Holi, one of the most popular and widely celebrated festivals of India, was celebrated in traditional style across USA.

India Association of Long Island (IALI) celebrates Holi
LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): India Association of Long Island celebrated Holi at Akbar Restaurant on Sunday, March 31, 2013. The colorful event was organized by its Sangeet Forum group, Chaired by Mrs. Jyoti Gupta and Co-Chair Mrs. Rashmi Mittle.

The event which had an overwhelming turnout of more than 150 guests, was celebrated in a very traditional style, with lots of fun and gaiety. The guests were dressed up in traditional colorful clothing, men in Kurta/Pajamas , ladies in beautiful Sarees and Suits etc. As guests arrived, they were welcomed with Gulal Teeka, gajras and laddoos, followed by Thandai drink along with delicious snacks and lunch.

The program was commenced by the IALI President, Dr. Kishore Kuncham with a beautiful reading of the tradition of Holi by his Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and unveiling of the new colorful banner by Mrs. Raji Kuncham and Mrs. Bina Sabapathy. Singing of popular movie songs on Holi by many talented IALI members followed the formal commencement of the program. . Dr. Krishna Jhaveri and Dr. Vijay Chhabra recited a few couplets. Dr. Kuncham’s rendition of two of Yesudas’s famous songs drew loud applause. Dr. Chopra sang a classic Dilip Kumar / Rafi song in his melodious voice – “Mere pairon me ghunghroo bandha de to phir meri chaal dekh le”. An exquisite Holi dance performance by Mrs. Gunjan Rastogi climaxed the program. Dr. Kishore Kuncham and Mrs. Gunjan Rastogi emceed the program ably supported by Mrs. Jyoti Gupta. An open mike session for the guests was thoroughly enjoyed by everybody. Sponsors who very generously contributed were gratefully acknowledged. They included Rajbhog Sweets, Artistic Affairs, Mr. and Mrs. Gobind Gupta, Madhuram Sweets. Dr. & Mrs. Chakote & Dr. Chandra & Mrs. Sushma Kaushik.

The grand sponsor of the year, Mr. Salil Zaveri, who will be providing several educational seminars throughout the year was recognized. Also Media -Sahara One, TV Asia, IVS TV, The Indian Panorama and South Asian Times were thanked for the coverage of IALI Holi event.