The India Association of New Hampshire (IANH) organized a meeting in Nashua to express sympathy and condolences to those affected by the Tsunami disaster. Prithvi Kumar, President convened the meeting to order. This meeting was attended by area residents and representatives from Manitha Neyam Trust of Sri Lanka, Chinmaya Mission, and IDRF. The press coverage included the NH WMUR-TV, Nashua Telegraph, NH Public Radio (NHPR) and Lowell Sun.  

The attendees observed silence to pray for those who died, for those who were left behind and for the safe return of those still missing. Umang Kumar, a Nashua resident read a poem ‘Beyond the Snow Belt’ by Mary Oliver to express grief. Karthi Chandra, IANH Web Master, spoke about the disaster in Chennai, India. This was followed by a short talk by a member of Sri Lankan community, whose relatives were affected by the disaster. 

Ms. Barinder Ahluwalia, IANH Public Service Chair outlined our strategy to distribute funds to organizations in the affected areas. The contributions raised by IANH will be used to rebuild the affected areas, for long-term help with settlement and for medical help. ‘We are considering organizations that provide service in Indonesia, Sri Lanka and India. Our goal is not how much to raise but find grass roots organizations that provide service to people,’ said Barinder. There were discussions on a number of organizations in the area, their activities and commitments. The group agreed in principle to the idea of connecting NH community to the people in the affected area.

Manoj Chaurasia, IANH Director of Media Relations, informed the attendees about our upcoming Fundraiser on February 19, 2005. This is going to be a grand variety cultural entertainment program with performances by our members and professional artists from the New England area at the Merrimack High School. He requested the audience to inform their friends and family about this event and support the fund-raising activity. A substantial percentage of the funds raised will go to the Tsunami Disaster Relief fund.

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