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
Category Archives: Events
Volleyball Championship in San Ramon
Spandana Foundation is organizing “2nd Annual Spandana Volleyball Championship 2012” in San Ramon, CA 
Date: 19th May 2012 (Saturday)
Venue: Central Park, San Ramon, CA
Registration Fee: $60 until 30th April 2012; $80 after that.
Registration on Website: http://www.spandana.org/volleyball2012.html
Register to support the cause. Winners and Runners up will get team cups and individual cups. Each team should have a minimum of six players, and two extra. Teams can be mixed men and women. Awards of 100 USD for winning teams each category: Beginners, Advanced, Youth.
Contact [email protected]
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
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
Two Day Bengali Theater Festival in Pleasanton
Natya Mela 2012, a two day Bengali Theater Festival will be organized by Sanskriti in Pleasanton on Feb 4 and 5. Sanskriti is a Bay Area’s prominent Cultural and Charitable Association.
Venue: Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road,Pleasanton,CA,94566
Feb 4, 2012 – Saturday
3:15 PM “Bhul Swargo” Actopia, Bay Area
4:20 PM “Ekti GaNye Thaki” ECTA, New Jersey
5:55 PM – 6:40 PM Break
6:45 PM “Thikana” Brishchik, Seattle
Feb 5, 2012,Sunday
2:15 PM “Burkah Nama” Auditiya, Bay Area
3:00 PM “Norok Gulzar” Ankur, Sacramento
4:05 PM – 4:35 PM Break
4:40 PM “Tiktiki” Re-Act(Houston-Durgabari) Texas
Tickets are 20 – 30 USD, with a combo for two days for 40.
Check here for synopsis of the plays, and to book.
Last year, in October, Sanskriti was involved in organizing a festival to celebrate Durga Puja Other Cultural Programs and activities, including games like Carom and Table Tennis. As well they organized an event to pay tribute to Rabindra Nath Tagore on the occasion of his 150th Birth Anniversary at the same location Amador Theater, Pleasanton.
Jhankar Live Bollywood Music at the Dublin Library
Stop by at the Dublin Library on Sat, Jan 28 for a “breathtaking” bollywood music concert by Jhankar Live. Started in 2006 by a group of passionate music enthusiasts, the team excels in presenting soft, melodious songs as well as fast-paced numbers. 
JhankarLive also performs for charitable causes and supports education and artistic talent development of poor children. Members of JhankarLive, fondly called “the jhankaris”, are all full-time employees of leading Bay Area organizations. Since its very first year of performing, Jhankar Live has performed to massive applause and rave reviews. For more information about the free afternoon concert, please call (925) 828-1315 or write to [email protected].
An afternoon of Bollywood Music
Saturday, January 28
2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Dublin Library
200 Civic Plaza, Dublin
(925) 828-1315
Update: Jan 28, 2012
The group performed to a packed hall. The songs were chosen in memory of late Deva Anand and Shammi Kapoor. Entertaining!
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.
Remember ‘zindagi na milegi dobara’? Tomato battle in Alameda County Fairgrounds
Desi’s are now totally aware of the Spain’s Tomato Fight Festival La Tomatina – courtesy the movie ‘zindagi na milegi dobara’. Well, a baby, but fun version of a similar – Tomato Battle:NorCal is coming to Alameda Farigrounds (Pleasanton) on October 1st. It’s an all-day event featuring a beer garden, battle of the bands/rock show, and a GIANT FREAKING TOMATO FIGHT!!!
www.tomatobattle.com – Costs $40 – teens and up!
Here is a video from past Tomato Battles:
Pakistani Group performs in Pleasanton Fairgrounds
A musical mela will be bring forth entertainment for Pakistani youngsters on Saturday, September 24th, 2011 at the Alameda County fair ground in Pleasanton, California. There is no entry fee for the show, which is scheduled to start at 11:00 am, while the music session will begin around 2pm onwards. The show is presented by the Pakistan association of San Francisco bay area (PASF) and PakMusic.net. It features a live performance of Kamijee and the North American Tour team for the first time in the Bay area.
India Independence Day 15th August Celebrations 2011 – Fremont Festival of India
This year again, The Federation of Indian Associations is organizing the grand mela and parade on August 13-14th. The mission of these India Independence Day festivities is to promote unity in diversity and democracy and build healthy relationship between various Indian and American communities. Folks from Tri Valley area have traditionally attended this biggest Indian mela in the bay Area with enthusiasm.
Location is same as lasy years – 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA, 94536 (Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave).
The Festival of India Banquet Night would be held in San Jose Airport Garden Hotel on Sunday night.
This year’s events will feature a Free Health Fair, Dance Competition, Grand Parade, Kid’s Corner, Banquet and a grand Cultural Program.
There will be more than 100 booths consisting of Clothes, Arts & Crafts, Food Vendors serving up regional cuisines from across India.
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.
Class-3 Rafting trip on Saturdays 16th July and August 6th
Bay Area Desi Recreation group’s Rafting trip is being arranged for beginners Class-III on Saturday (July 16th and August 6th ) and Class-IV trips with max 12 seats are arranged on Sundays (August 28th and September 4th -long week-end).
Jul 16 2011 at 10:00 am – Venue : Lotus CA near Folsom., 6500 Hwy 49, Lotus, California, United States
Expert guide will accompany each raft consist of 6-8 rafters for class-III and 6 rafters for class-4 (only 2 boats allowed per day for class-4). Swimming is not required as life jacket is full proof but good to have some swimming experience for C4. Water flow will make sure you don’t have to paddle a lot so.Check the pictures from last years trip on the group page.
- Saturday July 16th and August 6th : Level-III+ -1 day trip on Scenic American River south fork Gorge section from Lotus, CA (after Folsom on Hwy 50).
- Charges – $82.00 per person including River use fee, taxes & Lunch (regular is $145.00)- BBQ Lunch included, plenty veggie options will be there.
- Reporting time: 10:00AM takes 2.5 to 3 hours from Bay Area.
- Minimum age: 8 years
- Boats will be launched at their campground after the safety talk. Lunch stop after an hour of rafting.
- Carpool, logistics, maps etc information will be provided to confirmed list.
- Rafting from 10:30AM – 3PM. Bus will bring you back to the parking lot. After that you can drive back or stay for the camping.
- Cancellations: 4 days prior to the event start time for class-III, after that only replacements.
- Optional add on: Riverside camping, Lavish dinner, Live Band in the evening, free wine tasting on the campsite for extra cost.
RSVP/Group coordinator: Sunil Ganu
Phone: 408-243-9110 / 408-461-8390-c
Spice of India Weekend at Alameda County Fair
There is a special two day Spice of India Weekend at the Alameda County Fair which is on from Wednesday, June 22, 2011 till Sunday, July 10, 2011 (at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, CA)
Spice of India Weekend – June 25-26 Saturday/Sunday – 2011
2011 Fair Prices: Adult $10, Senior $8, Child $6
All Day in Festival Square both Saturday & Sunday:
• Art & Painting
• Henna Booth
• Produce & Spices (India Plaza, Dublin-shopindiaplaza.net)
• Cultural booths Indian
• Indian Food vendors on-site in Festival Square. (dishes for sale)
Saturday -June 25
- 12:00 – 12:30 – Welcome young and old for yoga and meditation basics with Yogi Mahendra12:30 – 1:45PM – 1st Annual Best of the Bay SAMOSA Contest Fastest Rolling & Best Tasting – Sponsored by India Plaza (*PRIZES for the Fastest Rollers & Best of the Bay overall Samosa)
- 01:45 – 2:00PM – DJ – Bollywood Music
- 02:00 – 3:00PM -TRAVEL THROUGHOUT ALL OF INDIA. NO PASSPORTS NEEDED! Unity in Diversity! Come see, hear, and taste from the culture from several regions
- 03:00 – 6:00PM – Bollywood Extravaganza! Live Dance Performances
Sunday-June 26
- 12:00 – 12:30 – Welcome young and old for yoga and meditation basics with Yogi Mahendra
- 10:00 – 1:00PM – My PART by ART: A World Art competition to help Benefits to Aid Japanese Tsunami Relief (In partnership with local corporations and non-profits)
- 01:15 – 1:45PM – Cooking Demo- Come learn the regional cuisines across the country of India
- 01:45 – 2:00PM – DJ – Bollywood Hits
- 02:00 – 3:00PM – TRAVEL THROUGHOUT ALL OF INDIA. NO PASSPORTS NEEDED! Unity in Diversity! Come see, hear, and taste from the culture from several regions
- 03:00 – 6:00PM – Bollywood Extravaganza!
There are a zillion others fun activities going on at the fair – check http://www.alamedacountyfair.com/2011fair/home/index.php
FREE FAMILY YOGA WORKSHOP
TO REGISTER: http://secure.artofliving.org/event_details.aspx?event_id=100763
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| Adult and child yoga class Come spend an hour and half with your child (8+)to learn to destress, relax and rejuvenate. Learn important skills such as focus, concentration and improving memory with your child. A perfect way to start the summer and get ready for the next school year or the important events in your life. Register once for both you and your child. |
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Girls Scouts Passport To India event in Pleasanton
On May 20, 2011, in Pleasanton, kids get to experience a bit India in the form of Henna Tattoos, food, fashion, entertainment in Mohr Elementary School – thanks to the Girls Scouts event Flight International Passport to India – a Gold Award event.
Presented by Girls Scouts of Northern California, Crossroads Service Unit, the event is hosted by Nehal Tenany (Troop 31473).
Its a great event for kids of all ages! All Activities are FREE! Include food, Henna Tattoos and much more!
Date: Friday, May 20, 2011
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Come and go anytime!
Place: Mohr Elementary School
3000 Dennis Drive, Pleasanton
Multipurpose Room
Full of Fun and Learning – Experience the Indian culture, food, fashion, entertainment, religion, and more!
There will be a series of booths filled with activities great for the family! Learn how to write in Hindi! Try the various foods! Even get a Henna tattoo! Kids will be issued a “Cultural passport”. This passport will get stamped at different booths. Completed passports will get a small prize.
Donations are welcome. All donations will be contributed to a non -profit educational organization in India!
No prior registration is necessary. For any questions, please contact: [email protected]. Or call 925-600-9940 for details!
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout 14-18 may earn. Someone once described the Girl Scout Gold Award as being “what you really want to be remembered for” in Girl Scouting. For many, the leadership skills, organizational skills, and sense of community and commitment that come from “going for the Gold” set the foundation for a lifetime of active citizenship.
Spring Egg Hunt in Emerald Glen Park
With winter and rain behind, kids would want to be out in the parks. Celebrate Spring with ‘The Eggstravaganza’ that begins at 10:00am and ends at 11:30am on April 23, 2011. The Spring Eggstravaganza features a unique Free Style egg hunt where children do not compete to pick up as many eggs as possible. Two designated egg hunt areas will allow you and your children to leisurely pick up eggs and take photographs. There is a limit of 10 eggs per paid participant. Other fun features of this event will include:
- Carnival games with prizes
- Bounce Houses
- Face Painting
- Arts and Crafts
- Petting Zoo
- Bubble Station
- Parachutes games
- Refreshments
- and
- A photo opportunity with Peter Rabbit!
Emerald Glen Park – Near Tennis Courts
4201 Central Parkway
Dublin, CA 94568
Emerald Glen Park encompasses 40 acres and features a playground with water activities, bocce ball courts and a skateboard park and tennis and basketball courts that are well lit for evening enjoyment.
$6.50 Residents
$7.50 Non Residents
Phone: 925-556-4500 http://www.dublinrecguide.com/
Rough ride for Holi celebrations in Tri Valley
With the number of Indian immigrants settling in Tri Valley increasing at the rate it is, if anything, one would imagine increasing community organization and participation.
So its almost not heartening to know that Holi celebration in Tri Valley this year (2011) is not on a smooth ride. The TVIA (Tri Valley Indian Association) did an excellent job organizing Holi at the Emerald Glen park in Dublin last year (2010). The event was well organized, and was a hit. There was music, dance, games, color and a lot of bonhomie, and participation. However, from there on, first the TVIA Diwali plan last year went awry (lack of participation/interest – read tickets not sold), and then this year no Holi because of lack of volunteers to organize it.
Sure, the community needs helping hands!
In any case, there is some ray of hope. ‘Art of Living Tri-Valley Center – Pleasanton/ Dublin/ San Ramon’ was apparently up to something, and they have announced holding a potluck – ‘Festival of Colors (Holi)‘ on March 19th, 2011 at 11:30 AM, and they invite friends and family to join. The location is
Limerick Park
2833 Bethany Road
San Ramon, CA 94582
If you may want to go, please contact the center (925-336-1203, 510-593-5858, sanramon[a]us.artofliving.org) for participating in the food potluck.
Other than this, surely some groups of friends may be getting ready for celebrating Holi. The official Holi date actually is March 20 (Sunday) – so don’t be surprised to see brethren from India in colors of holi in parks during the weekend of March 19-20. If any groups are forming, please spread the word around. The more the people, the merrier and colorrier!
If you are willing to drive 25+ miles, there could be other good options:.
- Asha Stanford Holi 2011 Saturday, April 2 · 10:00am – 1:00pm Sandhill Fields Oak Rd Stanford, CA
- Holi Garba-Raas Party – March 12, 2011 8PM – Jain Temple Milpitas
- SEF UPMA Holi Mela 2011 Mar 19 2011 Time: 11:00 AM
- Holi Celebration & Mela at Sunnyvale Hindu Temple Mar 20 2011, Holi Dahan on Friday March 18th @ 07.00 PM
- Janyaa presents Holi Cupertino, CA 2011 Mar 13 2011 10:00AM
- BAYVP Holi Garba Celebration Mar 26 2011
- GCA Dhuleti Celebration Mar 19 2011 11:00AM
- Rajasthani Holi 2011 Mar 19 2011 9:00AM
For details, google the events.
Art of Living is living and thriving in Tri Valley
Recently a friend attended a three day Art of Meditation course, and another talked about it. And then another one. So looks like Art of Living San Ramon/Pleasanton center is coming of age.
There is a FREE event in the effering. Called “Meditation Marathon”, it will be held on March 5th 2011 at the Art of Living Center for Yoga and Meditation, Tri Valley location 6690 Amador Plaza Road, Suite 215 Dublin (925-5AOL-101). The event begins at 9am and ends at 4:00pm. There will have multiple sessions that will “help you explore your mind and bring you to the peace within”. This event is for beginners as well as seasoned meditators.
Schedule of Events:
SUKSHMA YOGA – ancient yoga that prepares the mind and body for meditation
BREATHING TECHNIQUES – learn techniques and tools to take home to quieten the mind and relax
GUIDED MEDITATIONS – led by world renowned Spiritual leader
VIDEO PRESENTATION – to understand the mechanics of the mind
CHANTING – Chanting meditation
Participants should bring a yoga mat, water and a blanket. There are no registration requirements, but confirm by calling the number above, or contact [email protected] for more information.
There is Art Excel Follow Up on Mar 06, 2011 at 4:00 PM, again a free event.
The next course (paid – $250) would be Saturday, March 17 – 20. In just three sessions of two hours each, participants “learn to tap the depths of our nature. After the course we can use this simple meditation practice to overcome the effects of inevitable stressful situations and make a positive impact on the quality of our lives”. The highlight of the course is the Sudarshan 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. In addition you can expect talks on wisdom, useful breathing techniques, and even some fun!
There is another course from March 26th-28th, 2011
- Friday Singing Satsang at 7 p.m. at the Tri-Valley Center
- Long Kriya Schedule at the Center: Wednesday Long Kriya 7pm-8:30pm, Saturday Long Kriya 7am-9am
- Mahasivaratri Celebrations, March 2nd, 2011 from 7pm onwards at Tri-Valley Center
The center may also organize Festival of Colors (Holi) on March 19th, 2011. Stay tuned for updates here.
Diwali Celebrations this year
How is it like celebrating Diwali in bay area this year 2010? There’s been Dandiya dances all over in October. The desi stores are decked up with Diwali mithai and puja stuff. You could be planning get-togethers with friends and family. And now there are Diwali festivals being organized all over the bay area, and you could decide to attend one of those.
There is general festivity in the air. Even the stores in the malls and elsewhere are beginning to show that holiday season is not far away. So if you would like to do any new purchases on occasion of Diwali – the Dhanteras Tradition, its not a bad time either.
The lead this year, like others, for Diwali celebration is being provided by the temples of the region.
The Bay Area Youth Vaishnav Parivar is organizing what they call ‘Diwali Celebration like back home in India‘ for five days from Nov 2 to 7 in Milpitas.
The Sunnyvale Hindu Temple is organizing Diwali Mela 2010 from Oct 29 – 31. The Livermore Hindu Temple is organizing special puja on Nov 5 and 6. The Fremont temple has the big festival going on on Nov 6. The Sikh Gurudwaras have a huge Diwali celebration and langar on Diwali as well.
Adding to the festival calendar during this time, especially for the kids, is Halloween. If adults want to indulge, there is Halloween Party + Miss India Norcal at an event organized in Milpitas.
The businesses and other associations have been active as well. Cupertino Chamber of Commerce & Asian American Business Council organized Diwali Festival on Oct 8, and IIT Foundation had their cultural competition on Oct 2 in Campbell.
The Tri Valley Indian Association is also organizing their Diwali night on Nov 13 at the Hart Middle School, Pleasanton. So if you are in Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore, Danville – this could be your local Diwali festival. (UPDATE Nov 4, 2010 – the Pleasanton event stands cancelled).
Private parties and potlucks on Diwali are common – then there are Diwali Meetups like this one if one is interested in for San Ramon Pleasanton area for Nov 6.
And finally, for the day of Diwali, plan on dressing up, lighting up your house, do rangoli, puja, eat a lot of mitthai but refrain from any fireworks.
Traditions engaged dance festival in San Francisco, Oct 1-3
Chitresh Das Dance Company & Chhandam School of Kathak invite you to the historic unprecedented festival – Traditions Engaged: An International Festival of Classical Indian Dance & Music.
Experience a weekend of dynamic dance & percussion, and dramatic storytelling by the world’s foremost masters, Gurus, and artists of the many diverse classical Indian dance forms: Kathak, Bharath Natyam, Odissi, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Gauriya Nritya.
See http://kathak.org/traditionsengaged/ for details.
India Independence Day 15th August Celebrations 2010
The Federation of Indian Associations is again organizing the grand mela and parade on August 15th 2010 (Sunday) at 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA, 94536 (Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave). The Festival of India Banquet Night would be held at San Ramon Marriott.
The booth price at the festival ranges from $550 for a non-profit to Corporate for $5,000. This big festival in the San Fransisco Bay Area, California, showcases and shares India’s rich culture and heritage through various events. Over 120 booths will feature Indian arts and crafts, Indian clothes, jewelry, food, and more. The parade is a work of art featuring 15 floats representing different states of India, the Indian-American community and businesses organizations. The grand carnival will feature Bollywood star Aftab Shivdasani and Bollywood Singer Arpita Mukerjee who will serve as Grand Marshals leading the parade. Parade assembly is at 12 noon sharp, with entertainment and shows set to commence at 2 p.m., continuing throughout the day.
- For Parade, participants will line up on Capitol Avenue and proceed along Liberty Street onto Walnut Avenue.
Parade Route - COST: $5 general entrance. The health fair and Sunday’s parade are free. The tickets can be purchased at the gate for $5. Entry tickets need to be purchased separately for Saturday, August 14th, 2010 and Sunday, August 15th, 2010. Tickets will be valid for the day purchased only and need to be exchanged to wrist bands at the “On-line” ticketing window near the mela entrance. If you bought a $4 ticket online prior to Aug 13, get an printed email confirmation.
- Festival kicks off at 10 a.m. Saturday with a free health fair that includes consultations with more than 100 doctors and nurses
- It costs about $250,000 to hold the two-day festival, the Bay Area’s largest Indo-American celebration
- Organizers had to cancel the 2008 parade because of a lack of funds
- Festival of India became an instant success when it started in 1992
- More than 50,000 visitors expected to central Fremont
- Celebrations will begin Friday, August 13 with an official flag raising ceremony at San Jose’ City Hall at 6:30 p.m
- Parking available in neighboring commercial lots. See Parking Map for the Independence Day Festival in Fremont here. Parking Map 2010 Festival of India Fremont(courtesy fiaonline.org)
There will also be a Free Health Fair (10:00 am – 01:00 pm), Dance Competition, Kids Corner, Mela on Sat, August 14, 11am – 7pm at Fremont Hall of Justice Parking Lot at corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave.
Dance Competition Entry Form Deadline is Fri, August 6, 11:30pm – Sat, August 7, 12:00am. The form can be accessed here.
2010 Grand Marshal is Aftab Shivdasani. Last year it was Mauli Dave (Singer)
Chief Guests this year are Jeevika Shah, Mrs. India 2004 and Arpita Mukerjee, Bollywood Singer
Indian Musical Extravaganza with SaReGaMaPa Finalist Mauli Dave
Time 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Festival Mela Stage
Festival of India Banquet Night
Place: San Ramon Marriott
Time: 8:00 pm
Music, DJ and Sumptuous Indian Dinner
FIA Members: Free
Tickets: $50/Person
Free Health Fair
10:00 am – 01:00 pm
Saturday, Aug 14, 2010
Free Health Fair
10:00 am – 01:00 pm
Mela (Fair)
10:00 am – 07:00 pm
Dance Competition
11:00 am – 05:00 pm
Dance Competition/Awards
05:00 pm – 06:00 pm
Sunday, Aug 15, 2010
Mela (Fair)
10:00 am – 07:00 pm
Cultural Program
11:00 am – 12:00 Noon
Parade
12:00 Noon – 2:00 pm
More details to follow…
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Global Indian Technology Professional’s Association (GITPRO) is also celebrating India’s Independence Day (and its own Anniversary) as a free event on Sunday, August 15, 2010, 5:15-7:15 pm at Washington Park Hall, 840 W Washington Ave, Sunnyvale, California.
High Lights:
1. Journey and the Role of Indian Entrepreneurs in USA/India
2. 1857 the First War of Independence
3. Hindi Patriotic Songs Cultural Program
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Sunnyvale Hindu Temple – Cultural Event on the occasion of Independence of India
By Mile Sur Mera Tumhara Group
Sunday 15th Aug, 2010 4:00PM – 6:30PM
(Free & Snacks will be served)
Also, there would be a Hasya Kavi Sammelan by famous humorous Poets from India on Saturday 14th August 2010 8:00PM (its a ticketed event)
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Celebrating Independence Day of India, Big Cinemas will be screening a number of popular Bollywood movies free for cine lovers across the US.
Movies like ‘Rang De Basanti’, ‘Lage Raho Munnabhai’, ‘3 Idiots’, ‘Chak De India’, ‘Namaste London’, ‘Rock On’, ‘Sivaji’, ‘Dasavatharam’, and ‘Indian’ have been lined up for screening in 11 theaters for the week long ‘Spirit of my Tiraga’ beginning August 7.
BIG Cinemas is also the in-cinema partner for India Day Parade Fremont.
Celebrate July 4 – but don’t keep fireworks for Diwali
Or the best is – July 4 Fireworks: Watch Them, Don’t Buy Them
Though buying and using fireworks is legal in Dublin (but not in Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon or Danville) – note that its so for celebrating the Independence Day, and not for other festivals like Diwali for Indians or Japanese hanabi taikai. So if you are harboring any ideas to buy the crackers this week for the dual purpose, drop the idea and instead enjoy the fireworks show in one of the Dublin parks, or the city organized celebrations in other cities (as noted below).
Use of “safe and sane” fireworks, which carry a state fire marshal’s seal and do not explode, fly or burn excessively hot, are legal on private property in just a dozen Bay Area communities, including Dublin where Safe and Sane Fireworks can Be Used in Single Family Neighborhoods and Designated Parks on the Fourth of July.
But fireworks purchased in those cities can be set off only in those cities.
Designated Parks in Dublin For Use of Safe and Sane Fireworks
1. The Alamo Creek Park (Dougherty Road & Willow Creek Drive)
2. Dublin Sports Grounds (Dublin Blvd. & Civic Plaza)
3. Emerald Glen Park (Tassajara & Gleason Drive)
The City of Dublin has designated the 3 Parks where the use of Safe and Sane Fireworks will be permitted between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on the 4th of July Only!!!
NO FIREWORKS OF ANY TYPE, including “Safe and Sane”, will be permitted at many City Facilities, Parks or Public Schools. See list here:
http://www.ci.dublin.ca.us/pdf/Designated%20Parks%20in%20Dublin.pdf
The City of Dublin does not allow the use of any fireworks in multi-family housing areas or any other City facilities, schools, and non-designated parks. Please do NOT hesitate to report any non-permitted use of fireworks to Dublin Police Services at (925) 462-1212.
Fireworks are sold by non-profit groups located in the City of The application process for a fireworks booth begins in April of each year.
Many of the non-profit organizations in Dublin, CA, support their community service efforts by selling fireworks every year. This year, the sale of “safe and sane” fireworks starts on Monday, June 28. The list of participating organizations include:
Rotary Club of Dublin 7944 Dublin Boulevard (Hooters)
Wells Band 4400 Tassajara Road (Safeway at Waterford)
Dublin Partner in Education 4400 John Monego Court (GMC Buick)
Personal fireworks use, which is illegal throughout Contra Costa County which includes San Ramon and Danville. Offenders could face $500 in fines for the smaller fireworks, while possession of more potent fireworks like M-80s or cherry bombs could lead to felony charges, fines of up to $5,000 and jail time.
San Ramon’s “Red, White and Blue Picnic and Fireworks” is Sunday, July 4 in the city’s Central Park at 12501 Alcosta Blvd. Families are welcomed to enjoy a picnic in the beautiful park setting beginning at 1 p.m., with the fireworks display beginning at 9:30 p.m. For more information, call the City of San Ramon Parks and Community Services Department at 925-973-3200.
The Pleasanton Police Department and the Livermore Pleasanton Fire Department want to ensure everyone has a safe Independence Day and remind you that ALL FIREWORKS, INCLUDING SAFE AND SANE, ARE ILLEGAL IN PLEASANTON. Violations are taken very seriously and violators can expect to receive a citation and have their fireworks seized.
Its rumoured that one can always go to China Towns or Mexico to buy fireworks anytime, but a good place to learn what’s legal and illegal in each state is the American Pyrotechnics Assoc website http://www.americanpyro.com/State%20Laws%20(main)/PDFStates/california.pdf
Despite the ban of fireworks that exist in most cities in the area, including San Jose, you won’t have to go very far in your city to see somebody shooting off fireworks. “Illegal fireworks are available everywhere now,” said Gilroy Fire Marshal Jackie Bretschneider, whose city is one of the few to allow the so-called “safe and sane” fireworks. The debate on banning fireworks is starting to heat up. One Northern California city is resuming fireworks sales after reasoning there was no way to enforce a ban. But officials in most cities are sticking by theirs, insisting the bans are the only way to prevent a rash of fires and injuries.
List of 275 Communities Permitting State-Approved Fireworks
http://www.ca-fireworks.com/content/content-article.asp?ArticleID=508
Reference:
http://www.mercurynews.com/news/ci_15413967?nclick_check=1
http://sanramon.patch.com/articles/july-4-fireworks-watch-them-dont-buy-them
http://www.ci.dublin.ca.us/qa-fire.cfm?Ans=3NV113232200719125023&PL=exp&SL=FS
http://www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us/services/news/?nid=84
Relocate to India job fair
24th June, 2010: Relocate to India, Job Fair
When: 24 June 2010
6pm to 9pm
http://www.siliconindia.com/ events/june24caindex.htm
Where: Biltmore Hotel , Suite 215 Laurelwod Road Santa Clara , CA 95054
Jobs in India for returning professionals
Companies in India are looking to hire professionals with US experience / education. The SiliconIndia Job Fair 2010 will bring together recruiters, HR Managers and candidates who are looking for that right company and opportunity to return to India You can meet recruiters at their booths personally and discuss employment opportunities. It is not just software anymore; companies are also looking for specialized skills in systems, chip design, testing, senior level project management marketing, business development and much more? This is 7th year of these one of a kind job fairs where professionals returning to India can interview with hiring companies in U.S. only. From our previous events, more then half the attendees’ return back to India in 3 months with job offers. There are half the attendees’ return back to India in 3 months with job offers. There are company’s specific relocation packages to India. By industry estimates, more than 20,000 professional Indians have returned back to India in last 2 years. It’s much more convenient to get the dream job with a MNC in India while in U.S. at SiliconIndia Job fair then looking for a job after landing in India.
Basant Kites Festivals in Bay Area
Spring! It’s that time of the year when India and Indians everywhere come alive in a riot of vivacious colors to herald spring! As India is a country of diverse cultures there are many varied festivals to celebrate the arrival of spring in the different parts of the country! Basically most festivals have a religious fervor to it and are symbolic of victory of good over evil !
Holi, and then Basant Panchami.
During spring in the northern states of Haryana and Punjab, the mustard fields are in full bloom and resembles yellow carpets laid out on acres of land . Hence, yellow is the color of the festival and people wear yellow clothes and fly yellow kites on the rooftops after a religious ceremony dedicated to the Goddess of learning! People fly kites in the nights as well using searchlights!
The spring festival Uttarayan of Gujarat in north India falls at a time ,when the sun and the wind flow ,is favorable for flying kites!
In the Bay Area, there are at least two festivals being celebrated.
Basant Kite Festival, Baylands Park in Sunnyvale, Sunday, May 16, 2010
“We are gearing up for the Basant Kite Festival. This year for the very first time we will be celebrating this cultural tradition, common in India and Pakistan, by bringing the Silicon Valley Pakistani and Indian communities together. Every year at this event we fly desi kites, have a kite flying competition, music program at the center stage, dancing (bhangra and others), children games and activities, vendor booths and stalls, food booths, etc.”
Kids ‘n Kites Festival, Central Park, Fremont, Saturday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The City of Fremont Parks and Recreation Department is holding its annual Kids ‘n Kites Festival on Saturday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The festival, presented by American Swim Academy, is located within Central Park, next to Aqua Adventure Waterpark.
The festival is free to the public, and includes free kites to the first 2,500 children in attendance. There will be live entertainment on the main stage, interactive booths highlighting summer activities, play area for the kids, food, and more. The festival has something fun for everyone!
Baisakhi Mela 2010 in Concord
Baisakhi Mela 2010 or 7th Annual Diversity Spring Festival will be held on Saturday May 01 2010 at the Todos Santos Park Plaza in downtown Concord from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The mela will feature dances, and programs for children.
May 1st 2010 10:00am to 5:00pm
Free Entry & Food
Todos Santos Park Plaza
Downtown Concord
California 94520
(off of Willow Pass Rd. Corner to Grant St.)
Presented By: South Asian Behavioral Health and Training Foundation – SABH CENTER.
A Non-Profit California agency providing residential & mental health services to mentally & developmentally disabled, new immigrants & seniors
The festival is sponsored by the Therapeutic Residential Services, and the Federation of Inod-American Association of Northern California.
Baisakhi Mela 2010 or 7th Annual Diversity Spring Festival will be held on Saturday May 01 2010 at the Todos Santos Park Plaza in downtown Concord from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The mela will feature dances, and programs for children.
- May 1st 2010 10:00am to 5:00pm
- Free Entry & Food
Todos Santos Park Plaza
Downtown Concord
California 94520
(off of Willow Pass Rd. Corner to Grant St.)
Presented By: South Asian Behavioral Health and Training Foundation – SABH CENTER.
A Non-Profit California agency providing residential & mental health services to mentally & developmentally disabled, new immigrants & seniors
The festival is sponsored by the Therapeutic Residential Services, and the Federation of Inod-American Association of Northern California.
Holi celebration in Dublin, San Ramon, Pleasanton Mar 7, 2010
Holi kab hai…Kab hai holi…?!
For the second year, the Tri Valley India Association is organizing the Festival of Colors ‘Holi Dhamal’ in the Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon area. The Holi itself is on Mar 01 (Monday) as per holifestival.org and is being celebrated widely in the San Fransisco Bay Area.
- When: Mar 7th, 2010 (Sunday)
- Location: Emerald Glen Park, Dublin, CA (Use 4201 Central Parkway, Dublin CA – 94568 for GPS/Online directions)
- Time: 11:00pm – 2:00 pm
- Cost: Adults $7; Kids (4 -12 yrs):$5; Kids 4 and under: Free; Group of 10 of more -Adult $5; Group of 10 or more – Kids $4 (Apparently Cost includes colors)
No water guns allowed
Email [email protected] for tickets or more Info
Tickets Available At:
- Kamal Spices (Pleasanton) – 6700 Santa Rita Road Pleasanton, CA 94588-3467 (925) 227-1600
- New India Bazaar (Dublin) – 4552 Dublin Boulevard Dublin, CA 94568-7564 (925) 875-1692
- New India Plaza (Dublin) – 6040 Dougherty Rd (at Houston Pl) Dublin, CA 94568 (925) 829-9950
- ONLINE at https://www.sulekha.com/ticketsV3/buytickets.aspx?cid=588997
Map:
Gandhi’s Nonviolence discussion group
Gandhi’s Nonviolence — 7 p.m. third Thursdays monthly. A study and discussion group on how to transform our society into a nonviolent culture. Examples of Gandhi, King and others, applied to the present. Mt. Diablo Peace and Justice Center, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. Free.
Career Neworking Group in San Ramon
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WinCareerNetwork/
This group is primarily for people living in the San Ramon, Dublin & Pleasanton areas which include large communities like Windemere and Gale Ranch. The primary purpose is to provide a forum for people to meet other like-minded individuals face-to-face in a friendly environment and foster career-oriented professional networking..
This Group will help those who want to improve their careers as well as those who are looking for work.. Topics of discussion include, typical interview questions/answers, technical discussions, presentations, work-place issues, job sectors etc.Occasionally, we have guest speakers as well.
The members also notify the group of important career oriented topics, seminars, networking opportunities that they become aware of, from time to time.
If you are interested or if you think you can contribute something to this group, please let us know…This is a voluntary and non-profit activity and all programs are free to the participants.
India Republic Day 2010 Celebrations
India Republic Day (January 26) Celebrations will be on Sunday, January 31, 2010 at 6:00 PM at Newark Pavilion, 6430 Thornton Ave., Newark, CA 94560. There will be a cultural program, patriotic songs, followed by dinner with invited guests.
Contacts: www.fiaonline.org or 51O-938-8668.
Also announced are the 18th Festival of India and Parade Celebrations on Saturday, August 14 and Sunday, August 15, 2010 at 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont (Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave – same location as previous years).
Organized by Federation of Indo Americans of Northern California.
Desi Indian New Year Parties 2010
No, the Trivalley area still does not have the critical mass of Desis to successfully host a party on its own. Private get-togethers for sure, but not the kinds where an entrepreneur can take initiative to put some classy entertainment together, book a party place, and take the risk of selling enough tickets.
But its apparent that almost all the better known Bay Area desi spots will have one or more parties being thrown together. Works for families and groups, and partners and singles. A DJ and dance floor is apparently the minimum denominator; some of the higher end ones have a celebrity or two visiting as well.
This year can drive to Fremont, Milpitas, Sunnywale, Newark, San Jose, Concord, or even Sacramento! In the coming year or two, hopefully we will see a party right here in San Ramon, Dublin or Pleasanton.
Leave behind 2009 in style, enjoy the evening and entertain yourself!
Here is a quick list of what events are scheduled in the Bay Area to welcome the new year 2010:
Holiday Inn – San Jose
http://www.bollywoodcool.com/
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Dance Performance by Kashmera Shah and Stand-up Comedy
General Tickets – $75.00
Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara
www.tigerfest2010.info
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Performance by Upen Patel , Celebrity Fashion Show
Minimum $75.00
Diamond Palace , Fremont
www.shindalivenye.com
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Sukshinder Shinda, Micki Narula
Tickets $99
India Community Center , Milpitas
www.indiacc.org
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Stand-Up Comedy, Dance
Tickets $79
The Diamond Palace, Fremont
510-453-1521
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Andhra Dance, Telugu DJ, Tambola
General Tickets – $59.00
City Beach, Fremont
www.desinewyearparty.com
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Akhil Tatreja DJ and Remix
General Tickets – $69.00
Udupi Palace, Newark
510-794-8400
General Tickets – $25.00
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: DJ – AR Rahman Beats
Hilton Concord Hotel, Concord
925-888-4392
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Live Band, DJ, Professional Photographer
General Tickets – $65.00
Hilton Hotel, Sacramento
916-772-7555
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: Multiple Ball Rooms, DJs
General Tickets – $65.00
Sneha – Banquet Hall, Sunnyvale
New Year 2010 Program Highlight: DJ, Dance
Tickets $50
Happy New Year!