SACRAMENTO, CA: Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA, Sacramento Chapter, keeping it’s tradition of bringing the Indo-American communities together, celebrated the event of Holi this year on March 30 at Elder Creek Temple, Sacramento.
Chapter President Mrs Ranju Verma welcomed the gathering of youth, children and senior citizens, narrating the significance of this festival of colors – Holi which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The transition to Spring brings with it, for a large number of us, the longing for our mother’s homemade sweets, shenanigans with watercolor playing with our siblings, as well as many other traditions of Holi.
The function started with the playing of traditional Dhol (drum) creating an ambience of festivity. Bollywood music, powdered color in the air, colorful faces and a whole crowd alternating between dance and zumba energized each and every one of the nearly 500 participants of all age groups, including babies in strollers, gathered to enjoy this festival of Holi.
The festive nature brought out the inner youth in all of its participants – from children to the elderly, teenagers, parents, toddlers and babies in arms, from all sections of society. Participants wished each other happy Holi as they engaged themselves in smearing color on one another, bursting to the moves of zumba and promoting fun. Ekal volunteers started the day early from 5am to prepare healthy sumptuous and authentic Indian food for all the participants.
Congressman Dr Ami Bera, California 7th District Director Faith Whitmore and Congressman Dr Ami Bera Field Representative/Caseworker Keaton Riley, Elk Grove Unified School District Council Member Bobby Singh Allen and Dr B.P. Lathi, an eminent educationist of Sacramento and charter member Ekal, were invited by Dr Harsh Verma, Advisory Member to Ekal Sacramento Chapter, as guest speakers to the event.
Faith Whitmore appreciated the efforts of the Indian American community to get together and celebrate Holi for such a great cause. The entire community was happy and felt greatly privileged and honored to receive the Certificate of Congressional Recognition to the Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA, Sacramento Chapter on behalf of Congressman Ami Bera, commemorating Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation for their commitment to education and village development in rural India.
The certificate was received by Ranju Verma, President, Ekal Vidyalaya Sacramento Chapter and all volunteers including Sunanda Kumathe, Shivesh Sinha, Arvind and Divya on behalf of Ekal Sacramento community.
Bobby Allen gave a thought-provoking speech, highlighting the remarkable work done by Ekal India for tribal education and welfare. Dr Lathi spoke about the importance of education and gave a handsome donation to support multiple Ekal schools.
The event was sponsored by various organizations and well-wishers. The event was concluded by a vote of thanks by chapter president to sponsors, participants and volunteers. Participants showered accolades on the Ekal volunteers for arranging the event professionally in a very well organized manner.
India Post News Service
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