Tri Valley Kannada Sangha Proudly presents – Rajyotsava 2014 . Mayor of San Ramon, Bill Clarkson will be our attending chief guest . We invite everyone to join the fun and be a part of our ” Kannada Habba” .
Date: 11/15/2014
Time: 11 – 4:00 PM
Email: tvkscommunit…@g…com
Category Archives: Culture
FIA 2014 Diwali Mela in Pleasanton Fairgrounds Oct 25
Come, Join, and Celebrate Diwali – The festival of lights – Parade & Fireworks on October 25, 2014 Saturday – at Alameda County Fairgrounds
Time: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm
Raas Garba | Time: 12:00 midnight
4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Every year this event showcases Indian culture and heritage through Mela (Fair), booths, dances and floats to mainstream Americans and the next generation.
Screening of selected movies from “San Francisco Global Movie Fest” and awards celebrations will be included in this years 22nd Festival of India and Parade 2014 organized by FIA.
Hundreds of volunteers participate to cherish our values and entertain the attendees.
Through Health Fair, over 100 physicians and other health professionals give free testing and advice
- There will be a host of Superstars, Dignitaries, Cricketers and Politicians as invited guests.
- Free Health Fair including Medical Checkup, General checkup, Women’s Health, Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, Cholestrol, Dental , Stress Control and many other health related issues.
- As in past years, thousands of Indo-Americans, Mainstream Americans and other ethnic communities are expected to attend the festival over a two day period.
- Over 120 booths depicting art, crafts, literature, garments, jewelry, food, businesses and other resources.
- Over 50 floats representing different states of India, Indian American community and businesses.
- Festival theme is to promote diversity and democracy and build bridges between various communities.
Onam Celebration on Sunday, Sept 14th – Trivalley neighborhoods
SanGaMa- The Kerala group in tri-valley area, is planning to celebrate Onam festival on Sunday, September 14th. Please see the details at http://www.sangama.us/.
Please let me know if you have any questions. Sorry for the late post.
Thanks,
Vijay
H: 925-556-9375
Indian Vocal Music – Hindustani Classical Ravindrasangeet Nazrulgeeti Teacher
For further details contact 623-692-8183 for tutoring in Indian Vocal Music – Hindustani Classical / Ravindrasangeet / Nazrulgeeti
Art CLasses & Summer Art Labs
Weekly Classes – 1 hour of Art explorations. All materials provided.
Classes taught by Architect & Certified Art Educator in studio environment. Walk in to check out other student’s artworks, ongoing art projects & studio.
Summer Labs starting July 15th. -from sketching to watercolor to mixed media.
Details On www.theArtProcess.net
Studio at: 6743 Dublin Blvd, Ste #34. Dublin-CA. (near Taal dance studio)
Also, traditional Indian Art Lab -from Varli to miniature to Tanjore .. various styles, curious discussions of rich heritage of each style… (I love it & it just is so wonderful when young generation gets enthusiastic about traditional Indian Art)
Maya Kherani featured in Livermore Valley Opera at the Firehouse Theater in Pleasanton
One Saturday Only!
“Coffee and Seduction at Firehouse”
Saturday, May 24th at 2:00pm
Firehouse Arts Center
4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton, CA
Two one-act classic comedies are given a fresh East Bay twist in this hilarious double bill. These family friendly masterpieces will charm you with their stunning music, and tickle your funny bone with lots of laughs. Comedies sung in Italian with English projections.
Tickets: Children$10
Adults $30-$35
Purchase Tickets: www.livermorevalleyopera.com
Comedy # 1: The Coffee Cantata by Johann Sabastian Bach – Bach’s ode to coffee is one all East Bay Area residents can relate to. When a father struggles to break his daughter’s ever-increasing caffeine habit, a coffee shop becomes a battleground in the quest for the perfect drink.
Cast:
Narrator – Michael Desnoyers, Tenor – A regular with San Francisco Opera Guild and Livermore Valley Opera.
Herr Schlendrian – Sergey Khalikulov, Bass-Baritone – Portland Opera and San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Firehouse 2014 9
Liesgen – Maya Kherani, Soprano – Indian-American Mechanical Engineer from Princeton University (summa cum laude) with minors in Music Performance, Materials Science, and Robotics and Intelligent Systems. At Princeton, she was awarded the prestigious Isidore and Helen Sacks Prize for excellence in music performance. Maya currently attends Stanford University as a Master’s student in Mechanical Engineering. She recently completed her Masters degree in Vocal Performance at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where she studied with Pamela Fry. At SFCM, she was awarded for her outstanding achievement in the departments of Opera, New Music, and Voice. Maya was recently praised for her sparkling voice and stage presence with Houston Grand Opera.
Comedy #2: La Serva Padrona (The Servant Mistress) by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi – A wealthy but grumpy bachelor’s life is turned upside down when his crafty maid sets out to seduce him. Will her increasingly wacky schemes win the day or will she lose his heart – and her job?
Cast:
Uberto – Sergey Khalikulov, Bass-Baritone – Portland Opera and San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Serpina – Gabrielle Traub, Soprano – Won the Lisa and Bernie Kalvelage Award at The Henry Holt West Bay Opera competition.
Vespone – Alan Briones, Tenor – Livermore Valley Opera and New York City Opera
Event includes a tasty reception with the opera singers and LVO Music & Artistic Director, Alex Katsman.
Firehouse Arts Center 4444 Railroad Avenue Pleasanton, CA 94566
Information: (925) 931-4850
Box Office: (925) 931-4848
Hours: Wednesday through Friday, 12-6pm
Saturday, 10-4pm
Also two (2) hours prior to show time
New batch of carnatic music and sloka classes
Opening new batch of carnatic music classes and sloka classes for juniors and seniors
Please contact Prema at 925 426 0107 or 925 314 5830 to register for the new batch starting at:
5270 case ave C402
Pleasanton ca 94566
The carnatic music and sloka classes are by experienced teacher who has more than 40 years.
Kids Bollywood Dance Classes – Spring Session 2014
Announcing a new Spring Dance Session, starting from 20th March 2014 for 10 weeks. This Bollywood dance program will help kids to improve their motor skill with some cool dance moves. It is a wonderful opportunity for kids to get social with their age group beyond classroom and learn synchronization and coordination as a team. On top of that they will be more disciplined by listening and following dance directions. To provide individual attention we keep small group for these classes. Proposed class schedules are:
Each of these group classes will run for 10 weeks for a nominal $120 only, with an additional $10 registration fee only for first time participant.
Kids will enjoy these dance classes; dance studio is conveniently located near Dougherty Elementary School in Dublin. Hurry up and sign up soon online at http://danceonrhythm.com or send mail at [email protected]
Feel free to call Archana @ 510-990-0242/510-305-0242 to get more information.
the INDIAN umbrella in Tri-city area in the Trivalley
to ALL the INDIAN-ORIGIN residents of the cities of Dublin, Pleasanton, & Livermore:
We should feel the urge to have a common group with disregard to all the regions where we hail from in India, language, creed. I’m sure everybody is unique and have their own set of interests, taste but we probably do cross roads with each other (as in physically in our day-to-day commute and in our interests, needs, and wants). There is nothing like an absolute conglomeration of unified diversity.
So when and if you come across this thread and feel the same way or not…………….take a plunge and be a part of what you are and will be! Wherever you live in these 3 cities (Dublin, Pleasanton, & Livermore) and whatever you do come celebrate INDIANNESS. Do not forget to record your email in your response and spread the word to your friends and relatives.
Let’s get this going and help all our fellow Indians along with our own self.
Carnatic vocal lessons offered in and around Dublin, CA
Vidushi Chandrika Pai is an accomplished Carnatic vocalist, performer and teacher. She has been teaching and performing in the US for the past 11 years. Her repertoire comprises traditional Carnatic gems, timeless Kannada compositions of Purandara Dasa and other composers, evergreen Marathi abhangs, Annamacharya’s keertanas in Telugu, and popular Konkani devotional songs.
Students are provided with both theoretical and practical aspects of the vocal art form, while adhering to a traditional guru-parampara style.
Currently accepting students at beginner through advanced levels in the Dublin, San Ramon, Pleasanton area.
Contact: [email protected] or 515-708-0046 for details.
Visit www.chandrikapai.com
A Unique Musical concert – Parama Prema
Nandalala Mission, a 501(c)(3) entity located in the bay area, has a long history of community service throughout the United States. This 100% volunteer run organization focuses on nurturing children’s fullest potential through educational, cultural and service oriented activities
Nandalala Mission is hosting a benefit musical concert on November 23rd in Palo Alto. Sangeetha Vidhushi Smt. Jayashree Varadarajan, Founder of Sri Rama Lalitha Kala Mandir School of Fine Arts, in Sunnyvale, is producing and performing Pro Bono, a unique production called “Parama Prema, A Celebration of Divine Love”, expressing the spirit of selfless service through music.
There will be over one hundred students for the two-hour musical performance. Paired with authentic costumes, beautiful narration and a talented orchestra, the exquisite rendering of pure classical music by vocalists promises to be an exhilarating and uplifting experience.
Attend the concert or sponsor a music lover to attend. Tickets are $100, $30, $20.
When: November 23, 2013
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00PM (seating begins at 3:30)
Where: Spangenberg Auditorium
780 Arastradero Road
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Contact: (408) 498-1604 or [email protected]
Tickets available on Sulekha
http://events.sulekha.com/parama-prema-a-celebration-of-divine-love_event-in_palo-alto-ca_290544
Proceeds of this concert will go towards community outreach programs of Nandalala Mission such as Back to School Drive, Youth Concerts, Matruseva, Project Balakrishna, and Health care initiatives in US & India. Visit http://www.nandalala.com for details.
Your decision to attend this event will go a long way in helping the community!
Sloka Class in San Ramon
Hi, I am doing a cultural program for children teaching the values of ancient Indian culture . The curriculum focuses on Slokas, Bhajans, Epic stories, and the significance of Indian festivals with primary emphasis on nourishing the values of our culture. Little kids have short attention spans, and will wander off or start doing their own thing if we lose their attention. So I will break the class up into lots of little sections with slokas, stories and other fun activities. I would like to take the opportunity to impart my knowledge and hence bring in awareness of our Indian culture through fun activities!
For more information, contact me in [email protected]
Thanks.
Dheem Thara Dance School Pleasanton
Bharathanatyam [Kalakshetra Bani Style] classes, Indian semi classical dance classes (Fusion of Kuchipudi, Bharathanatyam, Mohiniyattam etc), Bollywood dance choreography, Indian folk dances.
My Gurus: Smt. Shobha Rani Shashidharan, Padmashri Kshemavathi, Sri. Sunil Nellay [nellaydance.com], Smt. Kalakshethra Jyothi
Contact:
Name: Sangeetha
Phone: 408 480 4856
Adress: 5116 Orsini Ct, Pleasanton, CA 94588
SanGaMa- theTrivalley Malayali (Kerala) group!
Due to our growth over the years, we have folks from all over tri-valley and hence we recently renamed our group to “SanGaMa” to mean gathering of Malayali community in the trivalley area. Check out our new website at http://www.sangama.us/ . If you have roots in Kerala and are living in Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Danville or planning to move here, you will find the group helpful.
We recently celebrated Onam with much fanfare and are getting started with planning our Christmas get-together. Check out the site for more details or join our facebook page. Check out the videos and pics at the website!
What is SanGaMa ?
Started in late 2009, this a friendly group started for the benefit of Malayalis living in San Francisco East Bay locations like San Ramon, Dublin, Danville and Pleasanton … We celebrate festivals of Kerala like Onam,Vishu, Christmas/New Year etc…This also functions as a forum for networking with other Malayali (Kerala) families in the area. We have periodic get-togethers for our main events or we go for short-trips in the bay area or we just hang out with one another occasionally! If you know of other families with roots in Kerala in the neighborhood who might be interested, please spread the word.
People living in San Ramon, Dublin, Danville & Pleasanton areas would find this group useful. It includes major communities like Windemere and Gale Ranch in San Ramon.
We are a friendly group..so feel free to join !
Thanks,
Vijay
http://www.sangama.us/
Contact us at : [email protected]
SEF Dandia 2013 – Pleasanton
This year’s SEF Dandiya will be held at Pleasanton Middle School, 5001 Case Ave, Pleasanton, CA 94566 on Saturday, OCT 19 2013 7:30PM
Tickets can be bought at New India Bazaar, Dublin and Kamal Spices, Pleasanton
Early bird (till Sept 30) $15, Regular $17, at door $20.
EMAIL TO REGISTER FOR FREE DANDIA LESSONS – [email protected]
GROUP DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR 50 OR MORE TICKETS – Contact [email protected] for more info.
Free Dandiya Sticks may be available for the event.
Dandiya Night at Alisal Elementary, Pleasanton – 27th Sep
An evening of Dandiya in support of a local school. All proceeds will go to Alisal Elementary, Pleasanton
Location: Multi Purpose Room, Alisal Elementary, 1454 Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton
Date: Friday 27th Sep 2013
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Fee: $10 (5 yrs and under are free)
Free Dance tutorial session from 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
For tickets, contact – Giri Lankipalle (201-606-3949)
Dharma and Yoga Fest in Pleasanton
Listen to Anuradha Paudwal and others over Kirtan, enjoy classical dance and music, indulge in Yoga, and for kids, they can enjoy the Balgopal Theme Park, or watch Krishna Leela, a performance by no less than 250 kids of Balgokulam. Top this with free food, free entrance, and free parking. All this at Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA on September 14, 2013 from 11 AM till 9 PM.
This well publicized pan-Bay Area event is being organized under the aegis of different organizations. The main organizers of the event is Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) with the support from local organizations. If you are in the tri valley area, you may see posters saying Sri Dutta Sai Mandir, San Ramon, and at other places its the Fremont or Sunnywale Hindu temple. The event has different sponsors for the consumption of different geographies in the Bay Area.
Ultimately, it is to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, with a tag line of Universal Peace Through Dharma and Yoga.
There is also a performance by Jay Uttal, a ‘Spiritual Music Composer and Singer’ and Karnamrita Dasi and the group Kirtaniyas. The dignitaries expected to attend are Dr. Ved Nanda, Paramacharya Palaniswami, Sannyasin Senthilnathaswami, Sister Denise Lawrence and Swami Prasannatmananda. What stands out is that many of them have made a name from themselves, though they are not from India.
Supporting local Organization are Sri Datta Sai Mandir – San Ramon, Shea homes, Geeta Society, Art of Living, and the support is rounded off by Mata Amritanandmayi Center and Shiva-Vishnu Temple, Livermore. There are many more organizations and individuals that have a role in the program, including sessions by Brahma Kumaris, and others.
The organizers have taken care to cover every aspect of the culture – from Dandiya, Tabla, Bhangra, Folk Dances, Mrudungam, Bharatnayam, Kathak, Geeta Recital to Patriotic songs.
If it is what it promises to be, its worth a visit this coming Saturday!
Teeyan – Gidha, Bhangra, Skits and DJ in Livermore
Gidha, Bhangra, Skits and DJ on August 11, 2013 from 10 AM to 5:00 PM at Robert Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Avenue, Livermore, CA.
Presented by Indian American Cultural Society, Livermore. Tickets $5, and $7 at the door. Hosted by Asha Sharma and catering by Chaat Bhavan. Tickets available at Indian stores or call 925-321-8712 or 408-425-6816.
Free Therapy Yoga Workshop for Back Pain
The first workshop is free and will include the following
- Yogic counseling
- Assesment of each participant
- Breathing techniques
- Asanas with breathing awareness
- Deep relaxation technique
- Pranayam
Saturdays:
Time: 7.30am to 9.00am or
Time: 10:00am to 11:30am
Please contact if you want to attend on a weekday or any other time slot.
Venue : 2110 Omega Road Suit C San Ramon CA 94583; Please call 925-529-7943 or email [email protected] for confirmation.
Enrollment in Yoga course after the workshop will provide you one more free session. Yoga package with 10 sessions cost $100 only.
* No walk-ins allowed. You have to contact us before coming for the 1st class.
Learn to Meditate – From Movement to Stillness, From Sound to Silence!
Many people have an interest in meditation, but find that attempts to focus and concentrate the mind are difficult – as well as unsuccessful! What is needed is a meditation that is simple and effortless, one that utilizes the natural tendency of the mind, rather than trying to subdue it.
The Art of Meditation teaches Sahaj Samadhi, an ancient practice that allows the conscious mind to settle deeply into itself in a natural, easy way. Rather than being tedious or complicated, this meditation is enjoyable and relaxing. As the mind settles down, it simply lets go of tension and stress, and centers itself in the present moment. This meditation takes no concentration, is easy to learn, and the results are immediate. Sahaj means natural. Samadhi means the state of deep peace and rest that underlies all of our thought and activity.
The effect of this practice is to integrate the inner world of rest, peace and joy with the outer world of action and achievement. This integration of the inner and outer produces spiritual growth — natural unfoldment of who you are, full development of body, mind and heart! The profound rest gained during meditation affects every aspect of life, bringing fresh energy and a quiet mind.
The first session of your course will include personal instruction. During the following sessions, we will meet in a group.
Link to register : http://secure.artofliving.org/course_details.aspx?course_id=13355
Contact: Vaishali at 5109672380
Dates: Nov 3rd to 5th
Address: Art of Living, TriValley Center
6690 Amador Plaza Rd., # 215
Dublin, CA 94568.
Study Session on Upanishads
Spirituality is the concern for spirit. A host of questions arise from this concern. These questions are to be organized properly and their answers searched systematically if we want to understand the nature of spirituality and its relevance to our lives. Only then we can hope to graduate from blind belief that makes an awful life tolerable to genuine faith that reveals the beauty of freedom and creativity in a life filled with meaning. By addressing the questions that arise from the concern for spirit directly Upanishads attempt to discover the yoga that connects the spirit with worldly life.
The ideas contained in the Upanishads are timeless. They are capable of being applied in any context. Meaningful enhancement of identity through creativity, maintaining a balanced quality existence and finding one’s true relevance are ideas that remain fresh at all times in all places and contexts. These are the essential concerns for any entity during its existence in this world. Upanishads recognize that to address these issues effectively one has to go beyond the plane where these occur and organize the wedding of the esoteric with the mundane.
I am planning to have a study session on Upanishads at San Ramon from the first week of March 2013.
For a theme note on the session please go to https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a_EzrkB91Ird871EUj1lRoFUcBMhIqzSrLIc_-bInHM/edit
The sessions will be conducted during the weekends. This is essentially a programme addressed to young adults. All young persons in the age group 18 – 60 years are welcome.
Interested persons may please contact me at [email protected].
Alameda County Fairgrounds hosts Diwali Celebration Sat, Oct 27
Diwali Celebration – Federation of Indian Associations and Fremont Hindu Temple are organizing a grand celebration that promises fun for the entire family with cultural program, kids corner, entertainment, parade booths, real animals, gourmet food and fireworks.
Saturday, October 27
Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
(510) 659-0655
Gungun Kapoor total desi entertainment
Make your party a super hit with Gungun’s total desi entertainment. Your guests will be on their feet in no time.
Big parties, small parties. We work within your budgetAnd sit down with you to plan to make your event a grand success.
Make life a celebration. NOW!! www.gungunkapoor.com
Soundaralahari classes
I am starting Soundaralahari classes from September in Pleasanton. Please contact Premalatha at 925 426 0107.
- The Soundarya Lahari meaning “Waves Of Beauty” is a famous literary work in Sanskrit.
- SoundaryaLahari is a series of 100 slokas composed by Adi Sankaracharya.
Upcoming Art of Living Course Aug 23rd – Aug 26th 2012
Course Benefits
Breathing techniques to eliminate stress & tension
Skills for improving relationships at home and at work
Tools to handle your mind & negative emotions
Learn Sudarshana Kriya
An Immensely powerful technique that incorporates specific natural rhythms of breath to release stress and purify the entire system by releasing toxins at the deepest cellular level
Course Details & Contacts
August 23rd – Aug 26th
Weekdays 7.00 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
Weekends 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.
Art Of Living – Tri Valley Center
6690 Amador Plaza Road, Suit 215
Dublin, CA – 94568
Contact
Sunil : Ph (510) 593-5858 email: [email protected]
Ram : Ph (408) 569-6077 email: [email protected]
Secure.ArtOfLiving.Org
To register for Art of Living Course please click flyer or visit:
http://secure.artofliving.org/course_details.aspx?course_id=12848
Spice up at the Alameda County Fair
Mark June 23 and 24 to be at the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton – the two days celebrate the Spice of India Festival with a lot of food and culture.
There is live cooking demo and food, cultural booths, Best of the Bay Samosa Contest, and what not. See details below, and in the flyer.
The Alameda County Fair is celebrating turning 100. This year’s Centennial celebration includes the return of the downtown Pleasanton Parade, a brand new concert format, and a variety of distinctive memorabilia chronicling its 100 year history.
SATURDAY, JUNE 23
Noon – 2nd Best of Bay Samosa
Rolling & Cooking Contest
1:15 pm Yoga & Meditation
1:30 pm Travel to India, No Passport Needed
3:00 pm Bollywood Fitness
3:30 pm Contemporary Dance & Music
4:30 pm Live Bollywood Music & Karaoke
5:30 pm Recognition & Vote of Thanks
SUNDAY, JUNE 24
Noon – Cooking Demo by
Famous Bay Area Chefs
1:15 pm Yoga & Meditation
1:30 pm Travel to India, No Passport Needed
3:00 pm Contemporary Dance & Music
4:30 pm Live Bollywood Music & Karaoke
5:30 pm Recognition & Vote of Thanks
Bollywood – Henna – Great Indian Live Cooking demo & food – Cultural booths – Traditional dance across various Indian states – Live Music * Yoga
Best Of the Bay SAMOSA Contest
SATURDAY, JUNE 23RD • 12 p.m.
More information: [email protected] • Krishna Kumar, 510-213-1223, [email protected]
Giddha Competition in Castro Valley
Tor Punjaban Di IV, North America’s Premier Giddha Competition…The show will be held on June 9, 2012 in Castro Valley, California with 2 competition categories: live and music.
WHERE:Center for the Arts, 20575 Santa Maria Avenue, Castro Valley, CA 94546
WHEN:Saturday, JUN 09 2012
1:00PM
HOSTED BY:Tor Punjaban Di
Mantra Sadhana Seminar – Art Of Living Tri Valley
A rare opportunity to learn the meaning and correct chanting of the Mantras – this is the very first Mantra Sadhana Seminar being hosted in the TriValley Area.
What is a mantra? “Mananaat traayate iti mantrah” – That which helps the mind to transcend, that which saves you from repetitiveness is a mantra. A repetitive thought is a worry. Mantras help to free you from worries. Mantras are universal and can be chanted by anyone. Since 5000 years, people have achieved higher states of consciousness, attained supreme peace and experienced bliss by chanting mantras.
The seminar teaches the correct intonation and meaning of popular ancient Sanskrit Mantras. Knowing the meaning of the mantra invokes peace, love, and leads to a meditative state. Chanting mantras creates subtle vibrations that affect the consciousness in a positive way.
This workshop is open to anyone above 16 yrs of age. The course consists of theoretical background on different branches of Vedas and basics of Vedic chanting with its specific style consisting of udaat (high), anudaat (low) and svarit (middle) notes. This course also covers common Mantras and ensures that the student understands the meaning of the Mantras and master the correct intonation for chanting the mantras
This will be taught by Prof V. Sastry who is an Engineering Professor and is a priest at Halifax Hindu Temple in Canada.
Introduction to Mantra Sadhna Seminar and Interview with SastryJi:
Register for the course at http://aoljgd.org/MSS
Hindu Heritage Camp for Kids Apr 8
We are having a Hindu Heritage Camp for kids (age 5 yrs to 13 yrs) at Dublin Library on 8th April (Sunday) from 1 PM – 4:30 PM. With a perfect blend of cultural activities, games and sports and religious lessons, HHC is proven to be an effective medium to impart Hindu values to the children while they make many friends. The following are the activities to be held the coming Sunday afternoon:
- Ice Breakers for kids to get acquainted with others and feel comfortable as a group.
- Warm-up exercises for kids to get ready to play games.
- Games where kids have fun and channelize their loads of energy.
- Shlokas to be recited during various times of a day – waking up, food, study time, sleep.
- Art and Crafts to realize their innate creativity and artistic talents.
- Story telling where kids learn moral and historic stories to develop great character.
- Discussions where they can address common challenges faced by kids at school.
There will finally be a kids performance of what they learn as well. Please register immediately at http://bit.ly/hhcpleasanton.
Where: Dublin Library, 200 Civic Plaza, Dublin, CA 94568
When : April 8th, 2012
Time: 1 PM – 4:30 PM
Fees: $11/Family (goes towards Balgokulam souvenir and Balagokulam magazine annual subscription)
Contact: Smita @ 925-354-4396 and Shailaja @ 925-931-0654
Email id: [email protected]
Forward it to all those who want their kids to be confident Hindus!
Tamil Chithirai Thiruvizha in Pleasanton Apr 14
Tamil activities continue to take center stage with Tamil Manram bringing a FREE fun filled afternoon of events at Hart Middle School, Pleasanton for traditional Chithirai Thiruvizha.
Chithirai Thiruvizha (Festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Chitirai) is an annual celebration during the month of April, with roots in Madurai. It is one of the longest celebrations of the world and lasts for one month. The first 15 days of the festival is celebrated for Meenakshi, and the next 15 days are celebrated for Alagar.
Chithirai Thiruvizha 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 2 PM
Hart Middle School
4433 Willow Road
Pleasanton, CA 94588
- புலி வேஷம், மயிலாட்டம், ஒயிலாட்டம், பொய்க்கால் குதிரை, முளப்பாரி வைத்தல், பூக்கோலம், காட்சிப் படங்கள், காணொளிகளுடன் கூடிய கண்காட்சி, பொருட்காட்சி
- பம்பரம், பல்லாங்குழி, பரமபதம், பாண்டியாட்டம் போன்ற விளையாட்டுக்களின் செயல்முறை விளக்கங்கள்
- கனிவான நிகழ்ச்சிகள், போட்டிகள் மற்றும் பரிசுகள்
Happy Holi, and too bad no Holi colors this year as well
Happy Holi!
After the grand Holi Dhamaal in 2010 organized by TVIA in the Emerald Glen Park in Dublin, we saw no one coming forward to organize one last year, and of course not this year as well. Holi sure is a fun time. Its one time when even strangers from the community can come together and get playful with each other. Bonhomie, dance, music is in the air. The fun is unique in itself, and sets up a good, interesting instance of an Indian festival for children.
If we don’t see an impromptu gathering in the Emerald Glen park, or elsewhere in the Tri Valley Area on the weekends of 10th/11th March, or even the next one, lets see if some of us would like to step up in ensuring we don’t go without one next year (2013).
Please participate in the poll below, if you can. Please provide an update for others if you or some group you know plans to get together to throw some colors for this year as well.
[polldaddy poll=6017680]
Please contact admin[a]trivalleydesi.com if you would like to help organize next year.
Tamil Pattimanram Entertainment Festival in San Ramon
Tamil Manram is proud to present an entertaining afternoon of pattimanram by ‘Sivaji’ fame Pattimanram thiru. Raja (on Feb 12). The title for pattimanram is “திருமண வாழ்வில் அதிகம் விட்டுக் கொடுத்து அனுசரித்துப் போகிறவர் ஆண்களே! பெண்களே!”
The evening promises to be one to laugh, think and join the debate!
If you are interested to participate in the pattimanram here are the rules.
Participant must be a member of Tamil Manram. If you are not a member, you can become a member online.
Prepare a 5 minutes audio or video on the pattimanram topic, either favoring men or women. If you create a video send it as YouTube link. Send the audio clip/video link to JP at [email protected] and Venu [email protected].
Deadline to submit your entry is February 5, 2012.
Once selected, participant must pay $25 participation fee (which includes admission ticket)
Pattimanram
Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 2 P.M.
Quail Run Elementary School
4000 Goldenbay Avenue
San Ramon, CA 94582 [ Map ]
$10 (members); $12 (non-members)
Purchase tickets online
Dublin Library hosts an intriguing workshop on the Spiritual Practice of Chanting
On 29th January, 2012 (Sunday) attend a free workshop on the Spiritual Practice of Chanting at the Dublin Library. The workshop would cover topics like what is Chanting, what name of God should one chant, how should one chant and benefits of Chanting.
- Venue: Dublin Public Library 200 Civic Plaza Dublin, CA 94568
- Language: English
- Date: Sunday, 29 January 2012
- Time: 2.00 PM – 3.30 PM
- Total seats available: 30
This event is being organized by the Spiritual Science Research Foundation (SSRF). SSRF’s aim is to “educate society on the spiritual dimension and how it affects our lives. We conduct research and convey knowledge about the spiritual dimension to help people understand it, advise those who are curious to experience it for themselves, and guide those who have intense desire for spiritual growth and God-realisation towards achieving their goal.”
SSRF was founded with the blessings of His Holiness Dr. Jayant Balaji Athavale. As a Consultant Clinical Hypnotherapist, he had learned that some of his patients with whom he had very little success, had recovered after adopting spiritual remedies such as visiting sacred places, remaining in the holy company of spiritually evolved people (Saints) or performing certain religious rituals. After interacting with Spritual minded people, he concluded that there are spiritual causes behind not just illnesses of patients, but also behind all major events and most problems in life. He worked tirelessly in the field of Spirituality to share with others his research into the understanding of the spiritual dimension using a scientific approach. The believers also believe in their ability to perceive the subtle dimension or the unseen world, or in other words, sixth sense.
The organization is based out of Australia, has very active member base in Europe, and also registered in the USA.
Not sure what brought the workshop to the Dublin (California) Library, but it may be worth attending – even if just to get more exposed to the intriguing concept.
Check out this video on the concept:
Local student on Christmas and Holidays
The ‘melting pot’ that is America is at no time more evident than during the holiday-season. It reaches the crescendo at Christmas, when, whatever your ethno-religious background, you just don’t want to NOT be a part of all the revelry. What does it then mean for non-Christians, especially as you see yourself doing more for Christmas, than for your own festivals?
Shalaka Gole, a budding student of journalism from California High School in San Ramon lays it out rather nicely in an article posted on December 23, 2011 in San Ramon Patch .
An All-American Christmas, the Hindu Way:
There is nothing like the voices of Dean, Bing, Ella, Frank, and Judy to ring in the holiday season. This year, I started listening to Christmas music on Nov. 28. Our family’s old prelit tree stands decked out in the corner as early as Dec. 4th. And I was planning Christmas presents to my friends before Thanksgiving.
This is all pretty standard American stuff, but I did all this disregarding the fact that I was raised as a Hindu in an Indian house.
I wholly subscribe to the American idea of Christmas, along with my immigrant parents and little brother. We do dress up and cook for Diwali, every year. But Christmas presents are also the norm, decorating the tree is a major event and Santa came for my little brother for 10 years. We have been willingly sucked into the commercialism and culture of the season, and I’m not terribly sorry.
I used to feel guilty about liking Christmas and felt like I was trying to fit myself into an idea of Christianity that I don’t believe in. I wasn’t sure of what it meant for me to love Christmas, a holiday that wasn’t really mine to celebrate.
But I’ve started thinking of Christmas as a culturally American time, where different kinds of people can come together for many different reasons. To some it may rightfully mean the celebration of the birth of Jesus, but to others like me, it means the mood and actions of all those around me.
There is something about the feeling of the holidays that makes the cold air less biting and puts everyone in a better mood. People smile more, sing more, count their blessings, and give to others. At school, I see Jews, Christians, Hindus, and religiously confused teenagers alike talk about how much they love the atmosphere. It’s cliché, but I think the cliché stems from truth.
I think Christmas can be said to embody America, commercialism and a profit-driven mentality mixed in with charity and good feeling, shared by those of all ethnic backgrounds. It has become a holiday anyone can celebrate, and include or leave out the pieces they wish.
This year, I’ll spend Christmas weekend eating a home-cooked Jewish meal, opening presents, listening to Sinatra and sharing with my Jewish, Chinese, Indian, Filipino, and Christian friends, making it a truly American holiday.
Tamil Cultural Celebration Muthamizh Vizha in Pleasanton
Muthamizh Vizha – Celebration Of Tamil Culture – Literature, Music, Dance and Drama, especially related to ancient art forms is being held in Harvest Park Middle School Pleasanton, CA on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 2:00 PM.
The title for makkaL vivaatha arangam is குழந்தைகளை வளர்ப்பதில் முக்கியப் பங்கு வகிப்பது – தாயா? தந்தையா?
If you are interested in participating in makkaL vivaatha arangam, please contact Sridharan Minor, VP Cultural at [email protected].
- Muthamiz Vizha
- Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 2:00 PM
- Harvest Park Middle School – 4900 Valley Ave Pleasanton, CA 94566
- Free for Tamil Manram members.
Tamil Manram is committed to the growth of Tamil cultural activities in the bay area. Tamil Manram regularly conducts Children’s events and encourages our children to learn Tamil language and Tamil culture.
Dandia in Pleasanton Fairgrounds – Oct 15, 2011
SEF Dandiya will be organized on Oct 15, 2011 Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton featuring Dhol Baaje Entertainment, like last year. Tickets are $15 – and recommended to be purchased in advance as they WILL be sold out on the day (at actually any dandiya event). This is your only other chance to attend garbha this year in the Tri Valley, other than one Organized by Windemere Friends
- Free garba/dandia lessons available from 6:00-7:00pm on the event day for those who have purchased the tickets.
- Contact [email protected]
- Free Parking
- Complimentary checkin of dandia sticks while you enjoy Garba
- Free entrance for Kids age 5 and below
- Special Dancing Area for Kids for Extra Safety
Other SEF Events at Sept 24, Oct 1 and 4 in Santa Clara.
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OTHER BAY AREA DANDIYA EVENTS:
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Induz Dandiya 2011 featuring Dr. Sharvari Dixit
Saturday, Sep 24 7:30p to 11:30p
at Centerville Junior High School Fremont, Fremont, CA
Induz Dandiya 2011 featuring bay area’s most popular Garba/Dandiya DJ Dr. Sharvari Dixit and troupe. Make it an extra special Navratri celebrations for you and your family at the spacious and convenient venue in East Bay.
Tickets www.sulekha.com/induz
Child care facility, ample parking, food, dandiya sticks etc will be available.
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lap once, clap twice, clap three times…and you’re almost there!
Garba is THAT easy! This TWO HOUR workshop will teach you the basic hand and feet coordination to get YOU on the dance floor this Navratri season!
Get a head start and join us in the Garba & Raas workshop on:
– Sunday, September 18th from 1PM to 3PM in San Jose, OR
– Sunday, September 25th from 1PM to 3PM in Milpitas
Register: [email protected]
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Gujarati Cultural Association Upcoming Events – Navratri Garba/Dandia
Date: September 25 & 30
October 1,7 & 8th
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Small Steps Foundation Diwali Dandia Nite 2011 – Oct 8th
Saturday, Oct 8 7:30p
at Centerville Junior High School Fremont, Fremont, CA
SSF Dandia Nite 2011 in Fremont!
Most kids friendly dandia – Local Center will manage the kids corner with beautiful, craft, fun and brain bending activities, when they are tired from dancing. Biggest in Fremont with electrifying Bollywood music by Dimple Patel.Buy your tickets at sulekha.com or from the other store ticket outlets.
Windemere Friends – Dandiya for Education 2011
After last year’s overwhelming success, once again“Windemere Friends”- a neighborhood group of Indo American families is organizing “Dandiya for Education 2011″. 100% profits go to neighborhood schools!
- When: Oct 1, 2011 – 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
- Where: Windemere Ranch Middle School (Gym)
- 11611 East Branch Pkwy, San Ramon, CA
Tickets: $12 each, $15 at the door (if there’s any left)(Kids 5 yrs & under free)
Contact: [email protected]
The Band: “Aseem and Madhvi”. The Bay Area’s most famous group for singing Dandiya. They have been performing in the Bay Area for more than 15 years!
- Free dandiya training 7 – 7:30 PM
- Popular Indian food served by Indian Restaurant
- Dandiya will be available for purchase
So get your Indian outfits ready for the fun filled evening with family, friends and neighbors!
Come and relish a variety of Indian- food and the bay-area’s best live Dandiya-music to go with it !!
Dandia or Raas and Garba, is a traditional dance popular in Western India. In India, this celebration occurs during the fall festival of Navratri (Nav-raa-tree). Dandiya is a dance with short sticks that promotes slow calorie burning. Many folks have tried Dandiya and enjoyed it. We will have a special training session from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM for all newcomers.
Windemere Friends – We are a group of concerned citizens that want to make a difference in our community. We have started this in August 2010 with the aim of organizing activities that we like right here in San Ramon while raising funds for the schools.
The group is 100% volunteer based with no administrative costs.
Janmashtami Celebration in Livermore
Join the Tri Valley, and even wider community, in celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna (Janmashtmi) this year. The Krishna Janmashtami Celebration will be held on Sunday, August 21, 2011
Event Schedule – Sunday August 21st 2011
- 11:00 AM Lord Sri Krishna Utsava Murthi Abhishekam
- 12:00 Noon Archana, Theertha Prasadam
- 12:30 PM Geetha Parayanam
- 3:00 PM Sri Krishna Sankeerthana
- 5:00 PM Utsavam
- 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Geeta Recital
- 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Bhajans by Ushma Vahia and Group
- 9:00 PM – 11:30 PM | Bhajans by Mino Puri and Vikas Singh
- 11:30 PM – 12:00 AM | Sri Krishna Janamkal Puja – Aarti, Prasadam
- 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Children’s’ Program on Krishna Leela
Dinner will be served in the Assembly Hall from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Hindu Community and Cultural Center
1232 Arrowhead Ave, Livermore, CA 94551
Vocal & Bharathanatyam Recital
Enjoy this Sunday (July 17, 2011) afternoon listening to a free classical music performance followed by Bharathanatyam dance by local talents:
- Vocal concert by Ananya Ashok Disciple of Anuradha Sridhar, Artistic Director Trinity Center for Music
- Grand Bharathanatyam Recital by Shri Krupa Dance Company (Artistic Director: Vishal Ramani )
Location is Livermore Temple Assembly Hall at 1:30 PM.
Admission is Free.
The event is organized by Hindu Community and Cultural Center.
New Leaders Sought for local Punjabi Group
The Punjab Heritage Society, a local cultural organization for the past several years, is looking for some energetic and passionate people to take on a leadership role for the coming years. The Punjab Heritage Society has successfully put on an annual Baisakhi show in Pleasanton to showcase the talents of our local children. The current leadership team would like to bring in new people into the group, especially those with young children.
If you are interested in becoming one of the new leaders or would just like to get more information, please contact Harinder at [email protected].