The India Society of Worcester held a dedication ceremony for their newly opened center. in Shrewsbury, MA on June 19, 2004. Timothy Murray, Mayor of Worcester, Pramatesh Rath, Consul General of India and State Senator Karen Polito were amongst the dignitaries who attended the event.

The ceremony was a classy affair with an unmistakable Indian flavor. The event was a tribute to the hard work of the volunteers who had put in countless hours to make this center a reality. It was also a tribute to the sponsors who were generous in providing the necessary funding. The dedication committee worked hard to make everyone of the guests feel welcome.

The guests were ushered in with lilting Sitar music presented by local Sitarist, Smt Usha Verma. “Rangoli”, “Toran” and beautiful Indian artifacts made the center look like a traditional Indian home. Mr. Suresh Gupta, the EMCEE for the evening welcomed the guests by describing the meaning of the term “Athithi “- one who is welcome “A Thithi” on “any date”.

Krina Shah presented an invocatory Pushpanjali. In a deviation from the norm, both Indian and American guests were honored with flower garlands instead of bouquets. In a touching gesture, State Senator Karen Polito presented ISW with an American Flag that had previously flown over the United States Capital. Mayor Timothy Murray hoped that the Center would become the focal point for the community to bring its culture to the community at large.

Consul General Pramatesh Rath, gave a history of the people of Indian origin in America and applauded the progress the community had made over the years. “This community is two million strong with a median income of $46,000. It is the best educated community in the US. Over 5% of all doctors are of Indian origin. A third of the researchers are of Indian origin. There is a strong sense of community identity and self confidence,” said Rath. Members of the Indian Youth Group read out congratulatory messages sent from Senators Kerry, Kennedy and Congressman Jim McGovern.

Mr. Subu Kota, Chairman of the Board of Trustees gave a vote of thanks. President Pradeep Sharma, Mr. Shashikant Modi overseer of the construction project, Dr. Satya Mitra Chair of the fundraising committee and Dr. Kalyan Ghosh who spearheaded the effort during his term as President were applauded for their efforts. “I hope we can all treat this Community Center as our home and participate in its activities,” said Kota who gave the initial seed money of $100,000 to make this home a reality.

The center is available for rent. To rent the space please go to iswonline.org or call them at 508 842 9795.

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