Could you tell us a little about your work at Tufts University?
I am a professor of Mechanical Engineering. My area of focus is Materials Engineering where I study the properties of materials and help understand the creation of new alloys and polymers.
What motivated you to take on the Presidency of IAGB?
My family has been very actively involved in community activities. IAGB is an association, which cuts across ethnic, linguistic and religious barriers and hence has been an organization that we have enjoyed being a part of. Growing up my children and their friends took active part in the Independence and Republic Day Celebrations. Any organization depends on volunteers to sustain. I am grateful to those who keep this organization going for many years and I felt it was my turn to give my time to the support IAGB.
Why did IAGB have to pull the Independence Day celebrations out of the Hatch Shell last year?
The tragic marathon-bombing incident had a direct impact on IAGB. The cost of the security arrangements added a large cost to the event that we were unable to bear. We were not given enough notice about the increased cost and thus had to pull out.
How is IAGB able to bring the event back to the hatch shell this year?
Thanks to the amazing support we have received from community we were able to bring it back to the hatch shell. The community heeded our appeal for funds and many have contributed. We are also indebted to our vendors and sponsors who year after year support us through their advertisements. We are so pleased that the Celtics, with one of the CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY, have decided to also be at the event and bring the championship trophy. We will be raffling tickets to Celtics games and 2-round trip tickets from New York to India on Air India, who are one of the official sponsors of the event.
Could you tell us a little about the cultural segment?
We are very excited about the cultural segment, which features over 200 performers. The theme of this year’s production is “Khushiyon Ki Rangoli – Joy of being an Indianâ€. From classical to Bollywood we have a wide range of items that are sure to entertain.
How can the community participate?
Come and join the fun! Many in the community have contributed their time to put up a good performance. Others have contributed financially. The IAGB executive committee has worked hard to make the show at hatch shell a reality. The community presence at the event would be wonderful. We will also have microphones that will travel through the crowds where the participants can share their views with the world.
For information about supporting India Day and security, visit:
YouTube Video:
Razoo Crowdfunding Site:
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