. NetSAP-Boston organized Chai Chat on 11th March at Expresso Royale in Brookline on March 12th 2007.. The event which received more than anticipated response was attended by over 35 professionals. Chai Chat is a unique concept where people get together on a sunday afternoon for "Chai" (Tea in India) and have informal discussions on topics that are affecting or playing a critical role in the lives of South Asians, predominantly Indians. The event which was started by NetSAP-Boston in 2004 was revived again this year due to popular demand. It provided a forum (first of its sort in the Boston area) where NetSAP members and non-members can network as well as have intellectually stimulating conversation by talking about their experiences and views in a non-intimidated setting.

The topic of this first Chai Chat was "Arranged Marriages v/s Love Marriages - Building relationships in the Cyber Age". Participants discussed the pros and cons of arranged and love marriages, dating in the south asian community, social stigmas and the role of society (the culture and environment we grow up in) in relationships. It was also interesting to note that many professionals today give more importance to values, interests and compatibility rather than culture, race or religion. Thoughts and opinions on the role of career and professional pursuits viz. intense stress to do well and grow in one's career, pressure to achieve professional goals, and lack of time to get involved in a relationship or its effects on existing relationships were exchanged among the attendees. Although online marriage and dating websites have provided busy professionals with the tools necessary to explore relationships at their convenience and have combined the benefits of dating (i.e getting to know the person) within traditional (cultural) bounds, they do come with their own disadvantages. Issues such as these and more were explored at the Chai Chat.

"The Chai Chat was a forum which allowed people to voice their opinions openly. It was interesting to hear the varying opinions regarding dating and marriage and all the issues that come with them as South Asians" said Renee Sinha, Marketing chair, NetSAP-Boston. Manoshi Vin, Socio-Cultural chair at NetSAP Boston who organized this event added.."It was so good to see such a good turn out for our first chai chat. It was good coffee , great company and a insightful discussion about an issue that affects us all!"

Overall, many views from different generations as well as different experiences were shared. NetSAP-Boston plans to organize Chai Chat every other month complementing it with Dinner Circle events in the months inbetween rums.

About NetSAP-Boston:
Founded in 1995, the Network of South Asian Professionals of Boston (NetSAP-Boston) is a professional, 501c(6) not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving the professional, political, cultural and civic needs of the South Asian community in the Greater Boston area. We seek to unite South Asian professionals, nurture leadership, and build partnerships in the New England area through professional programs, networking events, and community service efforts. NetSAP-Boston is part of NetIP-NA, The Network of Indian Professionals, North America. For more information on events, membership and other initiatives, visit www.netsapboston.org. To learn more about NetIP North America and other chapters in other cities, visit www.netip.org

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