SanGaMa- the tri-valley Kerala group is planning to celebrate Christmas-New Year celebration on Saturday, Dec 7th. Please send a note if you are interested to join.
http://www.sangama.us/
Vijay
[email protected]
Category Archives: Entertainment
SanGaMa- theTrivalley Malayali (Kerala) group!
Due to our growth over the years, we have folks from all over tri-valley and hence we recently renamed our group to “SanGaMa” to mean gathering of Malayali community in the trivalley area. Check out our new website at http://www.sangama.us/ . If you have roots in Kerala and are living in Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Danville or planning to move here, you will find the group helpful.
We recently celebrated Onam with much fanfare and are getting started with planning our Christmas get-together. Check out the site for more details or join our facebook page. Check out the videos and pics at the website!
What is SanGaMa ?
Started in late 2009, this a friendly group started for the benefit of Malayalis living in San Francisco East Bay locations like San Ramon, Dublin, Danville and Pleasanton … We celebrate festivals of Kerala like Onam,Vishu, Christmas/New Year etc…This also functions as a forum for networking with other Malayali (Kerala) families in the area. We have periodic get-togethers for our main events or we go for short-trips in the bay area or we just hang out with one another occasionally! If you know of other families with roots in Kerala in the neighborhood who might be interested, please spread the word.
People living in San Ramon, Dublin, Danville & Pleasanton areas would find this group useful. It includes major communities like Windemere and Gale Ranch in San Ramon.
We are a friendly group..so feel free to join !
Thanks,
Vijay
http://www.sangama.us/
Contact us at : [email protected]
SEF Dandia 2013 – Pleasanton
This year’s SEF Dandiya will be held at Pleasanton Middle School, 5001 Case Ave, Pleasanton, CA 94566 on Saturday, OCT 19 2013 7:30PM
Tickets can be bought at New India Bazaar, Dublin and Kamal Spices, Pleasanton
Early bird (till Sept 30) $15, Regular $17, at door $20.
EMAIL TO REGISTER FOR FREE DANDIA LESSONS – [email protected]
GROUP DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR 50 OR MORE TICKETS – Contact [email protected] for more info.
Free Dandiya Sticks may be available for the event.
Dandiya Night at Alisal Elementary, Pleasanton – 27th Sep
An evening of Dandiya in support of a local school. All proceeds will go to Alisal Elementary, Pleasanton
Location: Multi Purpose Room, Alisal Elementary, 1454 Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton
Date: Friday 27th Sep 2013
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Fee: $10 (5 yrs and under are free)
Free Dance tutorial session from 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
For tickets, contact – Giri Lankipalle (201-606-3949)
Kirtan Night
You are invited to the blissfull and powerful Satsang/Kirtan at our Art Of Living – Dublin center. The event is featured artist Tim presenting his latest album “Maha Shakti Punah Punah”.
Do come with your family and friends and soak in the bliss of ancient chantings in modern rhytms.
Register at: https://secure.artofliving.org/event_reg.aspx?event_id=106447&country_id=1
Date: 09/20/2013
Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Venue: Art of Living Center for Meditation and Yoga, 6690 Amador Plaza Road, #215, Dublin, CA 94568
Dharma and Yoga Fest in Pleasanton
Listen to Anuradha Paudwal and others over Kirtan, enjoy classical dance and music, indulge in Yoga, and for kids, they can enjoy the Balgopal Theme Park, or watch Krishna Leela, a performance by no less than 250 kids of Balgokulam. Top this with free food, free entrance, and free parking. All this at Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA on September 14, 2013 from 11 AM till 9 PM.
This well publicized pan-Bay Area event is being organized under the aegis of different organizations. The main organizers of the event is Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) with the support from local organizations. If you are in the tri valley area, you may see posters saying Sri Dutta Sai Mandir, San Ramon, and at other places its the Fremont or Sunnywale Hindu temple. The event has different sponsors for the consumption of different geographies in the Bay Area.
Ultimately, it is to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, with a tag line of Universal Peace Through Dharma and Yoga.
There is also a performance by Jay Uttal, a ‘Spiritual Music Composer and Singer’ and Karnamrita Dasi and the group Kirtaniyas. The dignitaries expected to attend are Dr. Ved Nanda, Paramacharya Palaniswami, Sannyasin Senthilnathaswami, Sister Denise Lawrence and Swami Prasannatmananda. What stands out is that many of them have made a name from themselves, though they are not from India.
Supporting local Organization are Sri Datta Sai Mandir – San Ramon, Shea homes, Geeta Society, Art of Living, and the support is rounded off by Mata Amritanandmayi Center and Shiva-Vishnu Temple, Livermore. There are many more organizations and individuals that have a role in the program, including sessions by Brahma Kumaris, and others.
The organizers have taken care to cover every aspect of the culture – from Dandiya, Tabla, Bhangra, Folk Dances, Mrudungam, Bharatnayam, Kathak, Geeta Recital to Patriotic songs.
If it is what it promises to be, its worth a visit this coming Saturday!
Teeyan – Gidha, Bhangra, Skits and DJ in Livermore
Gidha, Bhangra, Skits and DJ on August 11, 2013 from 10 AM to 5:00 PM at Robert Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Avenue, Livermore, CA.
Presented by Indian American Cultural Society, Livermore. Tickets $5, and $7 at the door. Hosted by Asha Sharma and catering by Chaat Bhavan. Tickets available at Indian stores or call 925-321-8712 or 408-425-6816.
Aram Sei – FREE Community Outreach Program in Fremont-August 3, 2013
Dear Friends
This summer, Aram Sei (www.aramsei.org) is organizing a community outreach program (COP) at the Fremont Library, Fremont, CA on Saturday, 3 August 2013. This program is for children between 3 to 12 years. We have lined up plenty of entertaining and useful activities for children.
The program includes:
- Math & Science Quiz by K2SAT
- Story reading by Karadi Tales
- Dance Performance & Workshop by Priya Krishnamoorthy
- Jewelry Workshop by Subhiksha, Madhumita & Keshav
- Exciting prizes to be won – courtesy TndrBOX
You can register online and registration is free! To register, click here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Bs8ps6qD78bpGOidXocy89ySO_KhJvuvI9NcSydWXXE/viewform
Please share the poster and bring your friends and family! See you there
Regards and best wishes
Sangeetha Lakshminarayanan
Founder & Volunteer
Aram Sei
ps: I am talking to someone in San Ramon to do a similar workshop for kids in the Tri Valley. Till then, kids from Trivalley can come to the event in Fremont.
Yeh Hai Amitabh – A musical tribute
After successful shows like Surmai Shaam, Comedy Hungama, Sajda & Forever Pancham, Audigy Systems Inc in association with Radio Zindagi 1550 AM now presents Yeh Hai Amitabh– A musical tribute to the superstar of the millennium.
Join us in reviving the golden melodies with a live band of talented musicians & singers who will rekindle fond memories of evergreen Amitabh Bachchan hits. Experience the entertainment with live music, dialogs, mimicry, comedy and dances at discounted price for just $15.
Date: 29th June 2012, at 7:00 PM
Venue: Carrington Hall
1201 Brewster Ave, Redwood City, California 94062
More details: https://www.facebook.com/events/486784388054865/
Early bird tickets available at: https://mycity.sulekha.com/yeh-hai-amitabh_buy_613739 (without service charge)
Or For tickets/sponsorship or more information call Sudhir @ (408) 802 5128
Your support and presence is very much appreciated. Hope to see you there! Please feel free to forward this info. to anyone who you think may be interested and would like to come.
Sajda – An offering of unforgettable and timeless classics of Jagjit Singh
After successful and sold out musical shows like Surmai Shaam and Forever Pancham last year, Audigy Systems Inc now presents –
Sajda – An offering of unforgettable and timeless classics of Jagjit Singh.
Join us to be a part of the magical evening and enjoy Jagjit Singh’s evergreen ghazals along with a live band of musicians and remember the maestro through his work and his interpretation of music.
Date: 15th March 2013 (Friday) 8:00 PM
Venue: Schultz Cultural Arts Hall
3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto, CA 94303
More details: https://www.facebook.com/events/202962379841962/
Tickets available at: https://mycity.sulekha.com/sajda-an-offering-of-unforgettable-and-timeless-classics-of-jagjit-singh_buy_613256
(without service charge)
Or
For tickets/sponsorship or more information call
Sudhir @ (408)802-5128
Annie @ (650)697-4445
Please spread the word by sharing the event with friends and family.
Please plan on buying the tickets early as we were sold out last time.
Hoping to see you all at the event.
Stress Free, Violence Free Society Meeting
Come and join us for an informational session on: “How to build a stress free and violence free society.”
Background: This campaign focuses on creating a stress and violence free society by:
- Strengthening family values
- Empowering youth
- Fostering a feeling of community
- Building a happier and safer society
Venue: Pleasanton Library
400 Old Bernal Ave, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Date: February 6, 2013
Time: 7-8 PM
RSVP: http://tiny.cc/ii01rw
Contact: Sridhar (510) 334-7908
Hindi movie Race 2 at Regal Hacienda Crossings in Dublin
Bollywood movie Race 2 is playing at the Regal Hacienda Crossings in Dublin starting this Friday 01/25. Its an anticipated sequel to 2008 suspense thriller Race featuring mainstream actors and is first major release of the year.
Looks like Regal at the Hacienda Crossings may be trying to see what kind of a response does a Hindi movie elicit in Tri Valley area. This may be an extension of the trend from other Bay Area theatres like Century in Union City and Fremont, AMC Mercado in Santa Clara, UA in Emeryville where the mainstream theaters find good business in showing Bollywood releases. This is apart of Big Cinemas in Fremont that exclusively shows films from different languages in India.
With increasing Indian origin population in the Tri Valley area, perhaps its a good chance for folks to flock there, and demonstrate that indeed there is a market. If this trend continues then, it will be one less drive to Fremont or Union city.
Temptation 2013 – Biggest New Year Eve Bollywood Party in Tri Valley!!!!!!!
For the first time in San Ramon, from the organizers who have been throwing wildly successful parties in the bay area for last 10 years, comes the biggest Bollywood New Years Party – Temptation 2013.
Reserved indoor seating is available to our VIP and VVIP guests. Free drinks throughout the night for VVIP tables. For more information, see www.temptation2013.com.
To buy tickets, call Pooja – 510.585.8983, Meeta – 510.673.7145, or Meghna – 510.334.7683.
Alameda County Fairgrounds hosts Diwali Celebration Sat, Oct 27
Diwali Celebration – Federation of Indian Associations and Fremont Hindu Temple are organizing a grand celebration that promises fun for the entire family with cultural program, kids corner, entertainment, parade booths, real animals, gourmet food and fireworks.
Saturday, October 27
Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
(510) 659-0655
Windemere Friends – Dandiya for Education 2012
After last TWO years of overwhelming support and success, once again “Windemere Friends”, a neighborhood group of Indo American families is organizing “Dandiya for Education 2012″. 100% of it’s proceeds are donated to SRVUSD schools. (2011 Event – Last Year’s donations to schools: $8,800)
***As of Sept 30, this event is already SOLD OUT!***
When: Saturday, Oct 20, 2012 – 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Where: Dougherty Valley High School Gymnasium (New Venue)
10550, Albion Road, San Ramon, CA
So get your Indian outfits ready for the fun filled evening with family, friends and neighbors! Come and relish a variety of Indian- food served by a popular Indian restaurant. And the bay-area’s best LIVE Dandiya-music to go with it !!
Please click on the following link to buy the tickets for this event and for sponsorship opportunities to help out your community and schools….. did we mention marketing exposure to a 1000+ crowd?
http://sites.google.com/site/NewWindemereFriends
Dandia or Raas / Garba, is a traditional dance popular in Western India. This celebration occurs during the fallfestival of Navratri (Nav-raa-tree). Dandiya is a dance with short sticks and an ever-changing partner, that promotes great calorie burn! Many folks have tried Dandiya and really enjoyed it. We will have a special training session from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM for all our newcomers.
-Windemere Friends
Dandiya in Pleasanton 2012
Much like previous years, this year again you can do your share of Dandiya in Pleasanton on Saturday, OCT 20 2012, starting at 7:00PM.
Location – Pleasanton Middle School, 5001 Case Ave, Pleasanton, CA 94566.
Admission is $15.00. Free for kids under 5, and a separate area for kids. Free parking.
For tickets, www.giftofvision.org – this event usually sells out; so it serves better to buy in advance.
Wanna be Indian extras for a bollywood/tollywood film shoot – livermore?
Hi friends, on Oct 5,6,7 (fri/sat/sun) , we are looking for Indian “extras” in our bollywood/tollywood movie for a puja scene shoot in a livermore picturesque house.
If you are interested to come on any one or all days with (without) your families, email to [email protected] for more details. .
Food and film credit will be provided. No pay. Any age more than 10 yrs old will work. It will be a fun event.
Jazz and Violin – Global Conversation in Pleasanton
Violinist Kala Ramnath, along with the Bay area Saxophonist George Brooks, are performing under their band Global Conversation -some raga influenced jazz and some jazz inflected raga! The show is presented by Sankara Nethralaya Om Trust at Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd, Pleasanton, 925-339-8090 on Sunday, Sep 30 2012 7:00PM Tickets are $25, $35, $50.
Kala Ramnath belongs to a violin dynasty from India- Mewati gharana – a unique musical lineage of seven generations which straddles both the classical systems of the subcontinent. Her violin playing is characterized by an immaculate bowing and fingering technique, command over laya, richness and clarity in sur. She has revolutionized the technique of playing the violin by taking this instrument so close to vocal music that today her violin is called The Singing Violin. Kala also has been involved in the background score of the Hollywood film Blood Diamond working with composers like James Newton Howard and George Acogny.
Currently she has a series of concerts ongoing with North-South duet compositions with Lalgudi Vijayalakshmi.
George Brooks is a prolific and diverse saxophonist and composer, acclaimed for successfully bridging the worlds of jazz and Indian classical music. He is the founder of several important Indian fusion groups including Summit with Fareed Haque, Kai Eckhardt, Zakir Hussain and Steve Smith, Bombay Jazz with Larry Coryell and Ronu Majumdar and the Kirwani Quartet with Dutch harpist Gwyneth Wentink and Indian flute maestro Hariprasad Chaurasia. Brooks has taught on the faculties of Mills College in Oakland, The Jazz School in Berkeley and UC Santa Cruz. He lives in northern California.
Spice up at the Alameda County Fair
Mark June 23 and 24 to be at the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton – the two days celebrate the Spice of India Festival with a lot of food and culture.
There is live cooking demo and food, cultural booths, Best of the Bay Samosa Contest, and what not. See details below, and in the flyer.
The Alameda County Fair is celebrating turning 100. This year’s Centennial celebration includes the return of the downtown Pleasanton Parade, a brand new concert format, and a variety of distinctive memorabilia chronicling its 100 year history.
SATURDAY, JUNE 23
Noon – 2nd Best of Bay Samosa
Rolling & Cooking Contest
1:15 pm Yoga & Meditation
1:30 pm Travel to India, No Passport Needed
3:00 pm Bollywood Fitness
3:30 pm Contemporary Dance & Music
4:30 pm Live Bollywood Music & Karaoke
5:30 pm Recognition & Vote of Thanks
SUNDAY, JUNE 24
Noon – Cooking Demo by
Famous Bay Area Chefs
1:15 pm Yoga & Meditation
1:30 pm Travel to India, No Passport Needed
3:00 pm Contemporary Dance & Music
4:30 pm Live Bollywood Music & Karaoke
5:30 pm Recognition & Vote of Thanks
Bollywood – Henna – Great Indian Live Cooking demo & food – Cultural booths – Traditional dance across various Indian states – Live Music * Yoga
Best Of the Bay SAMOSA Contest
SATURDAY, JUNE 23RD • 12 p.m.
More information: [email protected] • Krishna Kumar, 510-213-1223, [email protected]
Giddha Competition in Castro Valley
Tor Punjaban Di IV, North America’s Premier Giddha Competition…The show will be held on June 9, 2012 in Castro Valley, California with 2 competition categories: live and music.
WHERE:Center for the Arts, 20575 Santa Maria Avenue, Castro Valley, CA 94546
WHEN:Saturday, JUN 09 2012
1:00PM
HOSTED BY:Tor Punjaban Di
Volleyball Championship in San Ramon
Spandana Foundation is organizing “2nd Annual Spandana Volleyball Championship 2012” in San Ramon, CA 
Date: 19th May 2012 (Saturday)
Venue: Central Park, San Ramon, CA
Registration Fee: $60 until 30th April 2012; $80 after that.
Registration on Website: http://www.spandana.org/volleyball2012.html
Register to support the cause. Winners and Runners up will get team cups and individual cups. Each team should have a minimum of six players, and two extra. Teams can be mixed men and women. Awards of 100 USD for winning teams each category: Beginners, Advanced, Youth.
Contact [email protected]
Tamil Chithirai Thiruvizha in Pleasanton Apr 14
Tamil activities continue to take center stage with Tamil Manram bringing a FREE fun filled afternoon of events at Hart Middle School, Pleasanton for traditional Chithirai Thiruvizha.
Chithirai Thiruvizha (Festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Chitirai) is an annual celebration during the month of April, with roots in Madurai. It is one of the longest celebrations of the world and lasts for one month. The first 15 days of the festival is celebrated for Meenakshi, and the next 15 days are celebrated for Alagar.
Chithirai Thiruvizha 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 2 PM
Hart Middle School
4433 Willow Road
Pleasanton, CA 94588
- புலி வேஷம், மயிலாட்டம், ஒயிலாட்டம், பொய்க்கால் குதிரை, முளப்பாரி வைத்தல், பூக்கோலம், காட்சிப் படங்கள், காணொளிகளுடன் கூடிய கண்காட்சி, பொருட்காட்சி
- பம்பரம், பல்லாங்குழி, பரமபதம், பாண்டியாட்டம் போன்ற விளையாட்டுக்களின் செயல்முறை விளக்கங்கள்
- கனிவான நிகழ்ச்சிகள், போட்டிகள் மற்றும் பரிசுகள்
Tamil Pattimanram Entertainment Festival in San Ramon
Tamil Manram is proud to present an entertaining afternoon of pattimanram by ‘Sivaji’ fame Pattimanram thiru. Raja (on Feb 12). The title for pattimanram is “திருமண வாழ்வில் அதிகம் விட்டுக் கொடுத்து அனுசரித்துப் போகிறவர் ஆண்களே! பெண்களே!”
The evening promises to be one to laugh, think and join the debate!
If you are interested to participate in the pattimanram here are the rules.
Participant must be a member of Tamil Manram. If you are not a member, you can become a member online.
Prepare a 5 minutes audio or video on the pattimanram topic, either favoring men or women. If you create a video send it as YouTube link. Send the audio clip/video link to JP at [email protected] and Venu [email protected].
Deadline to submit your entry is February 5, 2012.
Once selected, participant must pay $25 participation fee (which includes admission ticket)
Pattimanram
Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 2 P.M.
Quail Run Elementary School
4000 Goldenbay Avenue
San Ramon, CA 94582 [ Map ]
$10 (members); $12 (non-members)
Purchase tickets online
Two Day Bengali Theater Festival in Pleasanton
Natya Mela 2012, a two day Bengali Theater Festival will be organized by Sanskriti in Pleasanton on Feb 4 and 5. Sanskriti is a Bay Area’s prominent Cultural and Charitable Association.
Venue: Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road,Pleasanton,CA,94566
Feb 4, 2012 – Saturday
3:15 PM “Bhul Swargo” Actopia, Bay Area
4:20 PM “Ekti GaNye Thaki” ECTA, New Jersey
5:55 PM – 6:40 PM Break
6:45 PM “Thikana” Brishchik, Seattle
Feb 5, 2012,Sunday
2:15 PM “Burkah Nama” Auditiya, Bay Area
3:00 PM “Norok Gulzar” Ankur, Sacramento
4:05 PM – 4:35 PM Break
4:40 PM “Tiktiki” Re-Act(Houston-Durgabari) Texas
Tickets are 20 – 30 USD, with a combo for two days for 40.
Check here for synopsis of the plays, and to book.
Last year, in October, Sanskriti was involved in organizing a festival to celebrate Durga Puja Other Cultural Programs and activities, including games like Carom and Table Tennis. As well they organized an event to pay tribute to Rabindra Nath Tagore on the occasion of his 150th Birth Anniversary at the same location Amador Theater, Pleasanton.
Jhankar Live Bollywood Music at the Dublin Library
Stop by at the Dublin Library on Sat, Jan 28 for a “breathtaking” bollywood music concert by Jhankar Live. Started in 2006 by a group of passionate music enthusiasts, the team excels in presenting soft, melodious songs as well as fast-paced numbers. 
JhankarLive also performs for charitable causes and supports education and artistic talent development of poor children. Members of JhankarLive, fondly called “the jhankaris”, are all full-time employees of leading Bay Area organizations. Since its very first year of performing, Jhankar Live has performed to massive applause and rave reviews. For more information about the free afternoon concert, please call (925) 828-1315 or write to [email protected].
An afternoon of Bollywood Music
Saturday, January 28
2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Dublin Library
200 Civic Plaza, Dublin
(925) 828-1315
Update: Jan 28, 2012
The group performed to a packed hall. The songs were chosen in memory of late Deva Anand and Shammi Kapoor. Entertaining!
Tamil Cultural Celebration Muthamizh Vizha in Pleasanton
Muthamizh Vizha – Celebration Of Tamil Culture – Literature, Music, Dance and Drama, especially related to ancient art forms is being held in Harvest Park Middle School Pleasanton, CA on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 2:00 PM.
The title for makkaL vivaatha arangam is குழந்தைகளை வளர்ப்பதில் முக்கியப் பங்கு வகிப்பது – தாயா? தந்தையா?
If you are interested in participating in makkaL vivaatha arangam, please contact Sridharan Minor, VP Cultural at [email protected].
- Muthamiz Vizha
- Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 2:00 PM
- Harvest Park Middle School – 4900 Valley Ave Pleasanton, CA 94566
- Free for Tamil Manram members.
Tamil Manram is committed to the growth of Tamil cultural activities in the bay area. Tamil Manram regularly conducts Children’s events and encourages our children to learn Tamil language and Tamil culture.
Remember ‘zindagi na milegi dobara’? Tomato battle in Alameda County Fairgrounds
Desi’s are now totally aware of the Spain’s Tomato Fight Festival La Tomatina – courtesy the movie ‘zindagi na milegi dobara’. Well, a baby, but fun version of a similar – Tomato Battle:NorCal is coming to Alameda Farigrounds (Pleasanton) on October 1st. It’s an all-day event featuring a beer garden, battle of the bands/rock show, and a GIANT FREAKING TOMATO FIGHT!!!
www.tomatobattle.com – Costs $40 – teens and up!
Here is a video from past Tomato Battles:
Pakistani Group performs in Pleasanton Fairgrounds
A musical mela will be bring forth entertainment for Pakistani youngsters on Saturday, September 24th, 2011 at the Alameda County fair ground in Pleasanton, California. There is no entry fee for the show, which is scheduled to start at 11:00 am, while the music session will begin around 2pm onwards. The show is presented by the Pakistan association of San Francisco bay area (PASF) and PakMusic.net. It features a live performance of Kamijee and the North American Tour team for the first time in the Bay area.
India Independence Day 15th August Celebrations 2011 – Fremont Festival of India
This year again, The Federation of Indian Associations is organizing the grand mela and parade on August 13-14th. The mission of these India Independence Day festivities is to promote unity in diversity and democracy and build healthy relationship between various Indian and American communities. Folks from Tri Valley area have traditionally attended this biggest Indian mela in the bay Area with enthusiasm.
Location is same as lasy years – 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA, 94536 (Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave).
The Festival of India Banquet Night would be held in San Jose Airport Garden Hotel on Sunday night.
This year’s events will feature a Free Health Fair, Dance Competition, Grand Parade, Kid’s Corner, Banquet and a grand Cultural Program.
There will be more than 100 booths consisting of Clothes, Arts & Crafts, Food Vendors serving up regional cuisines from across India.
Vocal & Bharathanatyam Recital
Enjoy this Sunday (July 17, 2011) afternoon listening to a free classical music performance followed by Bharathanatyam dance by local talents:
- Vocal concert by Ananya Ashok Disciple of Anuradha Sridhar, Artistic Director Trinity Center for Music
- Grand Bharathanatyam Recital by Shri Krupa Dance Company (Artistic Director: Vishal Ramani )
Location is Livermore Temple Assembly Hall at 1:30 PM.
Admission is Free.
The event is organized by Hindu Community and Cultural Center.
Class-3 Rafting trip on Saturdays 16th July and August 6th
Bay Area Desi Recreation group’s Rafting trip is being arranged for beginners Class-III on Saturday (July 16th and August 6th ) and Class-IV trips with max 12 seats are arranged on Sundays (August 28th and September 4th -long week-end).
Jul 16 2011 at 10:00 am – Venue : Lotus CA near Folsom., 6500 Hwy 49, Lotus, California, United States
Expert guide will accompany each raft consist of 6-8 rafters for class-III and 6 rafters for class-4 (only 2 boats allowed per day for class-4). Swimming is not required as life jacket is full proof but good to have some swimming experience for C4. Water flow will make sure you don’t have to paddle a lot so.Check the pictures from last years trip on the group page.
- Saturday July 16th and August 6th : Level-III+ -1 day trip on Scenic American River south fork Gorge section from Lotus, CA (after Folsom on Hwy 50).
- Charges – $82.00 per person including River use fee, taxes & Lunch (regular is $145.00)- BBQ Lunch included, plenty veggie options will be there.
- Reporting time: 10:00AM takes 2.5 to 3 hours from Bay Area.
- Minimum age: 8 years
- Boats will be launched at their campground after the safety talk. Lunch stop after an hour of rafting.
- Carpool, logistics, maps etc information will be provided to confirmed list.
- Rafting from 10:30AM – 3PM. Bus will bring you back to the parking lot. After that you can drive back or stay for the camping.
- Cancellations: 4 days prior to the event start time for class-III, after that only replacements.
- Optional add on: Riverside camping, Lavish dinner, Live Band in the evening, free wine tasting on the campsite for extra cost.
RSVP/Group coordinator: Sunil Ganu
Phone: 408-243-9110 / 408-461-8390-c
Spice of India Weekend at Alameda County Fair
There is a special two day Spice of India Weekend at the Alameda County Fair which is on from Wednesday, June 22, 2011 till Sunday, July 10, 2011 (at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, CA)
Spice of India Weekend – June 25-26 Saturday/Sunday – 2011
2011 Fair Prices: Adult $10, Senior $8, Child $6
All Day in Festival Square both Saturday & Sunday:
• Art & Painting
• Henna Booth
• Produce & Spices (India Plaza, Dublin-shopindiaplaza.net)
• Cultural booths Indian
• Indian Food vendors on-site in Festival Square. (dishes for sale)
Saturday -June 25
- 12:00 – 12:30 – Welcome young and old for yoga and meditation basics with Yogi Mahendra12:30 – 1:45PM – 1st Annual Best of the Bay SAMOSA Contest Fastest Rolling & Best Tasting – Sponsored by India Plaza (*PRIZES for the Fastest Rollers & Best of the Bay overall Samosa)
- 01:45 – 2:00PM – DJ – Bollywood Music
- 02:00 – 3:00PM -TRAVEL THROUGHOUT ALL OF INDIA. NO PASSPORTS NEEDED! Unity in Diversity! Come see, hear, and taste from the culture from several regions
- 03:00 – 6:00PM – Bollywood Extravaganza! Live Dance Performances
Sunday-June 26
- 12:00 – 12:30 – Welcome young and old for yoga and meditation basics with Yogi Mahendra
- 10:00 – 1:00PM – My PART by ART: A World Art competition to help Benefits to Aid Japanese Tsunami Relief (In partnership with local corporations and non-profits)
- 01:15 – 1:45PM – Cooking Demo- Come learn the regional cuisines across the country of India
- 01:45 – 2:00PM – DJ – Bollywood Hits
- 02:00 – 3:00PM – TRAVEL THROUGHOUT ALL OF INDIA. NO PASSPORTS NEEDED! Unity in Diversity! Come see, hear, and taste from the culture from several regions
- 03:00 – 6:00PM – Bollywood Extravaganza!
There are a zillion others fun activities going on at the fair – check http://www.alamedacountyfair.com/2011fair/home/index.php
FREE FAMILY YOGA WORKSHOP
TO REGISTER: http://secure.artofliving.org/event_details.aspx?event_id=100763
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| Adult and child yoga class Come spend an hour and half with your child (8+)to learn to destress, relax and rejuvenate. Learn important skills such as focus, concentration and improving memory with your child. A perfect way to start the summer and get ready for the next school year or the important events in your life. Register once for both you and your child. |
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Girls Scouts Passport To India event in Pleasanton
On May 20, 2011, in Pleasanton, kids get to experience a bit India in the form of Henna Tattoos, food, fashion, entertainment in Mohr Elementary School – thanks to the Girls Scouts event Flight International Passport to India – a Gold Award event.
Presented by Girls Scouts of Northern California, Crossroads Service Unit, the event is hosted by Nehal Tenany (Troop 31473).
Its a great event for kids of all ages! All Activities are FREE! Include food, Henna Tattoos and much more!
Date: Friday, May 20, 2011
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Come and go anytime!
Place: Mohr Elementary School
3000 Dennis Drive, Pleasanton
Multipurpose Room
Full of Fun and Learning – Experience the Indian culture, food, fashion, entertainment, religion, and more!
There will be a series of booths filled with activities great for the family! Learn how to write in Hindi! Try the various foods! Even get a Henna tattoo! Kids will be issued a “Cultural passport”. This passport will get stamped at different booths. Completed passports will get a small prize.
Donations are welcome. All donations will be contributed to a non -profit educational organization in India!
No prior registration is necessary. For any questions, please contact: [email protected]. Or call 925-600-9940 for details!
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout 14-18 may earn. Someone once described the Girl Scout Gold Award as being “what you really want to be remembered for” in Girl Scouting. For many, the leadership skills, organizational skills, and sense of community and commitment that come from “going for the Gold” set the foundation for a lifetime of active citizenship.
Spring Egg Hunt in Emerald Glen Park
With winter and rain behind, kids would want to be out in the parks. Celebrate Spring with ‘The Eggstravaganza’ that begins at 10:00am and ends at 11:30am on April 23, 2011. The Spring Eggstravaganza features a unique Free Style egg hunt where children do not compete to pick up as many eggs as possible. Two designated egg hunt areas will allow you and your children to leisurely pick up eggs and take photographs. There is a limit of 10 eggs per paid participant. Other fun features of this event will include:
- Carnival games with prizes
- Bounce Houses
- Face Painting
- Arts and Crafts
- Petting Zoo
- Bubble Station
- Parachutes games
- Refreshments
- and
- A photo opportunity with Peter Rabbit!
Emerald Glen Park – Near Tennis Courts
4201 Central Parkway
Dublin, CA 94568
Emerald Glen Park encompasses 40 acres and features a playground with water activities, bocce ball courts and a skateboard park and tennis and basketball courts that are well lit for evening enjoyment.
$6.50 Residents
$7.50 Non Residents
Phone: 925-556-4500 http://www.dublinrecguide.com/
Rough ride for Holi celebrations in Tri Valley
With the number of Indian immigrants settling in Tri Valley increasing at the rate it is, if anything, one would imagine increasing community organization and participation.
So its almost not heartening to know that Holi celebration in Tri Valley this year (2011) is not on a smooth ride. The TVIA (Tri Valley Indian Association) did an excellent job organizing Holi at the Emerald Glen park in Dublin last year (2010). The event was well organized, and was a hit. There was music, dance, games, color and a lot of bonhomie, and participation. However, from there on, first the TVIA Diwali plan last year went awry (lack of participation/interest – read tickets not sold), and then this year no Holi because of lack of volunteers to organize it.
Sure, the community needs helping hands!
In any case, there is some ray of hope. ‘Art of Living Tri-Valley Center – Pleasanton/ Dublin/ San Ramon’ was apparently up to something, and they have announced holding a potluck – ‘Festival of Colors (Holi)‘ on March 19th, 2011 at 11:30 AM, and they invite friends and family to join. The location is
Limerick Park
2833 Bethany Road
San Ramon, CA 94582
If you may want to go, please contact the center (925-336-1203, 510-593-5858, sanramon[a]us.artofliving.org) for participating in the food potluck.
Other than this, surely some groups of friends may be getting ready for celebrating Holi. The official Holi date actually is March 20 (Sunday) – so don’t be surprised to see brethren from India in colors of holi in parks during the weekend of March 19-20. If any groups are forming, please spread the word around. The more the people, the merrier and colorrier!
If you are willing to drive 25+ miles, there could be other good options:.
- Asha Stanford Holi 2011 Saturday, April 2 · 10:00am – 1:00pm Sandhill Fields Oak Rd Stanford, CA
- Holi Garba-Raas Party – March 12, 2011 8PM – Jain Temple Milpitas
- SEF UPMA Holi Mela 2011 Mar 19 2011 Time: 11:00 AM
- Holi Celebration & Mela at Sunnyvale Hindu Temple Mar 20 2011, Holi Dahan on Friday March 18th @ 07.00 PM
- Janyaa presents Holi Cupertino, CA 2011 Mar 13 2011 10:00AM
- BAYVP Holi Garba Celebration Mar 26 2011
- GCA Dhuleti Celebration Mar 19 2011 11:00AM
- Rajasthani Holi 2011 Mar 19 2011 9:00AM
For details, google the events.
Art of Living is living and thriving in Tri Valley
Recently a friend attended a three day Art of Meditation course, and another talked about it. And then another one. So looks like Art of Living San Ramon/Pleasanton center is coming of age.
There is a FREE event in the effering. Called “Meditation Marathon”, it will be held on March 5th 2011 at the Art of Living Center for Yoga and Meditation, Tri Valley location 6690 Amador Plaza Road, Suite 215 Dublin (925-5AOL-101). The event begins at 9am and ends at 4:00pm. There will have multiple sessions that will “help you explore your mind and bring you to the peace within”. This event is for beginners as well as seasoned meditators.
Schedule of Events:
SUKSHMA YOGA – ancient yoga that prepares the mind and body for meditation
BREATHING TECHNIQUES – learn techniques and tools to take home to quieten the mind and relax
GUIDED MEDITATIONS – led by world renowned Spiritual leader
VIDEO PRESENTATION – to understand the mechanics of the mind
CHANTING – Chanting meditation
Participants should bring a yoga mat, water and a blanket. There are no registration requirements, but confirm by calling the number above, or contact [email protected] for more information.
There is Art Excel Follow Up on Mar 06, 2011 at 4:00 PM, again a free event.
The next course (paid – $250) would be Saturday, March 17 – 20. In just three sessions of two hours each, participants “learn to tap the depths of our nature. After the course we can use this simple meditation practice to overcome the effects of inevitable stressful situations and make a positive impact on the quality of our lives”. The highlight of the course is the Sudarshan Kriya: An immensely powerful technique that incorporates specific natural rhythms of breath to release stress and purify the entire system by releasing toxins at the deepest cellular level. In addition you can expect talks on wisdom, useful breathing techniques, and even some fun!
There is another course from March 26th-28th, 2011
- Friday Singing Satsang at 7 p.m. at the Tri-Valley Center
- Long Kriya Schedule at the Center: Wednesday Long Kriya 7pm-8:30pm, Saturday Long Kriya 7am-9am
- Mahasivaratri Celebrations, March 2nd, 2011 from 7pm onwards at Tri-Valley Center
The center may also organize Festival of Colors (Holi) on March 19th, 2011. Stay tuned for updates here.
Diwali Celebrations this year
How is it like celebrating Diwali in bay area this year 2010? There’s been Dandiya dances all over in October. The desi stores are decked up with Diwali mithai and puja stuff. You could be planning get-togethers with friends and family. And now there are Diwali festivals being organized all over the bay area, and you could decide to attend one of those.
There is general festivity in the air. Even the stores in the malls and elsewhere are beginning to show that holiday season is not far away. So if you would like to do any new purchases on occasion of Diwali – the Dhanteras Tradition, its not a bad time either.
The lead this year, like others, for Diwali celebration is being provided by the temples of the region.
The Bay Area Youth Vaishnav Parivar is organizing what they call ‘Diwali Celebration like back home in India‘ for five days from Nov 2 to 7 in Milpitas.
The Sunnyvale Hindu Temple is organizing Diwali Mela 2010 from Oct 29 – 31. The Livermore Hindu Temple is organizing special puja on Nov 5 and 6. The Fremont temple has the big festival going on on Nov 6. The Sikh Gurudwaras have a huge Diwali celebration and langar on Diwali as well.
Adding to the festival calendar during this time, especially for the kids, is Halloween. If adults want to indulge, there is Halloween Party + Miss India Norcal at an event organized in Milpitas.
The businesses and other associations have been active as well. Cupertino Chamber of Commerce & Asian American Business Council organized Diwali Festival on Oct 8, and IIT Foundation had their cultural competition on Oct 2 in Campbell.
The Tri Valley Indian Association is also organizing their Diwali night on Nov 13 at the Hart Middle School, Pleasanton. So if you are in Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore, Danville – this could be your local Diwali festival. (UPDATE Nov 4, 2010 – the Pleasanton event stands cancelled).
Private parties and potlucks on Diwali are common – then there are Diwali Meetups like this one if one is interested in for San Ramon Pleasanton area for Nov 6.
And finally, for the day of Diwali, plan on dressing up, lighting up your house, do rangoli, puja, eat a lot of mitthai but refrain from any fireworks.
Traditions engaged dance festival in San Francisco, Oct 1-3
Chitresh Das Dance Company & Chhandam School of Kathak invite you to the historic unprecedented festival – Traditions Engaged: An International Festival of Classical Indian Dance & Music.
Experience a weekend of dynamic dance & percussion, and dramatic storytelling by the world’s foremost masters, Gurus, and artists of the many diverse classical Indian dance forms: Kathak, Bharath Natyam, Odissi, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Gauriya Nritya.
See http://kathak.org/traditionsengaged/ for details.
India Independence Day 15th August Celebrations 2010
The Federation of Indian Associations is again organizing the grand mela and parade on August 15th 2010 (Sunday) at 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA, 94536 (Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave). The Festival of India Banquet Night would be held at San Ramon Marriott.
The booth price at the festival ranges from $550 for a non-profit to Corporate for $5,000. This big festival in the San Fransisco Bay Area, California, showcases and shares India’s rich culture and heritage through various events. Over 120 booths will feature Indian arts and crafts, Indian clothes, jewelry, food, and more. The parade is a work of art featuring 15 floats representing different states of India, the Indian-American community and businesses organizations. The grand carnival will feature Bollywood star Aftab Shivdasani and Bollywood Singer Arpita Mukerjee who will serve as Grand Marshals leading the parade. Parade assembly is at 12 noon sharp, with entertainment and shows set to commence at 2 p.m., continuing throughout the day.
- For Parade, participants will line up on Capitol Avenue and proceed along Liberty Street onto Walnut Avenue.
Parade Route - COST: $5 general entrance. The health fair and Sunday’s parade are free. The tickets can be purchased at the gate for $5. Entry tickets need to be purchased separately for Saturday, August 14th, 2010 and Sunday, August 15th, 2010. Tickets will be valid for the day purchased only and need to be exchanged to wrist bands at the “On-line” ticketing window near the mela entrance. If you bought a $4 ticket online prior to Aug 13, get an printed email confirmation.
- Festival kicks off at 10 a.m. Saturday with a free health fair that includes consultations with more than 100 doctors and nurses
- It costs about $250,000 to hold the two-day festival, the Bay Area’s largest Indo-American celebration
- Organizers had to cancel the 2008 parade because of a lack of funds
- Festival of India became an instant success when it started in 1992
- More than 50,000 visitors expected to central Fremont
- Celebrations will begin Friday, August 13 with an official flag raising ceremony at San Jose’ City Hall at 6:30 p.m
- Parking available in neighboring commercial lots. See Parking Map for the Independence Day Festival in Fremont here. Parking Map 2010 Festival of India Fremont(courtesy fiaonline.org)
There will also be a Free Health Fair (10:00 am – 01:00 pm), Dance Competition, Kids Corner, Mela on Sat, August 14, 11am – 7pm at Fremont Hall of Justice Parking Lot at corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave.
Dance Competition Entry Form Deadline is Fri, August 6, 11:30pm – Sat, August 7, 12:00am. The form can be accessed here.
2010 Grand Marshal is Aftab Shivdasani. Last year it was Mauli Dave (Singer)
Chief Guests this year are Jeevika Shah, Mrs. India 2004 and Arpita Mukerjee, Bollywood Singer
Indian Musical Extravaganza with SaReGaMaPa Finalist Mauli Dave
Time 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Festival Mela Stage
Festival of India Banquet Night
Place: San Ramon Marriott
Time: 8:00 pm
Music, DJ and Sumptuous Indian Dinner
FIA Members: Free
Tickets: $50/Person
Free Health Fair
10:00 am – 01:00 pm
Saturday, Aug 14, 2010
Free Health Fair
10:00 am – 01:00 pm
Mela (Fair)
10:00 am – 07:00 pm
Dance Competition
11:00 am – 05:00 pm
Dance Competition/Awards
05:00 pm – 06:00 pm
Sunday, Aug 15, 2010
Mela (Fair)
10:00 am – 07:00 pm
Cultural Program
11:00 am – 12:00 Noon
Parade
12:00 Noon – 2:00 pm
More details to follow…
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Global Indian Technology Professional’s Association (GITPRO) is also celebrating India’s Independence Day (and its own Anniversary) as a free event on Sunday, August 15, 2010, 5:15-7:15 pm at Washington Park Hall, 840 W Washington Ave, Sunnyvale, California.
High Lights:
1. Journey and the Role of Indian Entrepreneurs in USA/India
2. 1857 the First War of Independence
3. Hindi Patriotic Songs Cultural Program
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Sunnyvale Hindu Temple – Cultural Event on the occasion of Independence of India
By Mile Sur Mera Tumhara Group
Sunday 15th Aug, 2010 4:00PM – 6:30PM
(Free & Snacks will be served)
Also, there would be a Hasya Kavi Sammelan by famous humorous Poets from India on Saturday 14th August 2010 8:00PM (its a ticketed event)
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Celebrating Independence Day of India, Big Cinemas will be screening a number of popular Bollywood movies free for cine lovers across the US.
Movies like ‘Rang De Basanti’, ‘Lage Raho Munnabhai’, ‘3 Idiots’, ‘Chak De India’, ‘Namaste London’, ‘Rock On’, ‘Sivaji’, ‘Dasavatharam’, and ‘Indian’ have been lined up for screening in 11 theaters for the week long ‘Spirit of my Tiraga’ beginning August 7.
BIG Cinemas is also the in-cinema partner for India Day Parade Fremont.