A Houston Republic of Desi Cultural Jewels
By Jawahar Malhotra
Last updated: Feb 01, 2009

STAFFORD: “And as you all are aware,” Indian Consul General Sanjiv Arora was saying at the podium, “on this auspicious day, there is a colorful parade in New Delhi, representing all the different ethnic groups and people across India.”

He could very well have been referring to the colorful assortment of people who were honored at the Indian Republic Day celebrations with awards as Cultural Jewels of India. They represented the secular and diverse cross section of India and their achievements to the community in the Houston Metroplex are as varied and wide as the society they function in.

The event was held at the New Stafford Civic on Cash Road and on a cold, overcast day, many hundred people braved the weather to attend the ceremonies, cultural show by local groups and booths of local businesses and restaurants. The event was organized by the India Culture Center, in association with the Consulate General of India and many of the other Indo-American organizations in the Greater Houston Area.

The ICC also used the occasion to make a changing of the guard in its President and Board for 2009. Plaques were awarded to the outgoing Board and its President Bangar Reddy as well as the ICC Trustees. The new Board was sworn in by newly elected District Court Judge Ravi Sandill, dressed in his black judicial gown. In his farewell speech, Reddy spoke of two important accomplishments: the establishment of a Youth Leadership Development Program which has 24 students in it and a Rainy Day Fund to help desis who have run into financial trouble

. The incoming President Keshu Patel renewed his commitment to these new programs and the other events that ICC usually puts together throughout the year. The ICC will also shift their office to the new India House building. The event chair, ICC Board Director Atul Vir lauded the cultural jewels awards as the efforts of these people helps “us through these (tough) times, through music, dance, cinema, food, art, and literature, providing relief from stress as well as sustenance for the soul.”

“Reddy has truly done an excellent job with his remarkable devotion and dedication to the community.” said Trustee Dinesh Shah. “He laid down high standards by stressing the importance of unity and harmony when working with others.” The event went on through the evening with dances by various groups, including several young kids, notably the Sikh children who danced to “Singh is Kingg” and had performed at the Punjabi Culture Club event the night before.