India Post News Service
DALLAS, Texas: An Indian American Festival was organized by the Indian American Friendship Council (IAFC) May 4 2019 in Dallas with the theme of “Merge into the Mainstream”. It was attended by over 3,000 people.
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson brought a proclamation from Texas State Senate declaring May 4 as “Indian American Day”. Texas State Congress member Terry Meza also read a proclamation from the Texas State House of Representatives lauding the efforts of Indian American Friendship Council in building better and stronger relations between the largest and oldest democracies, India and USA.
It was an evening of family, fun and entertainment comprising many kids’ activities like petting zoo, pony rides, mehandi, face painting, bounce house, stilt walkers, balloons giveaway. Kids enjoyed thoroughly running around with tricolor Indian & US Flag balloons hopping from one booth to the other to enjoy various activities.
More than 500 Indian American youth enthralled the audience with their dance skills in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi, and folk dance items. American youth from Coppell High School band captivated the audience by playing different musical instruments. US Senator Ted Cruz presented commendation certificates to all the participants.
Kranthi Kumar, known as Drillman of India, and who participated in America Has Got Talent, was a star attraction at this event.
IAFC President Dr Prasad Thotakura and Board of Directors felicitated Kranthi Kumar and bestowed him with Saahasa Veera award for his extraordinary skills.
Senior Democrat and US Congress member Eddie B. Johnson, wh was Chief Guest of Honor,said: “USA is a melting pot and a land of opportunity for immigrants. There is no placefor discrimination in this country, I applaud the contributions of the Indian Americans for the economic growth of the USA especially in the state of Texas. I appreciate the initiative taken by IAFC to host this important major event.”
Texas State Representatives Julie Johnson and Matt Shaheen, in their remarks, encouraged Indian Americans to participate more actively in the US policy-making process. Jay Chaudhuri, who recently got elected as North Carolina State Senator and Manka Dhingra, Washington State Senator, narrated the process of Indians getting into the mainstream political system and the importance of working hand in hand with mainstream to make a difference.
Anurag Kumar, Minister, Community Affairs, at the Indian Embassy, Washington DC, reiterated the pivotal role of Indian Americans in strengthening ties between India and the US. Coppell city Council member Biju Matthew, Coppell city police chief Danny Barton and Coppell city superintendent Brad Hunt attended as Special Guests of Honor.
Dr stated that “the unified voice of millions of Indian Americans makes a significant impact in the community”.
“It is important to merge into the mainstream while preserving our cultural heritage with active involvement and engagement. As the more educated, affluent, law abiding US citizens, we certainly can make a big difference,” he said
Rao Kalvala, IAFC Board of Director, oversaw the Voter Registration Drive initiated by IAFC at this event.
Raja Krishnamoorthi, US Congress member, Padma Kuppa, Michigan State Representative, US Senator John Cornyn and US Senator Ted Cruz sent video messages appreciating the decades of service of IAFC.
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