On Saturday, Aug. 23, the Indo-American Cultural Association of the CSRA (IACA) celebrated the 79th Indian Independence Day, at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center. The theme for the event this year was Big Fat Indian Wedding.
The event was a vibrant, colorful celebration filled with performances, distinguished speakers, shopping opportunities, and delicious Indian food. Guest speakers included Ramesh Babu Lakshamanan (Consul General of India), Mayor Garnett Johnson, Congressman Rick Allen, and several other community leaders. There was a variety of food on the menu for purchase, including traditional Indian dishes such as samosas, tandoori chicken, pakora and mango lassi. The theme of the event was interwoven through every detail and focused on “unity” of the past, present and future of the Indian community of the CSRA.
Sona Lal and daughter, Siya Lal, have been performing in the India Day celebration for the past 14 years. This year, they are playing the characters of the bride and the bride’s mother. Their performances paid tribute to their past, as well as their future with references to both Indian and American culture.
“It truly warms my heart as I think about all of the awe-inspiring things that the Indian American Community does, not only for Augusta, but to pass on inspiration to the next generation,” said Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson.
Alison Couch, the District 4 Commissioner and vice chair of the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, spoke on behalf of the Board of Commissioners about the importance of the community being celebrated.
“The sacrifices made in the spirit of freedom and patriotism should always be honored and we are proud to be here tonight and celebrate the courage and determination of this historical day,” Couch said.
Sheila Kamath, a member of the Hindu Temple Society of Augusta who conveyed the importance of this celebration, spoke at the event.
“The younger generations (of Indian Americans) participate, alongside the older generations (of Indian Americans),” Kamath excitedly said.
She continued and discussed the Indo-American Cultural Associations’ involvement with various charities and outreach in the Augusta community.
According to their website, the Indo-American Cultural Association of the CSRA is a non-profit organization that serves as the cultural bridge between the local community of Indians and Americans. The organization’s mission is to promote the Indian traditions and to stay united by a common bond of Indian heritage and American commitment. For more information, visit https://iacaaugusta.org/index.html.
