team which left the audience  clapping, dancing and wanting more.

There was of course a lot more activity inside all parts of the museum.

Children could enjoy many activities including about India at Carolyn Passey's elaborate interactive activity station, learning Chess with  volunteers from ISW Sports team,  making sand art rangolis,  Madhubani art coasters, a  giant Lego lantern and more.  Many children and some adults with gleaming smiles proudly displayed their hands with intricate Henna tattoos.  

A special thanks to Troy Thompson of Troy B Thompson photography and the founder of www.noevilproject.org  who kindly captured and shared many memorable pictures of this event.  Watch for more pictures from Troy here soon.   

Indian artists  Sushmita Bando, Sunanda Sahay, Madhu Thube, Neha  Ujlayan and Rishi Gandhi showcased their original art in various forms for museum patrons.  

Finally – the museum café, in partnership with Bawarchi of Framingham, served delectable Indian fare.

“ISW now has many Diwali programs, but this one is my personal favorite.” said event chair Arathi Cowlagi. “It allows us to showcase Indian art in all its glory and to bring the light of Diwali to our whole community! What a perfect way to start the holiday season!”

Dhol-Tasha-Lezim on Ice
ISW Symphony at Worcester Railers

by Rajesh Khare

Thanks to ISW veteran Mr. Satya Mitra, the ISW Symphony Dhol-Tasha-Lezim team received a unique invitation to perform at the intermission of the Worcester Railers Ice Hockey game at DCU Center!

It was challenging for the team on multiple fronts. ISW Symphony organizers were short-staffed due to family situations and there was not much time for practice. This was going to be a new setting for the group and the audience was expected to be the broader community not familiar with Indian culture. The team was going to have to walk on ice with the instruments to reach the center and was given only 5 minutes to perform.

But the group members stepped up like never before! The Dhol-Tasha performers came up with a new compact sequence of beats that appealed to the crowd and showcased the Indian culture. They started with the “We will, we will, rock you” beat familiar to the sports crowd, evolved into the traditional Marathi Lezim beat, then played the classic Punjabi Dhol beats and ended with the thunderous signature beats of the Symphony team. The Lezim team had its own challenges. They had to come up with matching dance steps in a short timeframe and minimal practice sessions. And they did such a fabulous job that the Railers mascot also joined in with them!

Performance Team Roster:

• Dhol: Abhijeet Kaulgud, Rajesh Khare, Ranjit Mulay, Atharva Kamble, Prasanna Pawar
• Tasha: Arvind Kinhikar, Aditya Nene
• Zanja: Sharat Amin
• Tol: Sanket Gurao
• Lezim: Anjali Kinhikar, Anuradha Bhogle, Sarita Deshpande, Madhu Thube, Arti Khare, Saanvi Khare
• Abdagiri: Harsh Deshpande, Shaarav Khare

Team members in their own words:

Arvind Kinhikar:

Big thanks to ISW for creating this today’s unique opportunity and giving us this great platform “Symphony” to perform!  We are blessed with excellent leadership team and awesome team members loving music!  Enjoyed working with each team member!  Superb Tasha by Aditya!  Ranjit and Atharva brought a synchronized revolving dance while playing big dhol that to balancing on ice! great dance by Sharatji while playing Janz bringing huge energy, very synchronized rhythm dhol beats by Abhi, Ranjit, Rajesh, Atharva and Prasanna ,  very refreshing beats by Sanket who performed on a “Tol”…..and hats off to Lezim team (Anjali, Anu, Sarita, Madhu, Arti and Saanvi) who got ready on a very short notice. Saying here unique opportunity as we were pressure tested to perform in a shortest performance period of 4-5min against 20-30min that we typically perform! And to perform on ice!

Sharat Amin:

Loved it today with you all. Almost broke the ice in DCU center with our performance. It's a pleasure to be a part of this talented ISW Symphony team. Also welcome our new and young talented members. You all rock.

Ranjit Mulay:

This definitely was one of my favorite DTL experiences… thanks for the teamwork .. Arvind thanks for your guidance to get all the beats setup in the tight time frame… also want to thank our latest members Atharva and Aditya .. looking forward to learn more new beats from you both….

Prasanna Pawar:

So grateful to be part of Symphony DTL team. It was mesmerizing experience…

Abhijeet Kaulgud:

Tremendous experience. Thanks everyone as always

Aditya Nene:

Glad to be a part of symphony!

Sarita Deshpande:

Great teamwork by our Symphony DTL team!! It was fantastic experience to perform on the rink!!

Rajesh Khare:

What a wonderful experience for the Dhol-Tasha-Lezim team to represent ISW at the Worcester Railers game at DCU Center! Kudos to our fearless leaders Sanket Gurao, Arvind Kinhikar and Anjali Kinhikar and the entire team

On October 10th, ISW PEN had the opportunity to host the first ever Asian Business Pitch Contest in collaboration with ElevAsian at the India Center. The idea was to bring in early-stage entrepreneurs from near and far and pitch their ideas in 4 minutes, face questions for 4 minutes and convince the panel of judges. The Contest was set up in 2 tranches - New Business and Existing Businesses with 11 contestants in the first and 4 in the second category. 

The audience packed the ISW India center with folks networking both before and after the pitch contest. Contestants with existing businesses or products had an opportunity to showcase their products or services in an exhibitor space during the evening.

Greg Stoller and Andrew Goldberg from ElevAsian did an excellent job of running the contest and moderating the Q&A sessions. The contestants ranged from 17-year-old high school students to adults putting their best foot forward. The quality of the pitches were remarkable and matched up with seasoned business professionals.

The final winners of the new business track were:

• First Place $1000 prize: Julie Jain and Jai Khanna (1)
• Second Place $750 prize: Pranav Ramaswamy (2)
• Third Place $500 prize: Kashvi Vishal (3)
• The Existing Business Track winner of the $750 prize was Pinaki Majhi
• The Audience Favorite prize of $250 was split between Anjana Sudhir and Kashvi Vishal.

The judges for the event were:

• Ms. Geetha Sreedhar, Founder Tarmika (acquired by Applied Systems) and TIE Boston Board Member
• Mr. Sushil Tuli, Chairman, CEO & Founder Leader Bank; Director, Federal Reserve Bank, Boston
• Mr. Subramaniam “A.V.” Aiylam, Founder and owner, Spyglass Brewing; Co-founder CenteredLogic, acquired by Enea in 2015.

The entire event was live cast on Facebook and those who could not attend can view it at these links:

Asian Business Pitch Contest Part 1.

Asian Business Pitch Contest Part 2.

After the event, Greg shared his sentiments with ISW. "I was very impressed how much pride there is in maintaining the Indian culture and how that sentiment was seamlessly integrated into so many different ideas that were presented. Finally, it was wonderful to see such a wide range of ages, and I truly wish everyone the best of luck with either existing businesses or their new ventures."

Andy, the founder of ElevAsian was also very appreciative of the teamwork he experienced with the ISW team "...sometimes I forgot that the ISW team have demanding full time jobs. There were plenty of days when I emailed a couple of dozen times and the ISW team responded to many of them immediately and all of them in a timely fashion. It was an absolute pleasure to work with Kelly, Ragoo, Raj, and Ashish. I felt like we had an engaged partner who was invested in producing a successful pitch contest as we were. The pitch contest felt like a family occasion. The pride and joy of the Asian community was evident throughout the evening".

We look forward to the possibility of making this a regular event at ISW that fosters multiple entrepreneurs in the Central Mass area.

   

UPDATE

Hosted by the India Society of Worcester, GFWC Northboro Junior Woman's Club, and the Northborough Senior Center, the fun activities was kicked off with Laughing Yoga,  by Latha Radhakrishnan   The attendees enjoyed by being draped in colorful sarees by Shaila Bhatia, and Latha, Rangoli art displayed by  Neeta Karanjikar and Beena Krishnan, and a delightful dance by Sharada Cintakindi Dance troupe, residents of Northboro  It ended with Sweets and  Samosa from Kumars plus hot cider from Vickie at the Senior Center. Thakns to Linda  DiMare for supporting diversity in the community

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 7TH 4:30 PM AT THE NORTHBOROUGH SENIOR CENTER

Do come. This is one of our ISW mini Diwali celebration in the community. All are welcome, register at 508-393-5035

Hosted by the India Society of Worcester, GFWC Northboro Junior Woman's Club, and the Northborough Senior Center

• How to Drape a Sari
• Rangoli Art Demonstration
• Dancing and Singing Presentation
• Laughing Yoga
• Light Refreshments

Thanks to Pravin Trivedi from Humrahee for starting this collaboration with Northborough Senior Center.