BLOOMINGTON, MN: The annual India Association of Minnesota's dinner was held at the Embassy Suites in Minnesota last week.At the event, elegantly dressed guests participated in a social hour along with a formal Indian dinner. After the dinner, the program started with a choreographed dance by Rita Mustaphi of Kathak Dance Theater.

It was performed by Derek Philips, Anurag Sharma, Monica Singh, Priya Jain, Mukta Sathe and Sonali Garg. A welcome speech by Ravi Sura, President of India Association of Minnesota, followed. The keynote speaker of the evening was the first lady of the state of Minnesota, Mary Pawlenty.

Pawlenty spoke about her personal experiences during the trade mission to India with her husband Governor Tim Pawlenty, last October. She described her impressions of India, her visit to Manipal Hospital in Bangalore, and to Priyanka Child Life Services Program. The audience asked Pawlenty many questions about her insights.

The last part of the evening comprised presenting the IAM Achievement Awards to recognize individuals or organizations for achieving excellence in their respected professions and fields. These awards are meant to promote the interests of the Asian-Indian community in Minnesota and advancing understanding between the Indian community and community at large.

The award recipient for this year was the renowned Minnesota-based vocal artist, Nirmala Rajasekar. The award was presented to her by Pawlenty. Nirmala sang a couple of stanzas from her upcoming song release "Subha" (dawn), to conclude the evening in a very appropriate fashion.