Helping Hands is a project of the Federation of India Community Associations (FICA). Helping Hands supports South Asians in Cleveland and NE Ohio who are trying to break the cycle of domestic and sexual violence and take back control of their lives. They also provide Services to Seniors such as services and programs to promote health and independence for the elderly, information and referral services for medical, food, transportation, and meal programs.
In addition, the Helping Hands-Aangan initiative aims to engage the 50+ in the community understand issues of importance to them and bring in domain experts to talk about those issues.
After years of Zoom meetings they gathered in person on November 10, 2024 in the Beachwood Community Center.
Helping Hands founders Mona Alag, Dr. Jaya Shah and Dr. Gita Gidwani
MotivAsians for Cleveland is a non-profit organization established to cultivate a vibrant Asian community for Greater Cleveland by promoting the attraction and retention of Asian-American professionals. They hosted their first Taste of Asia gala banquet in the Dolan center of John Carroll University on Saturday November 2, 2024. The evening included Asian food, entertainment, cultural performances, silent auction and more including a performance by Maanasa Humchad and Maitri Radhesh who performed a Bollywood Indian Fusion Dance.
This year, FICA Diwali was celebrated at La Villa Banquet Hall. More than 350 people attended the event, and the highlight of the night was Hollywood/Bollywood star Mr. Omi Vaidya.
Mr. Omi Vaidya
The chief guest for the evening was Maria Stutsman y Marquez who serves as the Associate Dean of Recruitment and Enrollment at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. She was welcomed by FICA president Shekhar Ganore
There were other special guests, cultural programs and entertainment.
ClevelandPeople.com Ambassador Deepa Rao wrote "Diwali or Deepavali is the Hindu Festival of Lights. It symbolizes the spiritual 'victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.' It is a privilege and honor for FICA members to the festival of lights with our honorable mayor of Cleveland Mr. Justin Bibb."
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens hosted a World on Stage Concert event in the Centennial Plaza on Saturday September 7, 2024. It featured acts from 3 continents - the Zumbercani Tamburitza Orchestra from Croatia (Europe), the Black Beanz from Uganda, Tanzania and Congo (Africa) and Cleveland Bollywood from India (Asia).
The India Cultural Garden was very busy on One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. The Indian Garden community participated in the Parade of Flags which had 1500 people from over 53 countries.
India Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags 2024
Then they celebrated in the India Cultural Garden.
You've probably heard about the two astronauts stranded in space. Initially planned for just 8 days, this mission has been delayed by 8 months due to faulty thrusters of Boeing's spacecraft. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson has revealed that Starliner's propulsion system, plagued by thruster malfunctions and helium leaks, posed a great a risk for a crewed return of the spacecraft.
What you might not now is that one of the astronauts is Sunita Lyn who was born in 1965 in Euclid (but grew up in Massachusetts.) Her father, Deepak Pandya, was an Indian-born neuroanatomist from Mehsana district, Gujarat, while her mother, Ursuline Bonnie Pandya (née Zalokar) was a Slovene-American.
She has taken the Slovenian flag, a samosa and Carniolan sausage to space in celebration of her Indian and Slovenian heritage. Her nicknames are Suni in the United States and Soncka in Slovenia.
Williams practices Hinduism. In December 2006, she took a copy of the Bhagavad Gita to the International Space Station. Williams has also visited Slovenia several times. In 2009, the club Slovenian Astronaut (Slovenski astronavt) arranged a memorial room for her in Leše, Tržic?, northwestern Slovenia. Leše was the birthplace of her great-grandmother Marija Bohinjec, born in 1891, who immigrated to the United States as an 11-year-old in 1900 or 1901.
In May 2013, the former President of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, awarded Williams a medal of merit for her contribution to the popularization of science and technology among the Slovenian youth. During her stay in October 2014 she paid a visit to the Astronomical Society Vega in Ljubljana.
Raj Pillai, a leader in the establishment of the India Cultural Garden among other things, sent some additional information.
Raj said that Sunita Williams came to Cleveland in 2007 and met with some of the Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) people. I recognize several in the photo - Venky Venkatesh, Raj Pillai, Harjit and Mona Alag, Paramjit Singh and Anjan Ghose standing behind Sunita.
Sunita Williams and FICA group
This second picture is Sunita signing a poster of a FICA/ICG program called AHIMSA that Mona Alag and Raj Pillai (watching Sunita sign) were working on. They had invited a dance group from Detroit to perform at Tri-C as a fundraiser. The theme was Ahimsa (non-violence), and incorporated historical events from Gandhi's and MLK's lives. Paramjit Singh framed the poster and gave it to Sunita.
Sunita Williams and Raj Pillai
Sunita Williams is confirmed to return to Earth in February 2025. It has been announced that Williams along with astronaut Butch Wilmore will come back using Elon Musk's SpaceX Dragon capsule and Boeing Starliner will return from the International Space Station without the astronauts.
India Independence Day 2024
Independence Day is celebrated annually on August 15 as a public holiday in India commemorating the nation's independence from the United Kingdom on August 15, 1947, the day when the provisions of the Indian Independence Act, which transferred legislative sovereignty to the Indian Constituent Assembly, came into effect.
The Cleveland Indian community gathered in the India Cultural Garden to sing the national anthems and patriotic songs and have a short program.
Cleveland was the proud host of the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games from July 12-21, 2024. A major event of the International Masters Games Association, the Games offer an opportunity to showcase competitive spirit and athletic ability of masters athletes on a global stage. Thousands of athletes from 6 continents (sorry Antarctica), 48 states and more than 70 countries, including India, came to Cleveland in a celebration of health, vitality, friendship and an active lifestyle at any age.
Choolaah Bowls - new Indian food option for Cleveland Guardians games
One of the new items available for the 2024 season at Progressive Field at Cleveland Guardians games is a Choolaah Bowl.
We spoke with Progressive Field Executive Chef Vishwatej Nath who said the Indian BBQ concept Choolaah features their signature bowl served on a bed of fragrant basmati rice with a choice of spiced chicken or paneer (Indian-style cottage cheese) and a choice of tikka masala sauce or yellow lentil dal. It will be available on the concourse near first base. The bowl has a slight zing but nothing too spicy. Watch the video.
FICA India Republic Day 2024 Celebration
FICA is an organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Asian Indian Community in Northeast Ohio. They hosted a celebration of India's 75th Republic Day at Lotus Banquets with cultural performances, awards, dancing, music and food.
One of the highlights was a Fashion Show featuring ladies in beautiful attire from some of the states of India.
India Republic Day 2024 Preview - from India to Cleveland
In this video FICA president Shekar Ganore told us a little about FICA which began in 1962 and then Lotus newsletter editor Deepa Rao spoke about their magazine which began in 1967.
With 1.4 billion people, India is very diverse with dozens of languages and faiths. But they all share the same 3 national holidays each year: Republic Day on January 26, Independence Day on August 15 and Gandhi Jayanti (Gandhi's birthday) on October 2. One might expect that Independence Day would be the biggest event but in reality, Republic Day is the biggest. Deepa explained what Republic Day is and why it is so celebrated.
Shekar explained some of the regional variations of the holidays. He told of the upcoming Republic Day celebration in Cleveland and both commented on how the community involves and interest young people in their culture. See more details of the Cleveland Republic Day event (on February 3)
Watch the video with Shekar and Deepa.
2023
Project Seva Diwali Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway Event
Volunteers from Project SEVA, a service arm of Federation of Indian Community Association (FICA) worked with local non-profit agencies and the CRB Department of City Hall to load and deliver boxed dinners, hygiene packets and blankets so the homeless and the refugees will have some needed items for this winter.
Both Mona Alag, the founding member of Project SEVA and Sangita Bafna, current President of Project SEVA were recognized at this event for 36 years of continuous service work to the needy in Cleveland.
Association of Asian Indian Women in Ohio Children's Day
Association of Asian Indian Women in Ohio (AAIWO) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization for Asian Indian women promoting professional development and education through scholarships and cultural outreach programs. Their aim is to foster and support women for personal and professional advancement while providing volunteer opportunities. AAIWO promotes culture and education while establishing productive social networks for women. AAIWO sponsors multi-cultural activities to promote cultural understanding in their community.
On September 17, 2023 they hosted Children's Day in the India Cultural Garden in Cleveland and there were numerous performances from young people.
The India Cultural Garden was very busy on One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 50,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2023. The Indian Garden community participated in the Parade of Flags which had 1500 people from over 53 countries.
India Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags 2023
Then the very large group celebrated in the India Cultural Garden.
The New Cleveland Indians performing at World on Stage - Asia
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation presented a series of World on Stage events during the summer of 2023 at the Centennial Peace Plaza in the Gardens. The September 9, 2023 event celebrated Asian heritage and culture. The New Cleveland Indians group performed a few Bollywood songs.
On June 24, 2023, a group joined Anil Singh and members of Sewa Internatioanl for International Yoga Day at University Hospitals Avon. The event provided a morning of physical and mental well-being for a free, guided outdoor yoga session to celebrate International Yoga Day.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Cleveland
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the founder of Art of Living, an international nonprofit organization focused on helping people relieve stress and anxiety through meditation, led the Sixth Sense Meditation & Wisdom series for the Cleveland community on June 23 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Independence High School Auditorium.
Ancient Indian Classical Dance about a young Krishna
The annual Cleveland Asian Festival was held on May 20 and 21, 2023 and attracted about 45,000 attendees.
Natya Niketan performed this ancient Indian classical dance about a young Krishna dancing on the head of a cobra to save his community.
Cleveland Mom's group is a group of more than 600 Indian moms. This group was formed by Mrs. Vidya Ramachandran and few other passionate moms who wants to support fellow moms. Cleveland Moms group is celebrating mother's day on May 20th 2023. This group has teachers, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and many moms ready to help each other and support each other. The vibration you get from this wonderful group is love, support and admiration to one another. Any time of the day anyone needs any help 600 moms are ready to help the other mom in need.
Doctors in the group give advice and gives proper direction. Fashion enthusiast will give advice on fashion sense and other stuff when asked for help for a prom night or any occasion for the moms or for daughters. College support topics moms share relevant information. There is a directory if we need any information on business, caterers, bakery, beauty salons or restaurant or any other information.
We are very fortunate to be a part of this vibrant group where women support fellow women. There is a sense of warmth and comfort that there are so many hands that comes out when you reach out for help on any topic any time of the day. Kudos to all wonderful moms in that group.
Note from Deepa Rao: Happy Mother's Day to all wonderful moms out there. Be there for each other. This group reminds me of "Ubuntu" - I am because you are or humanity towards others. Ubuntu encompasses the interdependence of humans on one another and the acknowledgement of one's responsibility to their fellow humans and the world around them.
Indian and Sikh volunteers help provide 120,000 meals for the world's hungry
Richfield Ohio Mayor Mike Wheeler was inspired by a recent event at the Jain Temple in Richfield that prepared over 10,000 meals for those in need around the world. He worked with Ramesh Shah to get sponsors and put a plan together with the Rise Against Hunger organization to gather the community and try to make 120,000 meals for those in need all over the world. Revere High School in Richfield was full with over 500 community members including Indian groups such as Project Seva and members of the Sikh community from Gurdwara Guru Nanak Foundation.
Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association Yugadi Celebration
The first day of Chaitra Navratri is celebrated with much pomp all across the country. According to Hindu traditions, Chaitra Navratri falls in the first month of the Hindu lunar calendar, known as Chaitra. Therefore, the beginning of Chaitra Navratri is marked on the first day of the Chaitra month, which is also marked as the Hindu New Year. This day has special significance in various states. While people of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka celebrate it as Yugadi, Maharashtra and Goa mark the same day as Gudi Padwa.
The Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association held a celebration event on April 2, 2023.
Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association Deepavali Celebration
The Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association is a non-profit, social, linguistic and cultural organization; incorporated under the Non Profit Corporation act of the State of Ohio, to integrate, coordinate, network and unite the activities of all Kannadigas, to preserve and promote the Kannada language and culture in Northeast Ohio; celebrate, experience and enjoy authentic cuisine from various parts of Karnataka.
On November 12, 2022 they hosted a large (500+ people) Deepavali celebration. The event featured singing, dance and other cultural performances as well as community resources such as Cleveland Clinic doctors performing health screens.
Hindi, Kannada, etc. - The diverse languages and dialects of India
We spoke with Dr. Naveen Uli at a celebration of Diwali hosted by the Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association. Dr. Uli said that while some think of the Indian diaspora as monolithic, in reality it is very diverse linguistically and in other ways. He said that there are dialects of his own home language spoken in Karnataka, a state in the southwestern region of India, that even he cannot understand. He said that Hindi serves as the national language but even Indian currency has 15 other languages listed. Watch the video.
Punya Koti - The Tiger and the Cows tale acted out by children
At a celebration of Diwali hosted by the Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association a group of children acted out the story based on a celebrated folk tale of Karnataka. A mother cow, Punya Koti, is confronted by a tiger in the woods who is going to eat her. She tells the tiger that she has to feed her calf and promises to return to him after she feeds her. The tiger doesn't believe she will return but lets her go. The mother cow feeds her calf and then goes back to the tiger as she promised. The tiger is very surprised and appreciates her motherly actions and realizes that God will never forgive him if he eats this honest soul so he lets her go. The tiger bows down to all 3 gods, jumps up high in the air, fell flat on the ground and died. Children are told this tale to teach truth, honesty and keeping promises.
Cardiac and other disease in South Asian population
Dr. Aravinda Nanjundappa is a cardiology specialist at Cleveland Clinic's main campus. He said that despite the seemingly healthier diet, the Indian population actually suffers from heart disease earlier in life than Caucasians. In addition, life expectancy is lower for this group. Dr. Nanjundappa gives his recommendations to get and stay healthy. Watch below.
We also spoke with Dr. Deepakraj Gajanana who is also an interventional cardiologist. He said that when he sees the disease burden of someone he wishes the patient could go back in time 5-10 years and make lifestyle changes so they would not be on his table. He said that people from India, Pakistan, China, Nepal, etc. generally have smaller size of arteries which leads to problems. Watch below.
Happy Diwali
Diwali is also known as the Festival of Lights. You may also hear it called Deepavali. It is a Hindu religious festival and one of the most important festivals within Hinduism. It generally lasts five days (or six in some regions of India), and started Monday October 24, 2022. The five-day long festival originated in the Indian subcontinent and is mentioned in early Sanskrit texts.
Diwali symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". The festival is widely associated with Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity and Ganesha, god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles, with many other regional traditions connecting the holiday to others.
The Goddess Lakshmi
In the lead-up to Deepavali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with diyas (oil lamps) and rangolis (colorful art circle patterns). During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes with diyas and rangoli, perform worship ceremonies of Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth, light fireworks, and partake in family feasts, where mithai (sweets) and gifts are shared.
Originally a Hindu festival, Diwali has transcended religious lines and is also celebrated by Jains and Sikhs. It is a major cultural event for the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain diaspora and the main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi Puja) is an official holiday in Fiji, Guyana, India, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
State of Ohio recognizes Diwali
India Independence Day and Cultural Garden on One World Day
The Cleveland Indian community demonstrated their proud heritage with a very large group of people at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 40,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2022.
India Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags 2022
Since One World Day was held just a few weeks after India Independence Day, the India Cultural Garden and Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) combined their Independence Day celebration with One World Day. The Indian community celebrated the 76th India Independence Day at One World Day participating in the Parade of Flags and then having cultural performances and Indian delicacies in the Garden. Attendees were encouraged to wear their regional/state dress so it was a colorful affair.
According to their website, the Jain Society of Greater Cleveland had a modest beginning 30+ years ago. The first gathering of Jains, about six families appears to have taken place in November 1974 for a Mahavir Nirvan celebration at a family residence followed by similar gatherings about two to three times a year. With encouragement from Acharya Shri Sushil Kumarji the group came together in a more formal manner resulting in the formation of a Jain Association in 1976. A more formal structure was created in 1978 – with a constitution approved on December 13, 1978 naming the organization “Jain Society of Greater Cleveland” – JSGC.
10,000 meals for Refugees prepared by Jain Society of Cleveland
On Saturday August 6 the Jain Society of Greater Cleveland held a working event at the Jain Temple in Richfield Ohio called Compassion in Action where the group packed 10,000 Meals for Refugees around the World. Joining them was Richfield Mayor Michael Wheeler and his wife.
In the video below you can see the well-organized system they used to prepare the meals and at the end there is a group photo.
According to their website, the Jain Society of Greater Cleveland had a modest beginning 30+ years ago. The first gathering of Jains, about six families appears to have taken place in November 1974 for a Mahavir Nirvan celebration at a family residence followed by similar gatherings about two to three times a year. With encouragement from Acharya Shri Sushil Kumarji the group came together in a more formal manner resulting in the formation of a Jain Association in 1976. A more formal structure was created in 1978 – with a constitution approved on December 13, 1978 naming the organization “Jain Society of Greater Cleveland” – JSGC.
Jainism is an ancient religion from India that teaches that the way to liberation and bliss is to live lives of harmlessness and renunciation. The essence of Jainism is concern for the welfare of every being in the universe and for the health of the universe itself.
In this video, Atul Shah from the Jain Society of Greater Cleveland told of the 3 main principles of Jainism: Strict non-violence, Many-sided Reality and Non-attachment to possessions. Jains go beyond being vegans - what he called Jain Vegan where even root vegetables are not eaten. He estimates there are 350 or so Jains in the Cleveland area.
Ramesh Shah inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Since 2010, the Cleveland International Hall of Fame (CIHF) has inducted people who have made significant and lasting contributions to our multicultural society. Cleveland is home to people representing about 120 different ethnic groups. The CIHF exists not only to honor those special people but also to inspire a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
Over 150 worthy candidates were nominated for both the 2020 and 2022 Classes of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame. The selection committee was advised by previously inducted members of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
Covid-19 forced the always sold out induction ceremonies to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021. We tried to induct the 2020 class virtually but it was not the same. So once we were able to gather together again, we included the 2020 class in the induction ceremony for the 2022 class on June 7, 2022. The event at Windows on the River was a sell out and the 2020 class finally got their moment in the spotlight.
On the evening of June 7, 2022 Ramesh Shah was finally honored in person and was inducted by Sudarshan Sathe.
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) Medical Yatra
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. With a membership of over 300 physicians who meet regularly for educational, charitable and social events, the organization provides an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the local community and to make friendships that last. AIPNO also provides service and aid to underserved areas and disaster affected sites. A 'Yatra' is a holy pilgrimage.
Medical YATRA team-25 physicians+ 22 volunteers conducted 10 days of Medical camps in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Barnala, Patiala, Amritsar, P. in 2020
For years, Dr Jaya Shah and Ramesh Shah have led an AIPNO Medical Yatra to tend to the needs of the poorest in different areas of India. Many of the people that the team of doctors see and treat have never had any contact with a medical professional.
Shiksha Daan – Gift of Education is an activity of FICA which was started in 2013. Our objective is to get the local area Indian community members more involved with the education and development of underprivileged youth and adults in the Greater Cleveland area. We achieve our mission by conducting our own tutoring programs and partnering with other non-profit organizations which are working in this area.
Kasturi Kannada Sangha is a non-profit social, linguistic and cultural organization in Northeast Ohio, dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the culture and traditions of the language of Kannada, which has its origins in the state of Karnataka in southern India.
Kasturi Kannada Sangha group
Kannada is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly by the people of Karnataka in the southwestern region of India. Kannada is known as the queen of all languages. Dravidian languages are a family of languages spoken by 220 million people, mainly in southern India and north-east Sri Lanka, with pockets elsewhere in South Asia.
The group was recognized by the City of Cleveland with a proclamation.
Proclamation for Kannada Language and Heritage Month
“Shiva Bhave Jeev Seva”. Serve the humanity as if you are serving God. That was the simple but profound teaching of Shri Ramkrishna Paramahansa and Swami Vivekananda. It combined the two unique concepts of Indian culture - universal brother/sisterhood (Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam) and experiencing Divinity in everything around us. And, Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) in North East Ohio embodies this perfectly. As the terrible human tragedy in Afghanistan displaced thousands of Afghanis, the need for their resettlement became increasingly dire. The speed at which the help was needed to avert a humanitarian disaster was tremendous. Organizations like United States Committee for Refugees & Immigrants (USCRI) are leading the efforts on a war footing to help resettle the displaced Afghanis. But, to truly get them resettled, the support from the broader community is needed and that is where FICA spearheaded the effort on behalf of 25,000+ Indian diaspora in North East Ohio.
FICA collaborated with other local Indian organizations, who as usual lent their wholehearted support for the good cause. FICA team reached out to several potential employers who showed their willingness to hire the new arrivals. whereas Sanjay and Mala Garg along with Shiksha daan team are planning on getting the volunteer force ready to tutor/train them.
FICA’s Project Seva leadership is deeply involved in providing the support with respect to groceries and in-kind donations ranging from winter clothing to pots and pans. Gauri Wagle Masurekar who is leading this effort on behalf of Project Seva has already made several drop offs till date. Support for the donation drive from Indian Americans - from long time FICA board member Chittaranjan Jain to more recent NEO resident Sunita Vijayvargiya - is overwhelming. Members from various local Indian organizations have also stepped up with in-kind donations and volunteer services.
On the occasion of Vijaya Dashami that symbolizes the win of good over evil, FICA President Ritu Mahna and Gauri Wagle Masurekar handed over the first donation check of $10,000 to USCRI. This was in addition to the tremendous in-kind support provided so far. The need is long term and much larger but FICA has full confidence in its sister organizations, members and Indian diaspora to rise to the occasion and make the difference in the lives of people that need this support the most presently. After all, “Atithi Devo Bhav” has been our philosophy for ages, isn’t it?
Indian Community at One World Day and 75th Independence Day
Cleveland's Indian community was well-represented at the 75th One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 29, 2021. They marched in the Parade of Flags and hosted music, dance, yoga and other activities in the beautiful India Cultural Garden as they also celebrated the 75th Independence Day of India.
India Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags at One World Day
Ramesh Shah inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Since 2010, the Cleveland International Hall of Fame (CIHF) has inducted people who have made significant and lasting contributions to our multicultural society. Cleveland is home to people representing about 120 different ethnic groups. The CIHF exists not only to honor those special people but also to inspire a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
Covid-19 forced the always sold out (500+ people) induction ceremonies to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021 so the Class is being inducted virtually.
Ramesh Shah was inducted by Federation of India Community Associations Board Chairman Sudarshan Sathe and welcomed to the Hall by Inaugural CIHF inductee Paramjit Singh.
Did you know that the Indian community is the only ethnic group with an inductee in every single class? - Paramjit Singh, Vijaya Emani, Dr. Jaya Shah, Ratanjit Sondhe, Monte Ahuja, Shiv Aggarwal, Dr. Mohan Bafna, Mona Alag, Dr. Atal C. Mehta, Sree Sreenath and now Ramesh Shah.
AIPNO Medical Yatra
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. A 'Yatra' is a holy pilgrimage. For years, Dr Jaya Shah and Ramesh Shah have led an AIPNO Medical Yatra to tend to the needs of the poorest in different areas of India.
Ramesh Shah and AIPNO Medical Yatra team
Many of the people that the team of doctors see and treat have never had any contact with a medical professional.
Sonia Aggarwal becomes senior advisor to President Biden
Sonia Aggarwal, one of Cleveland's own, has become President Joe Biden's senior advisor for climate policy and innovation and will be working in the White House.
A sell out crowd of 450 attended the Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) Republic Day event on Saturday February 1, 2020. Republic Day honors the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect on January 26, 1950 replacing the Government of India Act as the governing document of India.
At the event, FICA Board of Trustees Chairman Sudarshan Sathe spoke about the projects - past, current and future - of the organization such as Project Seva, Shiksha Daan, India Cultural Garden and others. The Chief Guest and Keynote speaker was Samir Kapadia, MD the Cleveland Clinic Department Chair of Cardiovascular Medicine. He gave some facts about Republic Day and also offered advice about how to stay heart healthy.
Mahatma Gandhi 150th birthday Celebration in India Cultural Garden
The Federation of Indian Community Associations (FICA) hosted a celebration on the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi in the India Cultural Garden in Cleveland on October 2, 2019. Though it was raining steadily, many people assembled to honor Gandhi in the Garden.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosted the 74th annual One World Day on August 25, 2019. Police estimates say that over 30,000 people visited the Gardens and attended One World Day. There was a lot of activity in the beautiful and historic Indian Cultural Garden.
A highlight of One World Day is the Parade of Flags where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags. This year was undoubtedly the largest and most colorful in memory.
Indian Dance in India Cultural Garden at One World Day
Besides the Parade of Flags, there were performances and activities in the India Garden during One World Day including dances by students of Nartanam Academy of Dance.
Students of Nartanam Academy of Dance at One World Day 2019
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio 2019 Medical Yatra
A 'Yatra' is a holy pilgrimage. For years, Dr Jaya Shah and Ramesh Shah have led an AIPNO Medical Yatra to tend to the needs of the poorest in different areas of India. Many of the people that the team of doctors see and treat have never had any contact with a medical professional.
AIPNO Educating Teachers and Students in Dental and CPR
The 10th annual Cleveland Asian Festival was held on the weekend of May 18 and 19 in Cleveland's AsiaTown neighborhood on Payne Avenue. It has become a not-to-miss annual event with great entertainment, food, shopping and fun.
Dr. Sree Sreenath inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Sree N. Sreenath, Ph.D., MNO, is a tenured full professor in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department at Case Western Reserve University. Since 2009, he is the President of Sewa International (www.sewausa.org), a Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit working in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and, development.
On April 16, 2019 Dr. Sreenath was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame by AIPNO leader Ramesh Shah.
Ramesh Shah inducts Sree Sreenath
Sree Sreenath gives his induction speech
Watch the video of Dr. Sreenath being inducted and his speech.
Nritya Gitanjali School dancers at Chinese New Year event
Students of the Nritya Gitanjali School of Dance and Music performed this Blossoming of Flowers Indian dance at the Confucius Institute at Cleveland State University 2019 Chinese New Year celebration.
Students of the Nritya Gitanjali School of Dance and Music
International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art is a celebration of the rich diversity of our region’s multiethnic communities, featuring traditional music and dance performances, cultural displays, and ingallery experiences. During this vibrant afternoon, visitors enjoyed presentations from more than 50 community groups expressing the continued vitality of the global cultures and arts that enliven our city.
Indian dancers perform in the Atrium of Cleveland Museum of Art
The Indian community was well represented with several performances.
Nritya Gitanjali Indian dancers at Cleveland Museum of Art
Other performances included Asim Datta singing a Tagore song in Bengali.
The Cleveland Indian community was out in full force at the 73rd annual One World Day on the site of the Indian Cultural Garden. Members of the community marched in the annual Parade of Flags and later there was yoga, food and fun as members of the Indian community shared their culture with thousands of visitors on One World Day.
Yoga in Indian Cultural Garden on One World Day 2018
Thank you Federation of India Community Associations (FICA)
FICA is an organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Asian Indian Community in Northeast Ohio. From its humble beginnings as a student association in 1962, it has grown to be the voice of a diaspora of over 20,000 and on the increase. FICA helps Asian Indian families assimilate into the mosaic of greater Cleveland.
Their Mission: To organize events that promote the rich cultural heritage of India in greater Cleveland; to facilitate ongoing dialog with civic leaders regarding issues of importance to Asian Indian families in the region; to facilitate the mainstreaming of Asian Indian families by creating a platform for the community's active participation in the civic life; to collaborate with local organizations to promote goodwill and understanding between diverse communities; to partner with business groups that promote ties between Indian and US firms and foster economic development. To help provide a unified voice of our community, support sister organizations, help
community enter the main street.
Thank you to FICA for their support of the India section of ClevelandPeople.com
AIPNO Medical Yatra 2018
A 'Yatra' is a holy pilgrimage. For years, Dr Jaya Shah and Ramesh Shah have led an AIPNO Medical Yatra to tend to the needs of the poorest in different areas of India. Many of the people that the team of doctors see and treat have never had any contact with a medical professional.
Two years ago Sandhya lost her leg. Today she took her first steps with her new prosthetic leg, Jaipur foot;
“I am happy, I can walk, I can go to work. My family is very happy.”
Sandhyadipa Kar introduced Odissi, a classical form of Odisha Dance from India.
Sandhyadipa Kar and student dancer
Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Indian Performing Arts students performed the highly stylized and vigorous classical Indian dance form called Bharathanatyam.
Bharathanatyam Classical dance at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
A new state-of-the-art destination at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is called Asian Highlands and is home to Amur and snow leopards, red panda and a new species to the Zoo, takin. The architecture of the structure is designed with elements representative of central China, the region these species are native to. To celebrate the grand opening of the new Asian Highlands destination there were several Asian performances including a Bharatanatyam dance from Tamil Nadu in southern India by 7th grader Deepa Manikandan.
Performing in front of a bear habitat, Deepa began by balancing and dancing on a mudpot and then told the story of the 10 avatars of Vishnu and three animals - deer, peacock and snake - in her dance.
The Confucius Institute at Cleveland State University hosted a Chinese New Year Celebration for the Year of the Dog on Saturday February 24. An Indian Kuchipudi dance on brass plate was performed by Srinija Adibhatla.
Indian Kuchipudi dance on brass plate by Srinija Adibhatla.
2017
Fashions from India at Cleveland multicultural party
A highlight of the 8th Annual ICC-WIN Cleveland Multicultural Holiday Celebration on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland was the International Fashion Show featuring almost 100 models from about 30 countries.
Parul Parikh, Vimmi Jain, Sarla Venna, Neelam Jagetia, Rehana Fatteh and Sarita Nath represented India.
India is a land of colors and diverse cultures. Traditional clothing in India varies with region, religion and community. However, one thing that remains very true to the culture is its beautiful and vibrant colors of the clothing. Models are wearing Sarees, Lehengas, Anarkali Suits, and Ghagra Choli.
A Ghagra Choli or a Lehenga Choli is the traditional clothing of women in Rajasthan and Gujarat. The lehenga is a long skirt, which is embroidered and pleated. A choli is a midriff-bearing blouse is tailored to tightly fit the body with short sleeves and a low neck. Finally, women wear a dupatta to finish the look.
The saree (sari) is a long unstitched cloth from 4 to 9 meters in length, usually intricately patterned, which drapes around and over the body. It is worn with a tailored blouse. This is considered to be the staple of Indian women clothing.
The Anarkali suit is mostly worn in Northern parts of India and it consists of the Churidar - narrow trousers worn under the kameez (a long shirt or tunic). The anarkali suit varies in many different lengths and embroideries including floor length anarkali styles. This has become very popular and is worn at many Indian events.
Dr. Mohanlal Bafna, husband of the late Kamla Bafna, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on November 25, 2017. He was surrounded by his family.
Dr. Mohan Bafna
A deeply loving and generous man, his legacy will live on for generations to come. He is survived by his children Suresh (Guniya), Kala (Nikhil), and Dinesh (Sangita); his grandchildren, Neha (Raj), Nikhil, Kunaal, Kurren, Akshay; as well as his great-grandchildren, Aria and Ayan.
A gathering will be held at Busch Funeral Home, 7501 Ridge Road, Parma, on Wednesday, November 29th from 10 AM to 12 PM. Friends are also invited to a memorial service which will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at the Shiva Vishnu Temple in Parma.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friends of Breakthrough Schools (memo Mahatma Gandhi Campus), 3615 Superior Avenue, #3103A, Cleveland OH 44114.
The Ohio Asian American Economic Summit took place November 14, 2017 at Ariel International Center in Cleveland. Ariel International and Margaret Wong & Associates LLC were the event sponsors. Ariel CEO Radhika Reddy had worked toward this event for years and with the support of Margaret Wong was able to fill the room with people interested in doing business in and with Asia and a stellar group of speakers and panelists including the Consul General of India who flew in from New York and the Consul General of Japan who came in from Detroit.
Radhika Reddy and Consul General of Japan in Detroit Mitsuhiro Wada
Honorable Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of India
Vinita Mehra, Partner, Kegler, Brown Hill + Ritter
Monica Verma of Baker Hostetler spoke on Protecting Intellectual Property when doing International Business.
Monica Verma
Members of the Indian community with Honorable Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of India
Lisa Wong, Mona Alag and Ritu Mahna
Rita Singh, Honorable Sandeep Chakravorty and Mona Alag
Congratulations to Radhika Reddy for creating this important event.
Bharathanatyam Classical Indian dance by Krithika Rajkumar
Krithika Rajkumar performed the ancient classical Indian dance form Bharathanatyam at International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Bharata Natyam Classical Indian dance from Nritya Gitanjali School
Students from the Nritya Gitanjali School of Dance and Music in Cleveland Ohio performed the ancient classical Indian dance form Bharata Natyam at International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Click on the white arrow in the image below to watch the video of Mona's speech. Make sure your speakers are on and you can make the video full screen once it begins by clicking the icon in the lower right corner.
A 'Yatra' is a holy pilgrimage. For years, Dr Jaya Shah and Ramesh Shah have led an AIPNO Medical Yatra to tend to the needs of the poorest in different areas of India. Many of the people that the team of doctors see and treat have never had any contact with a medical professional.
New to the 2017 Cleveland Asian Festival was a demonstration of Asian cooking. Anjan Ghose assisted by his wife Kathy presented two dishes.
Anjan prepared Cucumber Raita (Cucumber in Yogurt) and then a Sweet and Sour Strawberry Snack.
Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) hosted their annual event to celebrate Republic Day on Saturday January 28, 2017 in the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Rainforest.
The theme of the Republic Day event was Ahimsa. Ahimsa is a term meaning 'not to injure'.
The evening included cultural performances, informative presentations, a chance to make an origami swan of peace and, of course, delcious food and drink and dancing in an interesting and fun setting.
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio Medical Yatra
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. With a membership of over 300 physicians who meet regularly for educational, charitable and social events, the organization provides an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the local community and to make friendships that last.
AIPNO also provides service and aid to undeserved areas and disaster affected sites. The Medical YATRA Mission is to Educate, Prevent and Save Lives!
Wathc this short video to learn more about the great work these physicians and other volunteers do for the neediest of people.
Mother Teresa of Kolkata Canonization Ceremony
Mother Teresa of Calcutta, ethnic Albanian, Nobel Peace Prize winner and founder of the Missionaries of Charity who dedicated her life to helping India's poor, was canonized as Saint Mother Teresa by Pope Francis. "We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean, but the ocean would be less because of that missing drop" - Mother Teresa
Asim Datta was born and raised in Calcutta (Kolkata) India. He spoke about Mother Teresa of Calcutta and sang a song that was sung at her canonization in Rome earlier in the day.
The Cleveland India Cultural Garden and Indian community participated in the 71st One World Day on August 28, 2016. The group celebrated India Independence Day in the Garden.
They then participated in the Parade of Flags.
Throughout the day members of the Indian community of Cleveland hosted hundreds of visitors in the Indian Cultural Garden and shared Indian culture.
The India Cultural Garden was one of 4 Gardens featured on the first annual Kid's Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. Kids (of all ages) learned about India and Indian language, culture, history, geography and more. They heard stories about Mahatma Gandhi and learned some basic yoga and Bollywood dance moves.
Cleveland's Asian Immigrant Communities August 10, 2016
On Wednesday, August 10, 2016, Global Cleveland hosted a panel discussion at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage titled: Begin the Conversation: Cleveland's Immigrant Communities Today: Pan-Asian Community.
Four members of the Cleveland Asian community spoke and answered questions from moderator Jeffery Allen: Gia Hoa Ryan who came to the US from her native Vietnam in 1971, Asim Datta who came from India, Johnny Wu who has lived in Panama, Taiwan and other places and represented the Chinese community and Nupur Goel who is in the 11th Grade at Gilmour Academy. Her parents emigrated from India 20+ years ago.
Jeffery Allen, Asim Datta, Nupur Goel, Johnny Wu and Gia Hoa Ryan
Here is a sample video of Asim Datta telling why the Indian population never settled in one central area in Cleveland.
Art and Stories from Mughal India - Cleveland Museum of Art
Art and Stories from Mughal India presents the story of the Mughals — and stories for the Mughals — in 100 exquisite paintings from the 1500s to 1800s.
Art and Stories from Mughal India is on view in the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Hall from July 31, 2016 through October 23, 2016, and is free to the public in celebration of the museum’s centennial year.
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio at Rotary
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. With a membership of over 300 physicians who meet regularly for educational, charitable and social events, the organization provides an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the local community and to make friendships that last. AIPNO also provides service and aid to underserved areas and disaster affected sites. The Medical YATRA Mission is to Educate, Prevent and Save Lives!
Ramesh Shah led a group of Indian physicians from AIPNO at a meeting of the Cleveland Rotary Club.
Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) hosted the annual Republic Day celebration on January 23, 2016. The theme was Solidarity in Diversity.
A highlight of the 6th annual Holiday Celebration of Cleveland's Diversity held in the atrium of the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center by the International Community Council-Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) was the multicultural fashion show.
Models Mr. Indrajit Mukherjee, Mrs. Nilanjana Mukherjee and 3 year old son Rick. Anjan Ghose and Kathy Ghose
Nilanjana os wearing a traditional Bengali saree called a Swarnachari silk saree. Indrajit and son Rick are wearing traditional Bengali style menswear.
Anjan is wearing a Sherwani suit consisting of pants and a long coat. the father and son will be wearing traditional Bengali style menswear that is hand stitched and Kathy is wearing an outfit called Anarkali Salwar suit worn by women in Northern India. Length of Salwar top range from floor length to above the ankle and worn with slim fitting pants
On October 25, 2015, Project Seva with support from Sewa International and AIPNO has delivered 1,000 Blankets to 18 Shelter Homes in Cleveland area.
Volunteers from the community helped achieve the goal.
Great job Project Seva and volunteers.
Nritya Geetanjal School Dancers at Cleveland Museum of Art
Young ladies from the Nritya Geetanjal School of Dance performed in traditional costumes at the Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day in the Atrium of the museum on October 4, 2015.
Paramjit Singh explained the Indian clothing he was wearing at the Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day in the Atrium of the museum. Paramjit is a Sikh and explained about the turban too.
India Cultural Garden 10th Anniversary
The India Cultural Garden is one of the 30 or so gardens in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. The India Garden is now 10 years old and the anniversary was celebrated with a special event and look to the future by FICA. Soon the statue of Mahatma Gandhi will be joined by a 24' tall Torana (Monumental Gate).
The event included a keynote address from Chief Guest Rev Dr. Otis Moss Jr and performances from students of the Nupur School of Dance as well as a tabla performance from Joe Culley.
Sisters from the Nupur School performed a Bollywood Dance
Radhika Reddy and Ariel International Center, in association with the Consulate General of India, New York hosted a reception with Honorable Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, Consul General of India, New York and Honorable Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Deputy Consul General of India, New York to hear about the latest opportunities for US Companies interested in investing or doing business with India.
Federation of India Community Associations (FICA)hosted their annual celebration of Independence Day on August 15, 2015.
The day began in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue at the India Cultural Garden on MLK Blvd and a march to the Rockefeller Greenhouse for a ceremony that included songs and dances - both Kathak and Bollywood.
Lt. Colonel Om Julka has been called the doyen of the Indian Diaspora in Cleveland, Ohio. He is perhaps the oldest living Asian Indian in Cleveland, having immigrated here in 1978. He was an eye witness to many of the events leading up to and after India's independence.
In this short video Om Julka, a week shy of his 97th birthday, explained the difference between Republic Day and Independence Day.
Library for poor in Tamil Nadu
The Jared Scott Miller Library will be built in the small village in Tamil Nadu India to serve the 5000 residents of the village of Edayanchavadi.
It is a tribute to Jared by his parents Cheryl and Paul Miller. Jared tragically lost his life in 2013 due to a severe asthma attack.
Shiv K. Aggarwal inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Though born in India, 2015 Cleveland International Hall of Fame inductee Shiv Aggarwal worked with Hungarian, Slovak, Italian, Slovenian, African, Appalachian & Indian Students and started the Collinwood Youth Association during the riots in the 1960's in Cleveland.
Shiv Aggarwal was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame by Michael Sreshta.
Federation of India Community Associations (FICA)hosted their annual celebration of Republic Day on January 24, 2015. The event included cultural performances form students from the Hindu Heritage School in Solon and Kuchipudi dances, Bollywood dancing and a guitar trio of U of Akron grad students.
FICA president Asim Datta and FICA Trustee Dr. Ray Gehani presented the Outstanding Service to India Community Award and Friend of the Indian Community Award to Sanjay Garg and Dan Hanson (respectively).
Kuchipudi dancers Srinija Adibhatla and Archana Poota
Ariel International Center, Consulate General of India, NY and Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) hosted a reception to meet with Honorable Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Deputy Consul General of India, New York to hear about the latest Opportunities for US Companies interested in Investing or Doing Business with India given the liberalized business climate with the recent landslide election victory for the business minded Prime Minister, Mr. Modi.
Indian Dance and Fashion at Cleveland Multicultural Event
Mahima Venkatesh performed the traditional South Indian Karagattam Dance at the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network's (ICC-WIN) 5th annual multicultural holiday celebration at the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center in Cleveland Ohio.
Then Mahima's parents Venky and Sowmya Venkatesh participated in the International Fashion Show which featured traditional costumes of dozens of countries including India.
Indian Christian Association of Northeast Ohio Christmas
Members of the Indian Christian Association of Northeast Ohio have been gathering to celebrate Christmas for over 30 years. At the service, the group sings hymns in both English and native Indian languages. The 2014 event was at the Church of the Savior in Cleveland Hts. Ohio.
Songs were sung in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam and English.
Two young ladies performed a modern Indian dance at a Global Cleveland event in the Cleveland Convention Center.
Philanthropia 2014
The Cleveland Indian community was well represented at the 2014 Philanthropia at Landerhaven. AIPNO Medical Yatra 2014, Project Seva of FICA and Rita Singh's Elite Women around the World were all Diamond Donors.
Over 100 Cleveland area charities will receive funds from the $143,954 dollars that were raised at the event bringing the Philanthropia total to 1.7 million dollars!
The Indian community rallied around eight of their finest artists in the 2nd Annual Kala Art Show held Sunday, November 16th at the Ahuja Medical Center in Beachwood.
Artists with show organizers Poonam Punwani and Mona Alag
In the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, Sewa means Service - a unique concept of Service - Selfless Efforts for Welfare of All. Sewa International USA is a Hindu faith-based humanitarian non-profit service organization. Their vision is to increase civic engagement of the communities in the United States to volunteer and promote volunteering.
On November 15, 2014 a sold-out crowd attended an event in Cleveland to learn more about Sewa International, recognize super volunteers and to support the cause - specifically the Family Services project.
Dr. Sree Sreenath, President of Sewa International
The Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) hosted Deepavali (Diwali), The Festival of Lights, in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall on October 24, 2014. Deepavali is a five-day Hindu festival which falls between mid-October and mid-November.
The celebration included speeches, entertainment, socializing and food.
About 1000 people celebrated the Annual Mass and Gathering on Sunday, October 5, 2014 at 12 noon at St. Clarence Church. This is the 17th year the event was hosted by the Asian Ministry of the Diocese of Cleveland. It was an afternoon of family celebration of Asian culture and spirituality beginning with the celebration of the Mass with the Most Rev. Roger W Gries, OSB along with priests from the different Asian Catholic communities.
The cultural and ethnic diversity of the Asian Catholic communities assembled at the Mass was reflected throughout the celebration. Members of the various Asian communities came together with their own traditions, dressed in colorful ethnic clothes: shimmering saris, kimonos, karawangs, hanboks, barongs, and ao dai. The entrance procession included Vietnamese drums. During the Mass there was an incense ceremony by the Vietnamese, and the Indian aarti. Hymns were sung by the choirs in various Asian languages: Tagalog (Filipino), Korean, Vietnamese and Hindi (Indian).
The readings and the prayers of the faithful were also said in various Asian languages.
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. With a membership of over 300 physicians who meet regularly for educational, charitable and social events, the organization provides an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the local community and to make friendships that last.
AIPNO also provides service and aid to undeserved areas and disaster affected sites. They held a fundraiser breakfast on September 7, 2014 with proceeds going to the upcoming yatras to Guyana and India.
AIPNO leader Ramesh Shah holds a sign showing the number of cataract surgeries that were sponsored so far that morning.
One of the community projects of Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) is Shiksha Daan, the Gift of Education. Just over a year old, the Shiksha Daan project led by Sanjay Garg has had great success. A gathering was held at the India Community Center on August 23, 2014 to share the success stories, opportunities to volunteer and future plans.
Asim Datta, president of the Federation of India Community Associations of Northeast Ohio (FICA), spoke at a FICA celebration of the 67th anniversary of India's Independence. He gave some of the history of the creation of India and Pakistan and explained the difference between India Independence Day and Republic Day. He then explained some of the many activities of FICA including their community service projects such as Project Seva and Shiksha Daan.
The day began in front of the Gandhi statue at the India Cultural Garden on MLK Blvd.
This was followed by a march to the Greenhouse.
Om Julka and Chittaranjan Jain led the march
Entertainment and performances were held at the Rockefeller Greenhouse.
Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
May 28, 2014 The City of Cleveland Community Relations Board, led by Asian Liaison Chia-Min Chen, hosted an Asian Heritage Day Celebration on May 28, 2014 in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda.
Over 60 Asian community groups and organizations participated. Chia-Min Chen called them up to the stage one at a time and each gave an elevator speech explaining their organization. The following Indian groups were represented:
Anga Kala Kathak Academy
Asian Indian Catholics of Northeast Ohio
Asian Indian Heritage Project in Cleveland
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio
Association of Asian Indian Women of Northeast Ohio
Cleveland Coalition for Peace and Non Violence
Indian Christian Association of Northeast Ohio
India-Ohio Chamber of Commerce
Federation of India Community Associations of Northeast Ohio
Indian Classical Music Association of Cleveland
Kerala Association of Ohio
Marwari Association of Ohio
Northeast Ohio Telugu Association
Project SEVA
Undergraduate Indian Student Association from Case Western Reserve University
Learn more about the Indian organizations (and the other Asian groups) including photos and videos of the group leaders at the Asian Organizations in Cleveland pages.
Only 2 communities have had an inductee in every class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame. The Indians and the Irish.
Paramjit Singh was inducted in the inaugural class in 2010.
Vijaya Emani was inducted posthumously in 2011.
Dr. Jaya Shah was inducted in 2012.
Ratanjit Sondhe was inducted in 2013.
Monte Ahuja was inducted into the 2014 class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame in a dinner ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott at Key Center on Monday May 12, 2014.
Musical Journey along the Silk Road - Indian Musicians at Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Students of the Anga Kala Kathak Academy performed at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History at a special cultural event for the Traveling the Silk Road exhibit. Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) is one of the sponsors of the exhibit.
Sugata Chatterjee was born in Calcutta, India. This classic Hindustani vocalist has cultivated a systematic and disciplined training from her childhood days under the able guidance of Guru Satya Ranjan Chatterjee. Her versatility now includes Hindustani Khyal, Bhajan, Thumri and Ragpradhan.
Salar Nader began studying with the legendary tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain at seven years of age. He explained the different parts of the tabla and told and demonstrated the different sounds it makes.
Medical Yatra - AIPNO and Rotary team up to Save Lives in Gandevi, India
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. Thye partnered with Rotary clubs and Rotary Foundation in a Global Grant #1412348 to make a huge impact in training the trainers and save the lives in remote corners of Gandevi, Gujarat, India.
The aim was "To improve the quality of life of the rural and tribal community by performing the life saving surgeries of Cancer and Coronary diseases as well as by increasing awareness regarding early detection and prevention of Diabetes and to increase the capacity of local health professionals by training and Education."
Ramesh Shah with Sanjeevani Rath-Mobile Van equipped with Mammography Sonography and MRI for Early Cancer detection
FICA, Cleveland State University Center for International Services and Programs (CISP) and Indian Student Association (ISA) hosted a Holi celebration in Cleveland at CSU on March 29, 2014. The "Spring Festival" was greeted with a surprise blizzard of more than 5" of snow but people braved the elements for the good food, camaraderie and especially the performances - both traditional and modern.
FICA hosts an annual event to celebrate Republic Day. The event, dinner and performances took place on Saturday January 25, 2014. Hopefully we will have video soon.
Chittaran Jain, Mohan Bafna, Mayor Frank Jackson,
Ronald Berkman, Asim Datta and Ray Gehani
phil·an·thro·pi·a is Executive Caterers’ Annual Fundraising Luncheon at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits throughout Northeast Ohio. The Indian community has always been a strong supporter of this event.
A very special part of the 2013 event was the participation of the Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO). AIPNO leaders Ramesh and Jaya Shah were called to the stage by Leon Bibb and Harlan Diamond and explained Project Sewa, AIPNO, medical yatras and more.
Leon Bibb, Harlan Diamond, Ramesh and Jaya Shah
There was also a very special announcement from Devo Bavishi owner of Ace Taxi Service.
Indian Kuchipudi Group Dance at WIN event in Cleveland
Students of Kalyani Veturi performed a traditional Indian Kuchipudi Group Dance at the 4th annual Worldwide Intercultural Network (WIN) holiday celebration of global diversity at the Ariel International Center in Cleveland.
Why and when Indians (and Sikhs) came to Cleveland
Mona Alag, past president of the Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) in Cleveland Ohio spoke at the Cleveland Food Adventurers event at the Saffron Patch. Mona was asked why and when Indians came to the US and to Cleveland.
She asked Shiv Aggarwal to answer and he said many came around 1962 and 1963. Paramjit Singh told why and when many Sikhs came here.
Members of the Food Passport program visit different authentic ethnic restaurant and learn about the cuisine and culture.
An Indian Celebration for the World Cleveland City Hall
November 8, 2013
The Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) hosted Deepavali, The Festival of Lights, in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall on November 8, 2013. The event included traditional and modern Indian music and dance including Kuchipudi, Kathak Dance, a classical ensemble and some Bollywood dances.
Radhika Reddy - Adjusting to US after leaving India
October 29, 2013
Union Club
The Engaging Women's Committee of The Union Club presented "Women Changing Cleveland and the World" How Diverse Female Professionals are Thriving and Contributing to Our Economy and Community. The panel included 4 successful women from 4 different countries and 3 continents. Panelist Radhika Reddy of Ariel International was born in India and told of some of the differences in culture between Indian and the US.
Tagore poem danced and sung in Bengali
October 10, 2013
Cleveland Museum of Art
A poetic composition by Nobel Prize winner Rabindranath Tagore about the beauty of monsoons and the rain was performed in the Bengali language and danced by students of the Nritya Gitanjali School of Dance and Music.
They performed at International Cleveland Community Day in the Atrium of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Indian table at Cleveland Museum of Art
Monthi Feast (Bandra Feast) celebrated in Elyria
St. Agnes Church in Elyria - September 28, 2013
The Asian Indian Catholic Community celebrated the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary at St. Agnes Church in Elyria. Fr. Albert Veigas, Pastor, is from India and said that in India the Feast is one of the most celebrated and revered days of the Church calendar. It coincides with the Harvest Festival and the two are combined to make Mary's birthday even more special.
The Feast is a major celebration in Mangalore, where it is known as Monthi Fest (or Monti Fest) and in Bandra, Mumbai (Bandra Feast). In Bandra, the focal point of the Festival is The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount or Mount Mary Church.
Our Children Our Future Independence Middle School September 14, 2013
India Festival USA is an annual event that attempts to bridge cultures, generations and communities through one-day of togetherness. It is a day when visitors are encouraged to participate in a thematic display of the rich culture and diversity of two of the greatest nations on earth – India and USA.
One highlight was the Indian Hindu Myth of Shakuntala told with giant puppets from the Cleveland Museum of Art.
The day featured singing, dancing, shopping and other activities and performances.
The 2013 One World Day was held throughout the Cleveland Cultural Gardens in Cleveland on Sunday August 25, 2013. The Indian community was represented in the Parade of Flags as Raj Pillai carried the Indian flag down MLK Blvd.
Parade of Flags - Raj Pillai
There were also activities and performances at the India Cultural Garden.
Over the weekend of August 18, 2013 FICA hosted special events to celebrate India Independence Day. This included Cricket and Tennis Tournaments, cultural performances and presentations.
Indian Folk dances at 2013 International Folk Festival
Wade Oval June 23, 2013
The 2013 International Folk Festival was held at Wade Oval in University Circle in Cleveland. Asim Datta served as Master of Ceremonies along with Ken Kovach.
Ken Kovach and Asim Datta
The Indian community was represented by Shri Kalaa Mandir students who performed traditional Indian Folk dances. Shri Kalaa Mandir Center for Performing Arts was founded by Bharathanatyam exponent Sujatha Srinivasan to propagate and promote the ancient classical dance and music of India.
Federation of India Community Associations (FICA)Dinner
India Community Center - June 14, 2013
On June 14, 2013 FICA hosted a dinner event at the India Community Center on Cedar Road which serves as its home. Along with the great food and camaraderie, attendees heard updates on various FICA programs (India Cultural Garden, Project Seva, Shiksha Daan, etc.) and honored a very special man.
The annual Asian Pacific Heritage Day celebration was held May 310, 2013 in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall. Michael Sreshta served as Master of Ceremonies and Shiv Aggarwal gave the keynote address.
Michael Sreshta and Shiv Aggarwal
A variety of presentations and performances took place including Indian Bollywood dances performed by Cleveland State University students led by Venkat Raj.
The 4th annual Cleveland Asian Festival attracted 38,380 attendees over the weekend of May 18-19, 2013. They spent over $2 million in the AsiaTown neighborhood. There were dozens of performances from local, regional, and national performing groups including headliner Cheesa from NBC's The Voice.
People enjoyed Asian cuisine from over 20 different restaurants and shopping in the World Market which was filled with merchants of Asian themed products while sponsors had informational displays at their tent.
International Partners in Mission celebrated its 11th annual Namaste! One Night for One World event on Friday, April 26, 2014.
One Night for One World invites guests to immerse themselves in the various cultural identities of global communities through live music, dance, authentic food and beverages, decorations and education.
One highlight was the Indian Bhangra dance from Punjab performed by young siblings.
Gill family dancers - Simi, Jasleen and little brother
Ambassador of India to the United States Nirupama Rao
Ambassador of India to the United States Nirupama Rao visited Cleveland in March. She met with local executives and leaders and also attended several events in Northeast Ohio's Indian-American community including a visit to the Indian Cultural Garden and a recpetion at the Ariel International Center.
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio 2013 Medical Yatra
Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) was founded in 1983 as a non-profit organization of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. With a membership of over 300 physicians who meet regularly for educational, charitable and social events, the organization provides an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the local community and to make friendships that last. AIPNO also provides service and aid to undeserved areas and disaster affected sites.
The 2013 Medical Yatra was to Santiniketan, W.Bengal, India.
The India Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. A highlight of the Garden is the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Cleveland Ohio is the only city in the world that has a statue of Gandhi on a street named for Martin Luther King Jr. But there are other parts of the Garden of interest including the 7 pillars that tell about India's Diversity, History, Great Leaders, Art and Culture and so on.
The Indian Garden also has a new entrance path where the word 'Welcome' is spelled in 15 different languages that you would hear in India.
This second video is a short virtual tour of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in the Indian Cultural Garden.
Asim Datta, president of the Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) has been a 7 year volunteer at the Diversity Center of Cleveland's Walk, Rock and Run event. In this short video, Asim told about the many upcoming events and festivals coming up in Cleveland including the Cleveland Asian Festival.
FICA, the Federation of India Community Associations of Northeast Ohio, held a Holi celebration at their Community Center on March 16, 2013. Culture, food and performances - not to mention color - filled the evening.
At a reception on February 27, 2013 The Cleveland Museum of Art introduced Sonya Rhie Quintanilla as Curator of Indian and Southeast Asian Art. Dr. Quintanilla gave previews of the collection, including the Ganesh and Tantra in Buddhist Art, that will be featured starting in May.
CMA Director David Franklin, Director, Education and Public Programs Marjorie Williams and Curator Sonya Rhie Quintanilla
FICA, the Federation of India Community Associations of Northeast Ohio hosts an annual event to celebrate Republic Day. The event, dinner and performances took place on Saturday January 26, 2013 and over 300 attended.
Dr. Darshan Mahajan with Awards Committee members Hira Rane, Sujata Burgess and Venky Venkatesh
The Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) staffed a table at the grand opening of the Ames Family Atrium in the Cleveland Museum of Art on Sunday October 28, 2012.
Kathy Ghose, Asim Datta and Sujata Burgess of FICA
Sisters Mahima and Mahathi Venkatesh, with the strong support of their parents Sowmya and Venky, are almost singlehandledly exposing new audiences to beautiful and complex traditional Indian dances. They are also preserving the intricate movements for the entire world as these traditional performances become less numerous and remembered as time goes on.
Mahima and Mahati performed at the Atrium opening.
Mahathi Venkatesh and proud father Venky Venkatesh
Euclid City Councilman Scott Lynch hosted Swami Shree Yogi Satyam of India along with Dr. Zena Bedessee and supporters of Truth and Non-violence on October 2, 2012, at the Irish-American Club East Side to celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday, the "International Day of Non-Violence."
Kriyayoga Master, Swami Shree Yogi Satyam in Euclid
Unveiling of Mother Teresa Statue September 22, 2012 The formal dedication of the Albanian Garden and unveiling of the Mother Teresa Statue.
Mother Teresa statue covered before unveiling
Michael Sreshta, Asim Datta, Pia and Deb Roy
3rd annual NorthEast Ohio India Festival USA September 15, 2012 The 3rd annual NorthEast Ohio India Festival USA took place in Independence on Saturday September 15, 2012. Over 4600 visitors enjoyed the festivities.
The 2012 theme was “Education for Achievement“.
Dr. Chittaranjan Jain received the 2012 India Festival USA Education for Achievement Award, Dhamakapella, Case Western Reserve University’s premier South Asian Fusion music group, performed a mixture of music and hundreds participated in the spectacular You’ve Got Talent show.
The Tarang Group sang the Indian Anthem at India Festival USA
A highlight of the 2012 Ohio's Celtic and International Fest was the ClevelandPeople.Com International Pavilion which featured almost 20 different groups performing their culture's traditions in colorful native costumes. This included the Indian community with a Federation of India Community Associations (FICA) booth and dance performances by Mahima Venkatesh and Shweta Singh Kathak dancers.
Federation of India Community Associations of NE Ohio (FICA) hosted the annual India Independence Day celebration on August 19, 2012. The event included a Tennis Tournament and Cricket matches as well as traditional performances inside the Solon Community Center. Performers included the Bashi Group of Dancers and Bongra Folk Dance of Punjab.
Indian-American serial entrepreneur Naren Bakshi spoke at a special meeting at the Ariel International Center in Cleveland on August 3,2012 that included members of TiE Ohio and other area business leaders and entrepreneurs.
TiE Ohio Charter Members Harry Weller, Ratanjit Sondhe, Pradip Kamat, Naren Bakshi, Richard Herman, Radhika Reddy, Richard Eastburn and Raj Aggarwal
Cleveland is known as the 216 so when the 216th birthday of July 22, 2012 approached, Ohio Homecoming planned a huge party for the city and its people. There were performances, activities, food, music and camaraderie. The Indian community was well represented with a FICA booth and two performances.
Every year in later February or early March, India becomes awash in vibrant, bright colors as the Festival of Holi, (or the Festival of Color) is celebrated. Since it can be quite cold in Cleveland in March, this particular celebration was moved to June to allow for outdoor activities and, of course, colors.
On May 30, 2012, an intercultural group of people came together to raise funds for the Mother Teresa statue in the Albanian Cultural Garden as well as to meet new friends and have some fun. The event was created by immigration attorney and author Richard Herman, City Councilwoman Dona Brady and Federation Of India Community Associations of NE Ohio (FICA) president Asim Datta. FICA served as host of the event.
Dr. Gita Gidwani, Nisha Jain, Neelam Nagpal, Meera Kansal and (visiting from India) Shobhna Jain at the Mother Teresa event
Princeton Prize in Race Relations Tudor Arms Hotel - May 24, 2012 Congratulations to Shivangi Bhatia and Prateek Singh who were awarded Certificates of Accomplishment for 2012.
Martin Luther King (Leon Bibb), Rosa Parks (Sherrie Tolliver) and Mahatma Gandhi (Raj Pillai)
Dr. Jaya Shah
Dr Jaya Shah was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame on Wednesday May 9, 2012 in a ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott at Key Center. Ratanjit Sondhe gave the induction speech for Dr. Shah.
Raj Pillai, Stephen Sreshta, Samip Mallick and Michael Sreshta
Dr. Maina Singh spoke at the annual Diplomatic Seder on March 28, 2012. Dr. Singh recited a few lines from the Indian Prayer for a Future about colonialism.
Project Seva have been serving the community in Cleveland for years. For example, Project Seva has been working with St. Colman's Church at West 65th and Lorain since 1999. Last year, Project Seva served over 125,000 pounds of food in 3 churches and the American Indian Education Center.
The meal was sponsored by the Kasturi Kanada Association. Volunteers included:
Girish and Mrunalini Rao, and their kids Nayan and Maya.
Vishwa Basavalingappa and his daughter Amulya.
Naveen Uli and his daughter Amala.
Mamatha Girish
Mahesh Humchadakatte and his son Maneeth.
Vagesh and Keerthi Rajashekar and their son Karan.
The Project Love Gordon E. Heffern Award for Values, Ethics and Community was presented to Ratanjit Sondhe, the founder of Discoverhelp, at Landerhaven on November 30, 2011.
Ratanjit Sondhe
Ratanjit said that gratefulness is the foundation from which kindness and love comes.
Project Seva was well represented at the annual Philanthropia at Landerhaven on December 5, 2011
One of the Project Seva tables - Seated are Dr Santosh Kalhan, Nisha Jain, Mona Alag and Jagdish Dhameja.
Standing are Mr Surinder Kampani and Dr Shanta Kampani
The late Vijaya Emani received the 2011 Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation’s second-highest civilian honor, in a ceremony at the White House on October 20,2011.
The White House said, "Vijaya Emani became a role model for victims of domestic abuse because of her strength and determination in overcoming domestic abuse in her own life, and by speaking out about the issue publicly, she broke a long held taboo in the Indian American community. Emani lived and breathed many causes including projects to aid the homeless and promoting diversity. Although she was killed in a tragic vehicle accident, her example and message live on. Emani posthumously receives the Citizens Medal for her courage in overcoming and speaking out against abuse."
The Indian community was represented at One World Day by Sujata Burgess and Ramesh and Asha Mirakhur. They marched in the Parade of Flags.
Sujata Burgess and Ramesh and Asha Mirakhur
A group gathered at the Gandhi statue to support the modern Satyagraha against corruption
"We the well-wishers of India aspire to express our support for the modern Satyagraha movement against corruption launched by Shri Anna Hazare, by holding a silent sit-in."
The late and much loved Vijaya Emani was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame in a dinner ceremony on Wednesday May 11, 2011. She was introduced by Raj Pillai.
Vijaya Emani's daughters Sujata and Nirmala and mother with Raj Pillai
62nd Republic Day of India Mortal Men & Women and Their Immortal Words January 22, 2011 3 pages of photos and video from the event including a terrific play which featured Mahatma Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rabindranath Tagore, Indira Gandhi, Martin Luther King and Mother Teresa.
Raj Pillai as Mahatma Gandhi
2010
Philanthropia raised over $145,000 for local charities including Project Seva, the community service end of the Federation of India Community Associations of NE Ohio, or FICA. Kudos to Harlan Diamond and Executive Caterers team, The Singing Angels, Leon Bibb and all involved.
Dr. Shanta Kampani and Mona Alag sing along with the Singing Angels
Paramjit Singh speaks about Project Seva at Philanthropia
Mathangi Sridharan, Sujatha Srinivasan, Shriya Srinivasan and Mahima Venkatesh
The Cleveland Indian community was well-represented at the 2010 International Folk Festival. Members of FICA perfomed a Dandiya Raas traditional folk dance and Shweta's Kathak students of Tarangini School of Kathak Dance performed a Guru Vandana Kathak Dance.
Young Indian athletes march into Don Shula Stadium
The first annual city wide Cleveland Asian Festival was a resounding success! Over 10,000 people attended the event held Saturday May 22, 2010 at East 30th and Payne Ave.
FICA, Federation of India Community Associations(FICA) is an organization that represents the People of India who have emigrated to US and living in Cleveland, NE Ohio region. It represents 11,032 Indian Families emigrated to Cleveland and surrounding suburbs.
Asha for Education works for the underprivileged in India. It was started at UC Berkeley in 1991 and now has 12 chapters in India and 48 in US. Asha Cleveland started in 1996 and dispersed about $20,000 in 2010.
The Kerala Association of Ohio (KAOH) is a non-profit cultural organization that brings together the Malayalee community of north eastern Ohio. The association operates in the Greater Cleveland area, which boasts a strong legacy in manufacturing & healthcare and is known for its cultural diversity.
KAOH's mission is to be a regional organization for the Malayalee community to meet, socialize and develop partnerships with other similar organizations in pursuit of community cohesion and social inclusion. Towards this goal, the organization arranges cultural gatherings that are open to all. Welcome to the official website of KAOH (Kerala Association of Ohio). One of the major contributions of the association has been to create awareness in those who are unfamiliar with the richness of language, literature, art, music, dance and culture of Kerala.
North East Ohio Marathi Mandal (NEOMM) is a non-profit, non-political organization primarily engaged in promoting social and cultural aspects of the State of Maharashtra, of the Country of India, and particularly the Marathi language.
The Kasturi Kannada Cultural Association is a non-profit, social, linguistic and cultural organization; incorporated under the Non Profit Corporation act of the State of Ohio, to integrate, coordinate, network and unite the activities of all Kannadigas, to preserve and promote the Kannada language and culture in Northeast Ohio; celebrate, experience and enjoy authentic cuisine from various parts of Karnataka. It is a voluntary organization primarily run by donations and memberships from interested members of the general public.
Read more about the Indian and other Ambassadors. If you are interested in being considered to be an official ClevelandPeople.com Ambassador to the Cleveland Indian community, please contact us.
