During such unprecedented times, where most of us struggle to cruise through our routines, IARI stepped in with multiple virtual initiatives. Organization offered a lineup of summer events, engaging every age group of the community. Let’s take a glance on the event highlights-

IARI Summer Program

IARI conducted its first Kids-4-Kids Virtual Summer Program,2020 where youth volunteers were trained by the youth development team to teach younger kids. The event created history on multiple fronts – A month and a half long program that involved youth participation from Georgia, California and Florida. Event involved training kids on programming languages, improvising their fine art skills with baking and painting sessions while learning about historic significance of these art forms. This brought us one step closer to realizing our dream of youth expanding the frontiers of this organization.

IARI Independence Month Celebrations

a) Among the very few New England states that celebrate India’s Independence, IARI continued its age-old tradition of India Day celebration. IARI celebrated its first virtual cultural event-74th Indian Independence Day on 15th August,2020. The event opening was marked by President’s message followed by a welcome note from the honorable Governor of RI. She thanked the community for staying at home and continuing the virtual celebration. The event showcased Kids images in ethnic wear, majestic voice of Dhruvit Patel that instilled patriotic feelings, a glimpse of past IARI performances. The event ended with a small film on India’s journey for Independence. All of the above was brought to life by the majestic backdrops and videography skills. Event had ~560 attendees on Facebook & YouTube.

b) Independence Day Celebrations concluded with youth initiated “Path to Freedom”- A 2-day series narrating India’s Journey from Charkha to Chakra. Aug 19th session started with welcome note from President followed by interactive video and presentations and ended in Independence Day virtual fireworks. Secretary marked the opening of Aug 20th session where youth showed exemplary skills narrating patriotic shlokas in Sanskrit and headed towards the game room for over an hour. This event gave kids an opportunity to learn about Indian freedom struggle in a fun way while providing a public speaking platform and team building opportunity for the youth.

While none of the above could have materialized without the efforts of our Altruist and youth and cultural team deserves a applaud, a few names need special mention-

Ghanshyam Sinh Chavda - India Day Videographer and YouTube video upload support

Swarna Sen - Projecting the India day video on Facebook besides prompt posts.

Ravi Mehela - Volunteer and event recognition videographer (in absence of in-person volunteer recognition by IARI)

Santosh Behera - Uploading and organizing videos to IARI YouTube Channel

Please stay tuned on Facebook, for upcoming events including IARI’s participation in Heritage Day celebration and IARI’s most anticipated Diwali Fest.

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