LA PALMA, CA: The United Indian Associations of Southern California (UIASC), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, proudly hosted a sold-out celebration of India’s Independence Day at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in La Palma, California. The event brought together community members, dignitaries, and cultural performers for an evening of patriotism, tradition and unity.
The celebration featured cultural programs, patriotic songs, and vibrant dance performances. Guests enjoyed snacks, vegetarian and non-vegetarian dinner, and had the opportunity to connect with community leaders and dignitaries.
Chief Guest of the event, Dr. Kali Pradip Chaudhuri, joined Guests of Honor Consul Kulwant Singh, Vice Consul Priyanka Tyagi (CGI-LA), and Dr. Bharat Patel. Distinguished invited guests included U.S. Congresswoman Young Kim, California State Senator Tony Strickland, California Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, La Palma Mayor Mark I. Waldman, Congressman Raul Ruiz, Inglewood Mayor James Butts, Cerritos Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama, Zeel Ahir, and several councilmembers from surrounding cities.
The event commenced with a colorful parade, followed by a warm welcome from Ashok Patnaik. Sarumathi Shivakumar introduced UIASC President Kewal Kanda, who delivered an inspiring speech. Amrit Bhandari and Dr Sukrit Mukherjee shared inspirational messages about UIASC’s vision, and Dr. Priyadarshini led the U.S. and Indian national anthems. A recorded speech by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was played for attendees, followed by a video presentation curated by Sudip Gorakshakar.
The ceremonial lamp lighting, led by dignitaries, sponsors, and executives, set a tone of reverence and unity for the evening. Esteemed guests then took the stage to share brief yet impactful addresses. The cultural program commenced with a graceful rendition of Ganesh Vandana, followed by an array of captivating performances featuring classical and folk dances, stirring patriotic medleys, and powerful theatrical presentations. Dr. Kali Pradip Chaudhuri delivered an uplifting speech and was warmly felicitated by UIASC in recognition of his contributions. Hark Vasa introduced Dr. Bharat Patel, who delighted the audience with an inspiring address and a touch of humor through his engaging stand-up comedy. Consul Kulwant Singh spoke eloquently on the significance of Independence Day, leaving the audience both inspired and proud.
The cultural segment featured a captivating lineup of performances that kept the audience enthralled from start to finish. Dr. Sinduri Jayasinghe, Vinaini Jayasinghe, and their group delivered a spectacular drama portraying the life of freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju.
Surekha Modi infused the stage with vibrant energy through a traditional Gujarati Garba, while Geeta Bhatt presented a powerful rendition of Operation Sindoor. The program continued with a graceful Maharashtrian dance by Priya Kulkarni, the colorful Flavors of India presented by Suma Hareesh, a soul-stirring patriotic medley by Paulomi Pandit, the melodious Sakal Ban by Anvita, and a Bhangra performance by Daman Singh with Jodhvir Singh electrifying the audience with Bhangra. The grand finale featured a patriotic medley by all members, ending the cultural program on a high note.
Distinguished guests, including the Honorable Consul, addressed the audience, emphasizing the significance of India’s Independence Day and the value of cultural unity.
The event concluded with a grand patriotic medley finale, a vote of thanks, and the announcement of dinner for all attendees.
Generous contributions played a key role in the event’s success. Gold Sponsors included Dr. Gunvant & Ila Mehta, Dr. Sukrit & Jayesha Mukherjee, Pandit Vinod Dave, Ashok Patnaik, Walis Bank, State Bank of India (California), Kewal & Asha Kanda, Amrit & Sheela Bhandari, Hark & Kusum Vasa, Ashok & Manju Madan, and Radhika Patel. Silver Sponsors included Sudip Gorakshakar, Anil & Sona Desai, Smita & Kumar Shah, Aparna Hande, Indra Bakshi, Rajinder Dhunna, Baljinder Tahim, and Major Gurjeet Singh.
UIASC’s leadership and volunteer teams worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless celebration. The Executive Team included President Kewal Kanda, Convenor Dr. Sukrit Mukherjee, Treasurer Arvind Patel, Secretary Hark Vasa, Joint Secretary Yatish Shukla, and Cultural Chair Surekha Modi. Publicity Chair Nila Parikh and Booth Coordinator Radhika Patel ensured strong outreach and on-site engagement.
The Executive Committee included Amrit Bhandari (Chair, Cultural), Rajeshwari Kulkarni, Suma Hareesh, Priya Kumar (Youth), Smeeta Shah (Decorations), Sarumathi Shivakumar, Bani Mukherjee (Media), Dr. Rohini Joshi (Medical), Anila Bhasin, Indra Bakshi, Anil & Sona Desai, and Rani Kusino (Publicity), with Meera Gadasalli overseeing the Booth and Dr. Manorama Gupta managing Food. The Advisory Board consisted of Ashok Patnaik, Amrit Bhandari, Dr. Pradip Shukla, Dr. Rangaesh Gadasalli, Hashmukh Modi, and Sudip Gorakshakar.
This year’s celebration was not only about honoring India’s independence, but also about celebrating the culture, heritage, and unity. UIASC’s Independence Day celebration successfully showcased India’s diverse cultural heritage, strengthened community bonds, and honored the spirit of freedom.
The celebration saw a remarkable turnout, with the community coming together to honor India’s Independence Day.
(About UIASC – The United Indian Associations of Southern California (UIASC) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Indian heritage, culture, and unity within the Indian-American community of Southern California.)
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