India Day 2008: Celebrating Indian Independence - IAGB's Annual Showcase of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity at Boston's Hatch Shell/Esplanade

India Day 2008: IAGB's Annual Showcase of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity at Boston's Hatch Shell/Esplanade

Click here or on the below photo to see a slideshow of photos from India Day 2007

BOSTON, Aug 12, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Boston's Hatch Memorial Shell/Esplanade on Storrow Drive in Boston is all set to come alive on Sunday, August 17, 2008, from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. with the upcoming India Day 2008, a free, spectacular cultural event. About 500 dancers, singers and musicians will enthrall an expected 15,000 people with a diverse selection of vibrant performances showcasing the rich traditions, culture and heritage of India.

The occasion is the commemoration of the 61st anniversary of India's independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, hosted by India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB).

"The celebration of the independence of the world's largest democracy in the heart of Boston, the "cradle of liberty," will be an enjoyable and memorable family event. We expect over 15,000 people to attend this year," said IAGB President Rita Shah.
"The prime attraction is the cultural program presented by talented local performers. It will include: colorful and vibrant dance numbers, music items, Bollywood dances, traditional, regional and modern folk dances, as well as classical dance styles like Bharatanatyam and Odissi, and high-energy folk dances like the Garba, Gidda and Bhangra."

Indian food will be available for purchase. In addition, several Indian American organizations will set up informational booths on the lawns. Activities will range from henna paintings to complimentary health check ups by the Indian Medical Association of New England, to activities by the Museum of Science.

"India Day is IAGB's flagship annual event, made possible by the sheer dedication and hard work of its volunteers. The result of their efforts is a scintillating program and the perfect venue for the area's entire Indian American community to get together and celebrate its deep cultural roots and India's beautiful heritage," said IAGB Vice President Mohan Dali.

A five-member cultural committee led by Chairperson Ganesh Davuluri and supported by the 16-member executive committee has been working diligently for months to produce the event.

About IAGB
The India Association of Greater Boston has been serving the Indian American community in the Greater Boston area since 1962. Its mission is to preserve and foster Indian culture, and to strengthen Indo-American friendship.

SOURCE: India Association of Greater Boston
Press Contact: Ganesh Davuluri