Bhangra Fusion - A Punjabi Dance Music event comes to Detroit

Bhangra Fusion Eleven a Punjabi Dance and Music event takes place this Saturday, March 20th at the Fillmore Detroit (formerly known as the State Theatre) in Detroit, Michigan.

Bhangra Fusion is an annual professional competition where teams compete against one another, demonstrating a fusion of culture and creativity. This year marks the eleventh competition since Bhangra Fusion One back in 2000. For more details on the Detroit Bhangra Fusion event please visit Bhangra Fusion website.



So what is Bhangra

Bhangra is a lively form of folk music and dance that originates from Punjab. People traditionally performed Bhangra when celebrating the harvest. During Bhangra, people sing Punjabi Boliyaan lyrics, at least one person plays the the dhol drum, and other people may play the flute, dholak drum, or other musical instruments. While Bhangra began as a part of harvest festival celebrations, it eventually became a part of such diverse occasions as weddings and New Year celebrations. Moreover, during the last thirty years, Bhangra has enjoyed a surge in popularity worldwide, both in traditional form and as a fusion with genres such as hip-hop, house, and reggae.

Indian Dance and Music event in Traverse City, Michigan

The Dennos Musuem Center at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City will present the Nrityagram Dance Ensemble in collaboration with the Wharton Center at MSU on Sat, March 20 at 8:00 pm in the Milliken Auditorium.

So what is Nriyagram Dance Ensemble?

The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble is much more than just a dance company. It is a crucible of inspiration and ideas, a coming together of creative minds. It is a space where dancers, musicians and choreographers live together for years, developing their skill, perfecting their technique and complementing their learning of dance with a study of mythology and the epics, Sanskit and yoga, meditation and the martial arts.

Tickets for this event are $25 in advance, $28 at the door, $22 for Museum members. Tickets may be be purchased by calling 231-995-1553 or on line at www.dennosmuseum.org.

In addition to the public performance, the Nrityagram Dance Ensemble will be performing two concerts during the day for schools in Milliken Auditorium on March 19. For more information contact Diana Bolander at 231-995-1029.

Opening in association with the dance concert will be a photographic exhibition on Varanasi, India by Chicago based photographer Larry Snider. An exhibition preview will take place at the Dennos for concert goers from 7-8 before the dance concert.

Indian Community in Grand Rapids area to celebrate India's cultural Holidays

India Link a non-profit organization in the Grand Rapids area is sponsoring Springfest 2010, a simultaneous celebration of the Hindu holiday, Holi, and Baisakhi, a Sikh harvest festival.

The cultural gala will be celebrated at 6 p.m., March 27 at East Grand Rapids High School. All are welcome to attend. The Mardi Gras-like festivities include cultural dances, traditional Indian costumes, an array of Indian cuisine and music.

For more information visit India Link website.

(via MLive.com)

"The Sky Below" to be screened at Michigan State University

"The Sky Below" a documentary film which looks back at the division of India and Pakistan back in 1947, will be screened on March 18th in Room B106 of Michigan State University's Wells Hall. Admission is free. Director Sarah Singh of "The Sky Below" will be present at the screening. A Q&A and a reception will follow the film.

(via Lansing City Pulse)

Shreelina Ghosh of Michigan travels to Kolkata for Odissi Dance Performance

Michigan-based Odissi performer the talented Shreelina Ghosh will present Shivārādhanā at Gyan Mancha, Kolkata, on Sunday, 7th March 2010, at 7:00 p.m. This is a Shinjan Nrityalaya presentation.

The artist will explore and worship the facets of Shiva and his consort, Shivā (Parvati) through a collage of traditional and new choreographies. The recital will portray the inseparable duality in the universe: Matter and Consciousness, Purusha and Prakriti represented by Shiva and Pārvati, through the spiritual expressions of tāndava and lāsya.

Pakhwaj: Guru Giridhari Nayak
Sitar: Sri Sukhomoy Bhattacharya
Vocal: Sri Bishwajit Ghosh
Flute: Sri Jayanta Chatterjee

Shreelina has undergone twenty-five years of rigorous training under the able tutelage of eminent Odissi exponent, Guru Aloka Kanungo. She is currently a PhD research scholar in Cultural/ Digital/ Performative Rhetorics at Michigan State University.

Ghazal Maestro Jagjit Singh comes to Michigan

Ghazal Maestro Jagjit Singh will be live in concert on November 14th, 2009 at Seaholm High school, 2436 West Lincoln Road, Birmingham, MI 48009. The show starts at 8.00 pm.

Tickets are $35, $45, $55, $75 and VIP. For tickets call Mr. Deepak of Palace Entertainment at 586-506-0043. (Thanks to Rajiv Sanghvi of Swarbahar for the info).

Shreelina Ghosh Mukherjee will be performing live at a diversity-focused event sponsored by the "The Human Relations" commission of "City of Livonia". This event has been scheduled for Sunday, November 8th at 2:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Library Auditorium (32777 Five Mile Road, Michigan 48154).

Shreelina Ghosh an International student working on her PhD has offered to volunteer her time to do a demonstration of Odissi, one of the seven dance forms of India.

Please visit City of Livonia website for more details.

Governor Granholm - Keynote Speaker at the CAPA Statewide Leadership Summit

Just been informed that Governor Jennifer Granholm will be the keynote speaker at the "2009 Statewide Asian Pacific American Leadership Summit" which will take place on Saturday October 24th, 2009 from 9.00AM - 3.00PM at Novi Community Center, 45175 West 10 Mile Road, Novi, Michigan 48375. This event is being organized by The Council of Asian and Pacific Americans (CAPA).

For registration and details of this event please visit CAPA website.

This is an update to my previous blog post on this event.

Diwali Celebrations in Michigan - 2009

Diwali will be celebrated this year on October 17th. Number of Indian Community Groups in our area have planned Diwali events/celebrations. Here are some of them. If you know of more then please do send us a note or add comments:

(UPAD) Uttar Pradesh Association of Detroit: (website)
Saturday November 7th, 2009
(5:30 PM - 11.30 PM)
Costick Activity Center
28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI
(248) 473-1816

(IACA) Indian American Cultural Association (website)
Saturday October 24th, 2009 (5.30 PM - 10.30 PM)
Costick Activity Center
28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI

(GSOD) Gujarati Samaj of Greater Detroit (website)
Saturday October 24th, 2009 (5.00 PM)
Seaholm HIgh School, 2436 West Lincoln Road, Birmingham, MI 48009

(DTA) Detroit Telugu Association (website)
Saturday October 24th, 2009 (5.30 PM - 11.00 PM)
Walled Lake Central High School
1600 Oakley Park, Walled Lake, MI 48390

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

The Council of Asian Pacific Americans (CAP A) will host a statewide leadership conference on Saturday, October 24, 2009, focusing on building bridges and fostering growth between the Asian Pacific American community and other organizations with the goal of bringing about positive social change. The seventh annual Asian Pacific American Leadership Summit will be held from 9:00am – 3:00pm at the Novi Community Center - 45175 West 10 Mile Rd, Novi, MI.

The 2009 Leadership Summit will open with remarks by Dr. Leslie Wong, President of Northern Michigan University, and the keynote address on leading through sustained crisis will be given by Mr. Dan Mulhern, First Gentleman of Michigan. Other topics covered in the summit workshops will include fundraising & grant writing, education & mentoring and healthcare.

Mumtaz Haque, 2009 CAPA President had this to say

Our 2009 Statewide Asian and Pacific American Leadership Summit will be a great opportunity for Asian leaders from across Michigan to come face to face, network, build awareness and collaboration

Sponsorships for the 2009 Leadership Summit are still available. Please contact Mumtaz Haque, CAPA President, for more information at (248) 703-6228 or email mumtaz@capa-mi.org . For additional details about the conference, please visit the CAPA website.

Michigan International Chamber of Commerce Event

Michigan International Chamber of Commerce (MIICC) is organizing a Networking event on October 14th, 2009 at Dykema Gossett located at 39577 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI. This event will be from 5.30 PM to 8.30 PM. Cost is $25 for non-members and no cost to members. Refreshments will be provided.

The organizers plan to have "musical chairs" and ensure that everyone meets everyone and they get a chance to further their network. So bring lots of business cards and feel free to bring brochures, hands-outs, and freebies to build your referral network.

Please visit MIICC website for more details or call 248-470-6299

Ravi Shankar with daughter Anoushka Shankar at Ann Arbor, MI

The University Musical Society (UMS) presents the legendary sitarist Ravi Shankar with his daughter and fellow sitarist and composer Anoushka Shankar on Thursday, October 15 at 8 p.m. in Ann Arbor’s Hill Auditorium (825 North University Avenue).

For tickets or additional information, contact the University Musical Society at 734-764-2538 or online at www.ums.org. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the League Ticket Office (911 North University Avenue). UMS Ticket Office hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., closed Sunday.

Gandhi Jayanti Celebration in Canton, MI

What is Gandhi Jayanti?

It is a national holiday celebrated in India to mark the occasion of the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the "Father of the Nation"

Canton Cultural Commission Multicultural Committee is organizing "Gandhi Jayanti Celebration" a FREE family event on Friday October 2nd, 2009. This event is scheduled for Friday October 2nd, 2009 at the Village Theater at Cherry Hill, 50400 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48187. The doors open at 6.30 PM.

The Keynote Speaker for this event is Dr. Madav Deshpande - Professor of Sanskrit and Hinduism at the University of Michigan.

Amit Paul comes to Michigan

Bichitra Inc is sponsoring Indian Idol sensation Amit Paul's visit to Michigan on Friday October 2nd. Amit Paul will be live in concert on October 2nd at West Bloomfield High School located at 4925 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48323-2964Auditorium from 8 pm to 10 pm.

For tickets call Paula Gangopadhyay, president of Bichitra Inc at 248-305-3051. Tickets for Students is discounted and can be purchased by calling

• Michigan State University - Easha Kumar (517-285-2503)
• University of Michigan - Reejuta Joshi (248-739-9230)
• Wayne State University Tanuka Dutta (tanuk@wayne.edu)

Here's Amit Paul singing Nasha Yeh Pyar Ka - Awesome!!

Stop Domestic Violence Walkathon on October 3, 2009

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. So MAIFS (Michigan Asian Indian Family Services) is organizing a 5K walkathon to end domestic violence in our community. Domestic violence does take place in our South Asian community. Eighty percent of calls received by MAIFS on their helpline is related to domestic violence. Domestic violence refers to a pattern of physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and economic abuse inflicted by one partner over another in a relationship.

The 5K walkathon event is scheduled for October 3rd, 2009 at Rochester Muncipal Park, 400 6th Street, Rochester MI 48307. Sign in is from 8 AM - 10 AM and then there is family fun activities (face painting, raffles, mehndi and more) from 10 AM - 1 PM.

For more details including registration please visit MAIFS website.

Miss Michigan USA (2010) contestant(s)

Meet Miss Nikki Shah, a contestant from the Michigan Indian Community for "2010 Miss Michigan USA" pageant which will be held on September 18-19 at Mcmorran place theater, Port Huron, MI.

Nikki Shah (20) is a Junior at Wayne State University, majoring in Theater and Performing Arts. Nikki has been modeling for local boutiques for last 2 years. Nikki recently participated in a fashion show for brand name "Ed hardy".

Best Wishes to Nikki for the upcoming "2010 Miss Michigan USA" pageant. The winner of 2010 Miss Michigan USA Pageant will represent Michigan in the upcoming (Spring 2010) "Miss USA Pageant".

Do you know any other contestants from Michigan Indian Community taking part in the upcoming Pageant, then do let us know here.

Networking Dinner Cruise on September 15th, 2009

Michigan International Chamber of Commerce is organizing a "Networking Dinner Cruise" on board the Infinity Yacht which will cruise the Detroit River for 2 1/2 hours. This is scheduled for Tuesday September 15th 2009 from 6.00 pm to 10 pm. The cost is $99 which includes an elaborate dinner, open premium bar and sumptuous desserts.

The goal as mentioned in the event brochure is to "facilitate 'effective' networking between business owners and community leaders". The chamber has confirmed participation from a leading political and business power broker from Washington D.C. Other invitees include entrepreneurs as well as business and community leaders from Michigan and outside of Michigan.

Please call MIICC at (248) 470-6299 for more details about this event.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam visits Michigan on September 17th, 2009

Oakland University presents as part of their Varner Vitality Seminar Series, an evening with the Former President of India - Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on Thursday, September 17th, 2009 at 7.30 p.m. (doors open at 5.30 p.m.). The Varner Vitality Lecture Series is designed to sustain the scholarly aspirations of the university community while enhancing, invigorating and uniting university life.

This event will be held at Oakland Univeristy O'rena, Rochester, Michigan. Lecture is open to the public at no charge. Seating is limited. For more information call (248) 370-2090 or visit Oakland University website.

US Corporate Cricket Championship in Michigan

Michigan Cricket Association is organizing a "US Corporate Cricket Championship" on August 8th and August 9th. This was previously called "Big 3 Cricket Challenge Cup".

The teams participating this year are:

• Altair Engineering
• Blue Cross Blue Shield/li>
• Chrysler Group
• Ford Motor Company
• General Motors
• TCS & Affiliates

The Venues for this year's games are:

Lyon Oaks Park, Wixon, MI
Bloomer Park, Rochester, MI

Fore more details check out Michigan Cricket Association website.

Sunidhi Chauhan coming to Metro Detroit

Sunidhi Chauhan, Javed Ali and Hard Kaur will be performing at Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin's (MAPI) Annual Gala Event on August 15th, 2009 at the Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway, Detroit MI 48226. The show starts at 8.00 PM. This event will feature Sunidhi Chauhan, Javed Ali and Hard Kaur.

It will be great if the organizers can invite Michigan's very own, the talented Darshana Menon (Winner of SA RE GA MA PA USA) to do the opening act and introduce Sunidhi Chauhan.

For more details visit MAPI website.

India Day 2009

India League of America brings to you "India Day 2009" a mega Indian Event of 2009 in Michigan. The event will be held on August 16th, 2009 from 10 AM to 8 PM at Rock Financial Showplace, 46100 Grand River Avenue, Novi, MI 48374.

Celebrate India's Independence Day with "Free Admission" to this event. You can participate in "Freedom Parade", enjoy live Indian Cultural Programs. There will also be plenty of authentic Indian Food from local area Indian Restaurants. At this event you can also shop for Indian clothing, jewelery and artifacts.

Visit the event website for more details

Indian Classical Dance at Lansing, MI

Michigan Odissi Dance Academy brings to you "An Evening of Indian Classical Dance" with Shreelina Ghosh and Manasi Mishra on Saturday August 29th, 2009 from 6.00 pm to 7.30 pm at:
Kinawa Middle School Auditorium
1900 Kinawa Drive, Okemos, MI 48864

Tickets are priced very reasonably at $5.00 for students and $10.00 for family. For more details visit michiganodissi.googlepages.com

This is a great opportunity to experience the glimpses of ancient Indian classical aesthetic and spiritual traditions. Odissi is a 2000 year old performative art in India and one of the seven classical dances of the region. Both Shreelina Ghosh and Manasi Mishra will not only demonstrate the physical aspects of performance, but also how it evolved from the sculptures of Konark and Khajuraho temples and vegetable-dye "Pata Chitra" artwork.

Here's Shreelina Ghosh:

Michigan India Chamber of Commerce Event - June 17th, 2009

Focusing on the topic of “growth through professional and business coaching,” MIICC (Michigan India Chamber of Commerce) will host an interactive panel discussion on Wednesday, June 17th, 2009 from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The business coaching interactive panel will be held at the Dykema Gossett offices located at 39577 Woodward Avenue in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The panel members are:

Prafulla Pande, President of Pande Associates (http://pandeassociates.com/pande/) and Doron York, President of Business Edge International (www.bizedgegroup.com)

MIICC will also announce the launch of a group coaching session to help business owners take advantage of coaching at affordable, group rates. Register today by visiting: http://www.miicc.com/event_register.php

Maharashtra Mandal of Detroit presents a play by local artists

Maharashtra Mandal of Detroit brings to you over 2 hours of non-stop entertainment (play) by local artists.

Details:

Ghetlay Shingawar (directed by the legendary Michigan Indian Radio Host: Dr. Subhash Kelkar)

Date: Saturday June 13, 2009

Time: 4.00 pm

Location: Groves Little Theater, Groves High School, 20500 W. Thirteen Mile, Road, Beverly Hills, MI

For more details visit Maharashtra Mandal of Detroit website.

HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji in Metro Detroit

HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji will be in the Metro Detroit area on June 16th and June 17th.

June 16th:

at Bharatiya Temple, 6850 Adams Road, Troy, MI 48098.

The event starts at 6.00pm

The Program:
1. Essence of Srimad Bhagavad Githa in English (Geetartha Sangraha)
2. Sri Krishna Puja
3. Maha Prasad

June 17th:

at Dr. Krishna Prasad & Vimala Yarlagadda, 609 Weybridge Drive, Bloomfield Hills, MI

The event starts at 8.00AM

The Program:
Theertha Ghosti

For more details on Swamiji's US visit click here or contact Narsraj at (248-924-4367) or email JETMichigan@gmail.com

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration at Lansing, MI

The seventh annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration will take place at the State Capitol (Lansing, MI) on May 19, 2009. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage” honors the many contributions citizens of Asian and Pacific Island ancestry have made to America.

The celebration features a multi-cultural program highlighting traditional dance performance, video clips of various Asian ethnicities and sampling of authentic Asian cuisines. Most importantly, Dr. Leslie E. “Les” Wong, President of Northern Michigan University, will give the keynote address.

For additional information or to request special accommodations, please contact Hoon-Yung Hopgood at 313/510-4358 or hoonhop@hotmail.com.

For more information on the Governor’s Advisory Council on Asian Pacific American
Affairs, visit http://www.michigan.gov/mdcr-acapaa.

CRY Detroit presents fundraising dinner

The Detroit Chapter of CRY will be having its fundraising dinner on Saturday May 16th, 2009 from 6.00PM to 11.00pm at St. Lucy Croatian Catholic Church Hall, 200 East Wattles, Troy, MI 48058.

CRY, which stands for Child Rights and You, is an Indian Non-Government Organization (NGO) that works towards restoring basic rights to underprivileged Indian children.

The funds raised during this event is for Child Rights in India and the US. The highlights of the evening include keynote speech by CRY Project Leader from India.

For more info visit CRY Detroit website or contact

• Monika Khanna 586-610-6329
  MKHANNA06[AT]GMAIL[DOT]COM
• Apoorv Agarwal 248-505-1519 APOORV.AGARWAL[AT]GMAIL[DOT]COM

Bridging the Generation Gap: An Interactive Workshop

Council of Asian Pacific Americans (CAPA) presents a FREE Interactive Workshop on "Bridging the Generation Gap" on Saturday May 16th, 2009 from 1-4 pm at Oakland Community College, (G Building), 2900 Featherstone Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326.

This from the event brochure:

This action-packed workshop will bring your family together through teamwork games & thought-provoking discussions by 2 exciting speakers. Enjoy entertaining skits, activities to take home, and a chance to win exciting prizes! There will be a special performance by rising Hip Hop artist, Kidd Skilly (of hit songs such as “Ni Sohniye” featuring Akon) focusing on generation gap issues.

MIICC meeting on May 13th

Michigan Indian Chamber of Commerce (MIICC) will hold its monthly meeting on May 13th at Dykema Gossett Law Offices: 39577 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills, MI from 5:30 pm to 8:30 p.

Learn about "Speed Networking" at this meeting.

Speed networking means YOU get to spend 2-3 minutes with each participant to share what you do and to learn what they do.

So for this meeting be sure to come prepared with your:
60 second commercial (make it short and concise)
specific wants (companies you wish to connect with, customers you want to get, etc.)
brochures, business cards, specials, and any other collateral you want to share.

For more details check out MIICC website.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN coming to town

Dr. Sanjay Gupta will be the guest of honor this Saturday May 9th (5.00pm) at a Indian Musical Event which will be held at Mother of God Church Hall, 25585 Berg Road, Southfield, MI. This event is a singing competition which will be judged by: (For Ticket Details click here)

• Mumtaz Haque (Host/Producer of Manoranjan Show on WPON 1460AM on Sundays from 9 - 11AM)
• Darshana Menon - A very Talented Singer and winner of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa USA
• Narendra Sheth - Host/Producer of Geetmala on WPON 1460AM on Saturdays from 11AM-1PM)
• Rujuta Joshi
• M.R. (Suri) Surendran
• Norani Chandra

Splendor of the East 2009

On Friday, May 1, 2009 at 7:00pm, the Council of Asian Pacific Americans (CAPA) will once again bring their popular annual culture showcase “Splendor of the East 2009” to the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center at 15801 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn, MI.

As in years past, the “Splendor of the East” program will promote the unique cultural heritage of Asian Pacific cultures through spectacular musical and dance performances exhibiting the colorful cultures of our neighbors on the other side of the globe. This year’s event theme is “Coming to America – A Cultural Collage”, and will present both traditional Asian-Pacific heritages as well as American cultural influences on immigrants.

Tickets for the event are now on sale here. Please contact Mai Xiong at mai@capa-mi.org for any ticketing questions. For more information on the event, contact Angela Wang at angela@capa-mi.org.

Michigan Asian Indian Family Services offers Free Resume Workshop

MAIFS (Michigan Asian Indian Family Services) offers a free Resume Workshop on February 15th, 2009 at the Northville Public Library, 212 W. Cady Street, Northville, MI 48167. The event will be held from 2pm - 5pm. Visit MAIFS website for more details.

In this free Resume Workshop you will learn strategies to succeed in high unemployment market:

• Are you greater than your resume? If yes, so what? If no, now what?
• Your resume says you are applying for a different job. Oops!
• Form and substance - the medium is sometimes the message.

Seminar for Young Married Couples in Ann Arbor, MI

I first heard of this event on Narendra Sheth's radio program. It is a 2 day seminar hosted by Chinmaya Mission, Ann Arbor on July 25-26, 2009. This is seminar exclusively for young married couples between the ages of 25-38 (either spouse). The seminar adresses the following topics:

• Vision of Life for Married Householders
• Joys and Challenges of Married Life
• Parenting
• Dealing with Emotions and Relations

The thing though is that this seminar is not free. It will cost you $200 and if you are not from the area then you will have to arrange for your own hotel accomodations. Check out Chinmaya Mission, Ann Arbor website for more details.

So my question is what about those couples who are struggling hard in this economy and might not be able to afford $200. So where do these couples go for help? Are there any local Indian Community organizations which offer similar services at no cost?

Larry Sterzinger from Google - Guest Speaker at MIICC meeting on January 14th, 2009

Michigan Indian Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly meeting on January 14th, 2009 which will feature guest speaker Larry Sterzinger from Google.

I wish I could attend this meeting but personal reasons will prevent me from showing up.

The meeting will be held at Dykema Gossett Law Offices: 39577 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills, MI from 5.30 pm to 8.00 pm.

PLEASE register for the meeting by visiting MICC.

Call Nipa at 248-470-6299 or send email to admin@miicc.com with any questions you may have.

"Our India Story" a film featuring Michigan Indian Community

The film "Our India Story" has been made by Keith Famie who has been working on it for last 14 months. He has filmed almost 70 hours which has been condensed to under an hour.

At Flavors of India an event celebrating Culture, Heritage and Community scheduled for December 14th (5.00pm) at Rock Financial Showplace, Grand River, Novi, there will be a premier screeening of "Our India Story" which will later be aired by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 on December 20th at 7 pm.

From HomeTownLife.com

The film features Farmington Hills landmarks.

Siriesha Mandava, who owns Priya Restaurant on Grand River in Farmington Hills, and the Jain Temple on 12 Mile in Farmington Hills are featured in the film, along with the Jain congregation.

"One of the temple members is a woman who is 104," Famie said. "She worked with Gandhi."

The story is told by the people through their interviews. Metro-Detroit Asian Indians tell their stories of arriving in America, among other topics.

Part of Famie's work was filmed in India.

"We spent 40 hours on airplanes and traveled 47,000 miles," Famie said, of the 13-day trip.

There are no commercials during the film. Funds are raised by contacting various community leaders, Famie said. He visited a number of temples and restaurants in metro-Detroit to find the interviewees.

"I'm looking for really good storytellers," he said. "I take these processes very personally. I feel that I am the voice and the ambassador for the community."

Famie is the director and producer of the film. He is also a chef and was a contestant on the 2001 reality hit TV show, Survivor: Australian Outback, where he took third place.

For more information or for event tickets priced at $75 each, call Famie at (248) 869-0096.

Narayana Murthy - "Bill Gates" of Asia to visit Metro Detroit

Mr. Narayana Murthy - is the founder of Infosys Technologies Limited, a global information technology consulting and software services provider, headquartered in Bangalore, India. His entrepreneurial spirit and determination has resulted in tremendous cost savings for companies across Europe and the United States, and his business endeavors are also credited with helping lift India out of poverty.

A luncheon honoring Mr. Narayana Murthy is being cosponsored by The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) and will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, December 12 at the Troy Marriott. The cost for the luncheon is $40, and registrations can be made online. For more information go to www.sba.oakland.edu/ce and click on Mr. Murthy Honorary Degree Luncheon under upcoming events, or call Oakland University SBA at 248-370-3177.

You can also email at: sba-ce@lists.oakland.edu for the registration links and directions.

Amma in Michigan

Amma (Mata Amritanandamayi Devi), an Indian spiritual leader revered as a saint by her followers, who also know her as "Amma", "Ammachi" or "Mother" will be in Michigan as part of her 2008 North American Tour from November 30th thru December 4th, 2008.

Amma will be at Hyatt Regency Dearborn, 600 Town Center Drive, Dearborn, Michigan 48126-2793 (Tel: 313.593.1234).

Please visit amma.org for more details.

Diwali Celebrations in our Community

Diwali will be celebrated this year on October 28th. Number of Indian Community Groups in our area have planned Diwali events/celebrations. Here are some of them. If you know of more then please do send us a note or add comments:

(UPAD) Uttar Pradesh Association of Detroit: (website)
Saturday November 8th, 2008
(5:30 PM - 11.30 PM)
Costick Activity Center - Door A
28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI
(248) 473-1816

(IACA) Indian American Cultural Association (website)
Saturday November 1st, 2008 (5.30 PM - 10.30 PM)
Costick Activity Center
28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI

(GSOD) Gujarati Samaj of Greater Detroit (website)
Sunday November 9th, 2008 (5.00 PM)
Ford Community & Performing Arts Center
15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126

(DTA) Detroit Telugu Association (website)
Sunday November 8th, 2008 (5.30 PM - 11.00 PM)
Walled Lake Northern High School
6000 Boogie lake Road, Commerce Township, MI

Musical Event - "The Musical Odyssey"

"The Musical Odyssey" is scheduled at the Seaholm High School Auditorium in Birmingham on November 15, 2008 at 6:30pm. This event will include a multi-media live musical program with 15 singers and 30 musicians of International Repute including the Plymouth Symphony Orchestra.

This event is supported by Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (MAPI). The Funds raised from this event will support MAPI charitable medical clinics.

The brochure I came across at detroitindia.com shows quite a few talented singers. One of them mentioned is Darshana Menon - the winner of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa USA 2009. BUMMER!! those wanting to see the extremely talented "DARSHANA MENON" will be disappointed because, I just got word that DARSHANA MENON will not be in the show.

Here's what Darshana sounds like: (write to the organizers of the show to get Darshana!!)

Ronen Sen - India's Ambassador to United States comes to Michigan

The Center for South Asian Studies at the University of Michigan is pleased to announce an October 22, 2008 visit and public lecture by Indian Ambassador to the United States Ronen Sen. Ambassador Sen will speak on US/India foreign relations at 6:00 PM at the Alumni Center, located at 200 Fletcher Street. An open reception will follow the talk. Ambassador Sen’s visit helps inaugurate a major new three-year initiative of scholarly programs focused on contemporary South Asia, entitled “The Trehan India Initiative at the University of Michigan.” The initiative is made possible by a generous grant from Ranvir and Adarsh Trehan and the Trehan Foundation.

Ambassador Sen is one of India’s most distinguished senior diplomats. As such, he has lived and served in interesting times. Sen was India’s first Ambassador to a newly configured Russia following the demise of the former Soviet Union (1992-1998), and also served as ambassador to Germany during that country’s tumultuous reunification (1998-2002). Sen’s service in Moscow helped reestablish a longstanding friendship between India and Russia at a time when relations between the two countries were at a low ebb. He helped build a lasting partnership with Russia in part by underscoring a perennially valid set of shared interests between the two—not least among them a fervent Russian appreciation for Bollywood actor Raj Kapoor!

Please mark your calendars for October 22nd and welcome Ambassador Sen to the University of Michigan!

The Private World of India's Mughal Emperors

There's an exhibition opening at the Detroit Institute of Arts from Aug. 23 to November 16th, 2008 titled "The Private World of India's Mughal Emperors".

This exhibition features 86 outstanding miniature paintings, calligraphic examples and albums from the libraries of the Great Mughals of India: Akbar (r.1556–1605), Jahangir (r. 1605–1627) and Shah Jahan (r. 1628–1666).

For more details visit Detroit Institute of Arts Website.

Arjuna’s Dilemma a cross-cultural show in the New York area

If you are in the New York area on August 22nd, 23rd or August 24th, or if you know anyone in the New York area then pass this along to them.

Music-Theatre Group is thrilled to present three special preview performances of ARJUNA’S DILEMMA at the Pepsico Theater at SUNY Purchase in Purchase New York, August 22, 23 and 24 at 8:00pm. Tickets are $20. Click here for more details.

Arjuna’s Dilemma is a cross-cultural chamber opera adapted from the Hindu epic, Bhagavad Gita, and composed by Douglas J. Cuomo. The work centers on the moral and spiritual conflict of Arjuna, the warrior prince, on the eve of civil war, and the powerful spiritual counsel he receives from the Hindu god, Krishna and features a rich score melding classical, jazz and traditional Indian musical idioms. This is surely a story for our own times.

Scored for Indian singer (Humayun Kahn), Western tenor (Tony Boutte), female chorus and twelve instrumentalists including Badal Roy on tablas and Bob Franceschini on saxophone, the ethnically diverse cast reflects the universal nature of the story. The musical and dramatic conversation reflects a basic message found in the Bhagavad Gita: life is fundamentally dualistic and eternal unity comprises the play of opposites. Below is a brief outline of the story of Arjuna’s Dilemma.

Pre-Party to India Day 2008 Celebrations

Just got word that there's a "Pre-Party" to India Day 2008 Celebrations to be held on Friday August 8th at SIPS located at 30555 Grand River Avenue, Farmington Hills, MI. This event will start at 9.30PM.

Related: India Day 2008 Event

Click on the image below for "Pre-Party" event details:

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and Indian Idol Stars coming to Michigan

Raja Hasan and Mauli Dave of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa fame along with Indian Idol stars Emon Chatterjee and Amit Paul will perform live on Saturday August 2nd, 2008 at Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall located at 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI. The show starts at 5.45 pm.

This event titled "August Melodies" is being bought to you by Foundation of Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (FOMAPI). It is a Fund Raising Event for Cancer Awareness in Michigan and India. Ticket Prices range from $50 to $250. Check out Michigan Mantra for contact information for purchasing the tickets.

Here's the amazing Raja Hasan from Sa Re Ga Ma Pa

Indian Cultural Celebration in Detroit

Netlink, a company in Madison Heights, MI is putting on a Indian Cultural Celebration show in downtown Detroit at the Jazz Cafe on July 27th in the Music Hall from 5PM - 8PM.

As part of the celebration there will be a silent auction for a number of Indian clothes. Indian Food will be catered from Haandi. There will also be a spectacular dance performance by the renowned Sudha Chandra Shekar and the HTR Dance Troup, and comedian Jazz Mann will be on hand to entertain the guests. For more info on this event please click here.

Profits from ticket sales and auction, will go directly to Unicef children's foundation and CROMP, which is a South Asian based children's charity.

The price of the ticket is $100/person. If interested please contact: Anuj Lal - 248.701.0219 - anujlal@umich.edu.

Barack Obama Events in Michigan

If you are a Barack Obama supporter then check out this page I have put together which will show you all upcoming Barack Obama events in Michigan. Better yet, key in your Zip Code and this Google Maps page will show all Barack Obama events within radius of 10,20,30,40...miles from your zip code.

(Note: This page is not restricted to Michigan. You can select any state or Zip Code within United States)

Feel Stressed? Attend a "Art of Living" workshop in Warren, MI

Niraj Warikoo writes in today's Detroit Free Press about an event called "Practical Wisdom: Getting the Most out of Life" to be held at Renaissance Unity Church, 11200 E 11 mile road in Warren, MI on July 9th, 2008. The event kicks off at 6 PM.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living Foundation, will talk at an event that is expected to draw about 1,500 people.

Niraj then writes about what some in the MI Indian Community have to say about the event.

“It can show you how breath and meditation can bring peace of mind, things you can take home and do on a daily basis” said Karthik Krishnamurthy, 29, of Novi.

Krishnamurthy says that the breathing – known as Sudarshan Kriya – has made him more productive at work. He now teaches others about it.

“It helped me focus a lot more,” he said. “I used to get angry a lot. Now, I don’t as much, and when I do, I get out of it a lot faster.”

Detroit Free Press further adds

Shankar, 52, was born in India and developed his breathing technique in 1982. The Art of Living Foundation has grown into a program that reaches people in 145 countries, organizers said.

After the Sept. 11 attacks, the foundation provided free breathing and relief classes for survivors. It also has helped survivors of Hurricane Katrina and the Virginia Tech shootings. About 1,000 Michiganders have taken Art of Living classes.

Visit www.aolmi.org for event details.

Community Events - July 2008

MIICC (Michigan India Chamber of Commerce) monthly meeting.
If you are Barack Obama or a John McCain supporter then attend the MIICC meeting to hear the Michigan campaign leaders for Senator Obama and Senator McCain who will share their messages wth the Asian Indian community. The meeting is scheduled for July 9th at 39577 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, Mi 48304. The meeting starts at 5.30 pm. For more info visit MIICC website.

Entertaining Evening with Ghazal King - Kamran Mehdi Hassan (Son of Mehdi Hassan)
AFMI (American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin) welcomes Ram Vilas Paswan (Union Minister of Chemicals and Steel) and Other Dignitaries from India and Presents an Entertaining Evening, with
Ghazal King – Kamran Mehdi Hassan (Son of Mehdi Hassan) along with Narendra Sheth and Rujuta Joshi in Concert on Saturday, July 12, 2008
Program begins 6:00 PM Sharp, at
Lawrence Technological University
Science Building – Auditorium (S-100)
21000 West Ten Mile Rd.
Southfield, MI 48075-1058
(visit AFMI website for more details)

"Unforgettable Tour 2008" forgets Detroit

Detroit is not in the schedule of "Unforgettable Tour - 2008" which starts on July 18th, 2008 in Toronto, Canada. The Bollywood stars performing in the "Unforgettable Tour 2008" are Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit, Shilpa Shetty, Ritesh Deshmukh, Vishal and Shekhar.

So if you are loaded with money and you must see Bollywood's 1st Family then here are the cities you can travel to see "MINDBLOWING MAGIC and UNLIMITED MASTI" (BTW that was promo from the show)

• Toronto, Canada - Rogers Center (18th July 2008)
• Los Angeles, California - LA Sports Center (26th July 2008)
• San Francisco, California - Oracle Center (27th July 2008)
• Houston, Texas - Toyota Center (2nd August 2008)
• Atlantic City, New Jersey - Broadwalk Arena (9th August 2008)
• Chicago, Illinois - Sears Center (10th August 2008)
• New York - Nassau Coliseum (15th August 2008)
• Vancouver - General Motors Place (17th August 2008)
• London - O2 Arena (24th August 2008)

15th Annual Fund Raising Dinner on Saturday, March 22nd 2008

The Jain Society of Greater Detroit will hold their 15th Annual Fund Raising Dinner on Saturday, March 22nd 2008 at the Burton Manor in Livonia.

The event will be held from 6:30 pm to 12:00 am. An entertainment group from Chicago will be performing music and the food will be catered by Krishna Catering.

Pl. let me know if you wish to enjoy a fun evening with good food and good entertainment. You may email me at nipa [at] jenesysgroup [dot] com.

Indian Events - March 2008

Michigan Tamil Sangam Fundraising Event!
Michigan Tamil Sangam is hosting a Fundraising Event on March 29th from 6PM - 9 PM at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 165 E. Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI. Enjoy a night of Raas Garba, Bhangra and much more. Contact Nalini Narayanasamy at 248-344-9657 (nalini_narayan [at] yahoo [dot] com) or Niranjan Varadarajan at 248-813-1631 (n4home [at] gmail [dot] com) or Radhika Ganesan at 248-854-7253 (radhikaganesan [at] hotmail [dot] com)

Fusion Festival: "Inspirations from India" Mar 29
The fusion concert, "Inspirations from India", will take place on Saturday, March 29, at 8pm at the Village Theater located on 50400 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI, and will feature renowned sitar artist, composer and teacher, Hasu Patel.
For more details check out Plymouth Symphony Website

Holi Celebrations - 2008

As per the Hindu calendar, Holi falls on the Phalgun Purnima (or Pooranmashi, Full Moon), which will occur on March 22, 2008.

Here in Michigan couple of Indian Associations have planned Holi Event:

Uttar Pradesh Association of Greater Detroit
"Rang Rangila" on Saturday, March 15th at Bharatiya Temple, 6850 Adams Road, Troy, MI 48098. The Event starts at 5.30 PM. For details check out upad website.

Gujarati Samaj of Detroit
"Holi Hai" on Saturday April 5th at Wylie E. Grove High School, 20500 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025. The Event starts at 1 PM. For details check out Gujarati Samaj of Detroit website.

What is Holi? Quote from Indian Express

Originally a festival to celebrate good harvests and fertility of the land, Holi is now a symbolic commemmoration of a legend from Hindu Mythology. The story centres around an arrogant king who resents his son Prahlada worshipping Lord Vishnu. He attempts to kill his son but fails each time. Finally, the king's sister Holika who is said to be immune to burning, sits with the boy in a huge fire. However, the prince Prahlada emerges unscathed, while his aunt burns to death. Holi commemorates this event from mythology, and huge bonfires are burnt on the eve of Holi as its symbolic representation.

This exuberant festival is also associated with the immortal love of Krishna and Radha, and hence, Holi is spread over 16 days in Vrindavan as well as Mathura - the two cities with which Lord Krishna shared a deep affiliation. Apart from the usual fun with coloured powder and water, Holi is marked by vibrant processions which are accompanied by folk songs, dances and a general sense of abandoned vitality.

Today Holi is an excuse for Indians to shed inhibitions and caste differences for a day of spring fever and Big Fun. Teenagers spend the day flirting and misbehaving in the streets, adults extend the hand of peace, and everyone chases everyone else around, throwing brightly colored powder (gulal) and water over each other.

CRY America - Detroit Presents SUR-TAL

CRY America - Detroit brings to you SUR-TAL (A Music and Dance Performance by Young Adults)

This event will be featuring Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Folk Dances, Bhangra, Classical Songs as well as Bollywood song and dance performances.

The event will be held on Saturday March 8th 2008 from 3.00 - 6.30 PM at Lawrence Technological University Auditorium, Science Building, D Parking Lot, 21000 W. Ten Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48075. Donation is $10 per person. All proceeds will go towards supporting CRY America's projects to restore the basic rights of underpriviliged children in India and the United States.

Click here to buy the tickets online or contact Sabina Arora (sabdetroit [at] yahoo [dot] com, 248-835-0324)

Shanti Project to celebrate International Women's Day in Novi, MI

Shanti Project, of the University of Michigan School of Social Work is hosting an event along with the AIWA (Asian Indian Women's Association), MAIFS (Michigan Asian Indian Family Services) to increase women awareness and celebrate International Women's Day.

The Event Brochure states:

Listen to an inspiring speech by Smt. Sharada Kumar, and participate in a discussion on how we, as women, can shape our families and our communities. Let us come together to Shape Our Progress.

The Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, March 8, 2008
• Time: 10:30-1:30 PM
• Location: Novi Community Center, 45175 West 10 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48375
• Free lunch, parking and child care will be provided.

Youth Leadership Development Program for Indian-American youth

Michigan India Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Youth Leadership Development Program for Indian-American Youth. The purpose of this program is to prepare youths to deal with the challenges and opportunities of working in the global economy.

The classes run from February 23rd thru April 26th 2008. It will be held on Saturdays from 1-2.15 pm.

The Program Brochure states

By participating in this program, youths will develop or enhance their skills in:

• Communication
• Public Speaking
• Team Building &
  Problem Resolution
• Decision Making
• Collaborative Thinking
• Leadership

Check out miicc.com for pricing and other details

Valentine's Day Dinner at Local Indian Restaurants

Valentine's Day is around the corner and Local Indian Restaurants are serving up a special Valentine Day Dinner Buffet.

India Spice located at 30701 W 12 Mile Rd,Farmington Hills, MI 48334, has a special Dinner Buffet for February 14th, 2008 from 5.30 pm to 10.30 pm. Cost for Adults is $11.95 and for Kids it is $5.95. Contact India Spice at 248-381-5449. (via)

Bombay Grille located at 29200 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334, also has a special Dinner Buffet for February 14th, 2008 from 6 PM to 9 PM which will be followed by Dance. Cost for couple is $50.00 and for individual it is a nickel cheap at $24.95. Contact Bombay Grille at 248-626-2982. (via)

Free Health Fair at University of Michigan Medical School

University of Michigan Medical School, United Asian American Medical Association and Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian origin bring to you a Free Health Fair.

Date: February 2nd, 2008
Screening: 9AM - 12 Noon
Lunch: 12 Noon - 1 PM
Workshops: 1 PM - 3 PM

Location:
University of Michigan Medical School
Medical Science Building II
1301 Catherine Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0624

For more details on this event please visit United Asian American Medical Association of University of Michigan website

Upcoming Events - January 2008

MIICC
Michgian Indian Chamber of Commerce meeting on Wednesday January 9th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Marx Layne Company located at 31420 Northwestern Hwy, Farmington Hills, MI 48334. Meeting Agenda:
5:30 pm to 6:00 pm - General Networking
6:00 pm to 6:10 pm - MIICC overview and new Alliance Overview - Benefits Review
6:10 pm to 6:30 pm - Lee Anderson, a fitness trainer who will present tips for a healthy lifestyle
6:30 pm to 6:45 pm - Ross Sanders, Executive Director of Bizdom U presenting Bizdom U for entrepreneurs
6:45 pm to 7:05 pm - Round Table Introductions - Ask the folks in the room how they may assist you in your quest for new connections or opportunities
7:05 pm to 7:30 pm - General Networking

The Shanti Project
The Shanti Project of University of Michigan School of Social Work presents Gujarati Family Communications Workshop on Saturday January 26th, 2008 from 1 - 4.30 PM. This event will be held at Costick Community Center – Belfast Room, 28600 Eleven Mile Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48336. Call 1-888-4SHANTI or email shantiproject[at]umich.edu for more details. This from the event flyer:

Have you ever felt as if you are not being understood or
you seem to have the same conversation over and over
again? If so, then this workshop may be right for you.
Learn about effective ways to communicate feelings,
needs, dislikes?

New Year's Eve Celebrations at Detroit Area Indian Restaurants

Some of the Detroit Area Indian Restaurants have planned New Year's Eve Celebrations. Here are some of the restaurants. If you you know of more let us know.

Rangoli Indian Cuisine (Auburn Hills, MI):

Featuring Hors D’oeuvres & Grand Buffet Dinner, Extravagant Dessert Station, Complimentary Beverages* & Midnight Champagne Toast, DJ Dancing, Large Projection Screens, Premium Cash Bar, and a play area for kids. For further details and to make reservations, please call 248.377.3800

House of India: (Farmington Hills, MI)

New Year's Eve Extravaganza at House of India, Farmington Hills

Come enjoy delicious dinner and dancing.
Cash bar with DJ.
Date: 12/31/07
Time: 6 pm to 2 am
Please call 248.553.7391 for reservations today.

Bombay Grille: (Farmington Hills, MI)

Spectacular New Year's Eve Party
Delicious Cuisine
Cash Bar
DJ and Dancing
Dinner starts from 6 PM on December 31st, 2007
Must call for Reservations at 248-626-2982

MIICC Monthly Meeting (December 12th) - Change of Venue

Just been informed by Nipa Shah that there's a change in venue for Michigan India Chamber of Commerce's monthly meeting scheduled for December 12th. Here are the details:

• Date & Time: Wednesday, December 12th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm EST (2nd Wednesday of every month, 1 participant or 20)
• Location: Marx Layne & Company, 31420 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (www.marxlayne.com) Phone: 248.855.6777
• Agenda: Reiki Master Presenting fundamentals of Reiki and general networking
• Cost: No Charge to Members (including youths & non-profits) and $10 for non-members

For more details check out MIICC website.

Shanti Project to screen Bollywood Movie Saathiya

The Shanti Project, of University of Michigan School of Social Work which works to promote healthy family relationships in the Gujarati community will be showing Bollywood Movie Saathiya.

There is no cost to you. It is FREE and will be shown on December 8, 2007 from 2:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. at Costick Community Center – Belfast Room which is located on 28600 W 11 Mile Rd, Farmington Hills , MI 48336 (map).

Quoting an email announcement from Folks at Shanti Project regarding this event

An evening of viewing a film, interesting conversation, light food, and meeting new friends. There will be free parking and chilcare if needed. Learn how we can work together to make the Gujarati community safer and stronger.

For more details
Contact:
The Shanti Project
University of Michigan
1080 S University
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Tel: 1-888-4SHANTI
Email: shantiproject at umich dot edu

Indian Classical Music and Dance event at Ann Arbor, MI

Asha for Education (Ann Arbor Chapter) presents an evening of Indian Classical Music and Dance titled "Rhythms of Hope" on November 3rd, 2007 from 5.00-7.30 pm at Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, 911 North University, Ann Arbor MI, 48109 (directions).

The event will feature one hour of Odissi dance performed by Ms.Sreyashi Dey, followed by one hour of Hindustani music, featuring sitar performed by Dr. Rajan Sachadeva and tabla performed by Mr. Amol Khanapurkhar.

Cost: $12 Students, $25 & $35 General (All proceeds go towards education of underprivileged children in India.) For more info visit the event website.

Global Drum Project Event at Michigan State University

Zakir Hussain along with Mickey Hart, Sikiru Adepoju and Giovanni Hidalgo will be on the campus of Michigan State University on October 20th, 2007.

Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 at 8 PM
Venue: Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for the Performing Arts, MSU Campus
Tickets: $38, $28, $23 for general public, $15 for students
For tickets and more information check out Wharton Center, MSU website.

This from the MSU Event Site:

New music from the group that brought you the Grammy Award winning Planet Drum. Global Drum Project reunites Grateful Dead percussion heavyweight Mickey Hart with his longtime friend and collaborator, tabla master Zakir Hussain, along with talking drum ace Sikiru Adepoju and the formidable conguero Giovanni Hidalgo. Planet Drum was released in 1991 and went on to earn the first-ever Grammy® in the World Music category. “This is a deep drumming groove. We’re taking the archaic rhythm worlds into outer space. Planet Drum explores rhythm and noise; it’s a sound yoga of processed acoustic percussion headed straight for the trance zone that becomes a dance of ancient and modern worlds. Deep drumming is a skeleton key into these realms.” - Mickey Hart

Diwali Celebrations in Michigan - 2007

Indian Organizations throughout the Metro Detroit Area and in Michigan are finalizing plans for Diwali Celebrations. Here are some of them that I know of. (If you know of any more please post it in the comments or email me.)

UPAD (Uttar Pradesh Association of Detroit) hosts a Dinner and Cultural Program on October 27th (starts at 5.30PM) at the Costick Activity Center – (Door A - 28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI (East of Middlebelt) 248-473-1816.

Donation requested as follows: (make cheques payable to UPAD)
Members $16 per Person
Non-Members $ 20 per Person
Seniors (>65) $ 12 per Person
Participants (<18) $10 per Person
Children (<10) $10 per person
Children (<5) Free!!!

For more info visit UPAD website.

Detroit Telugu Association
Saturday, November 03, 2007 5:30PM to 10:30PM at Novi High School, 24062 Taft Road, Novi, MI 48374. Check out there Detroit Telugu website for more details.

Michigan Konkani Association
Diwali Gala is tentatively scheduled for November 17, 2007 at the Southfield Civic Center. Keep checking there website for more details.

Gujarati Samaj of Detroit
Diwali Celebrations is scheduled for Saturday, Oct 28th at Sea Holm High School, Birmingham. Visit there website for more details.

Maharashtra Mandal of Detroit
Maharashtra Mandal is celebrating DIWALI on November 17th. Check out there website for more details.

Women's Day on September 23rd, 2007 at Novi, MI

Asian Indian Women's Association brings to you their 2nd Annual "Women's Day" on September 23rd, 2007 at Rock Financial Show Place, Novi, MI from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM. Check out their website for more details.

Quote from their brochure

A Power Packed Day of FUN, SEMINARS, MARKETING, SEMINARS and NETWORKING

• Indoor Event
• Explore variety of Exhibits in the main hall
• Free Prize Giveaways and Makeup tips
• Free Chair Massages to ease Stress and tension!
• Free Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar and Cholesterol check to stay fit

Note: This is a fun filled event for women only. Children under 16 are discouraged from attending

Indian Beauty - Padmashree Shobana coming to Ann Arbor, MI

Association of India Development brings to you "MAYA" a dance performance by the Indian beauty Padmashree Shobana on October 6th, 2007 from 6-9 PM at 121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor MI, 48109. Contact Deepa Pendse at 517-214-0584 or email at deepa[at]umich[dot]edu.

Ticket Prices: $55,$35,$20 (Children under 10 free). All proceeds will benefit Association of India Development projects.

Note: This event co-sponsored by University of Michigan Center for South Asian Studies

Juggy D comes to Festival of India (2007) - Detroit, MI

Juggy D a British Bhangra Singer from Southall, London, England will be performing live at Festival of India on Saturday, August 25th, 2007 starting at 7.30 PM at Hart Plaza in Detroit, Michigan.

Related: Festival of India website

Here's Juggy D along with Jay Sean (who was here in Detroit last year):

India's Independence Day Celebrations in Michigan

Feel the Pulse of India at India's Independence Day Festival on August 12th at Rock Financial Show Place, Novi, MI. The organizers (India League of America) have planned a grand event which includes - Parade, Live Dances and Music, Vast Indoor Shopping Stalls, Authentic Indian Food. As a bonus the organizers have also planned a Visa Camp, Health Camp and Job Fair. (Visit India League of America's website for more details).

To get you in the mood here's a Bollywood Classic "Mere Desh Ki Dharti" from Upkar.

About 2 weeks later from August 24th-August 26th there is another Independence Day Festival coming up at Hart Plaza, Detroit. For details visit the organizers (The United South Asian Promotions Group) website.

Naya Daur a Bollywood Classic comes to Big Screen in Michigan

Naya Daur a Bollywood classic of 1950's (now in color) starring Dilip Kumar and Vyjayantimala comes to SR Movies, Novi, MI on August 3rd, 2007. Visit MIMANTRA for show times.

Here's Uden Jab Jab Zulphen Teri from Naya Daur:

Health Fair at Bharatiya Temple, Troy, MI

The 6th Annual Health Fair will be held on Sunday August 12th from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Bharatiya Temple located at 6850 N Adams Road, Troy, MI 48098 (directions).

This event Organized by
The Bharatiya Temple,
Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin
and Crittenton Hospital Medical Center

From the Bharatiya Temple website:

Blood screening panel including fasting sugar, cholesterol, hemoglobin, and PSA will be conducted free for everyone (pre registration requested & Fasting for 12 hours is suggested).
Bone density measurement will be available to women, if needed.
Information Booths on Hormone Replacement Therapy, breast cancer, mammogram, prostate, cataract, nutrition, exercise, and life style enhancement.
Cardiologists, Urologists, OB-GYNs, Ophthalmologists, Rheumatologists, Endocrinologists, Internists, Dentists, Pharmacists and other specialists will be on hand for guidance.

Please pre-register before August 6th by providing your name, address and phone number.
All Tests are FREE!
To register contact : Minal Engineer email : minal_e@hotmail.com

Big 3 Cricket Challenge at Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills, MI

The Big 3 Cricket Championship Game will be held on July 29th at Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills, MI from 4pm - 8pm. This year's participating teams are General Motors, Daimler Chrysler, Ford and Altair. For more details visit Michigan Cricket Association website.

Guess what! The special guest for this championship game will be Mushtaq Mohammed, former Captain for Pakistan's cricket team.

You can see the cricket pitch in this Google Maps Satellite picture of Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills, MI.

Sonu Nigam comes to Detroit, MI on August 17th, 2007

UPDATE: Sonu Nigam concert postponed to September 7th, 2007
Sonu Nigam will be live in concert on August 17th, 2007 at the Detroit Opera House (Map). The show starts at 8 PM. This event bought to you by Palace-Entertainment.

For Tickets Call Bittu @ 586- 506- 0043 or Detroit Opera House at 313-237-3425. Tickets are also available at most major Indian Grocery and Appliance stores.

Here's a title song from Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna sung by Sonu Nigam:

Upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan

Anand Bazaar - Gujarati Samaj of Detroit brings to you Anand Bazaar - on July 14th from 10 AM to 8 PM at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126 (Map). Check out Gujarati Samaj Website for more details. The Website states

Come and Enjoy Handicrafts, Gift Items, Jewelery, Clothing, Mehendi/Henna, Music Masti and wide array of delicious array of Indian Food

Raas, Garba and Folk Dance Competion - This again by Gujarati Samaj of Detroit on July 14th at 1 pm at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126. (Map). Check out Gujarati Samaj of Detroit Website for more details. If you want to see the this competition, the cost of tickets are $100, $75, $50, $35 (sold out). So at the minimum a family of 4 has to pay $200.

Detroit Telugu Association hosts Youth Basketball and Tennis Tournaments

Here are couple of upcoming events sponsored by Detroit Telugu Association:

Youth Basketball:
Date: Saturday, June 16, 2007 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Venue: Novi Middle School, 49000 11 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48374.

Team Composition:
3 Players per team (4th player - substitute - is optional)

Tournament Format:
Each team will play a minimum of 5 games (League Stage).
League games will be followed by the knock-out stages, beginning with the quarter finals.
Each game will be till 11 points (1 point baskets).

Food & Drinks:
Pizza, Snacks & Drinks will be provided throughout the tournament.

Awards & Certificates:
Trophies will be awarded to the top three teams.
Certificates will be provided to all participants.

Contact: Vikas Kodali: vikaskodali@gmail.com, Akhil Gutta: brasilsoccer@gmail.com or If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Leela Prasad Pamidimukkala at dtayouth@yahoo.com or (248) 219-2398.


Youth Tennis Tournament
Date: Saturday, June 23, 2007 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Venue: Novi Middle School, 49000 11 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48374

Tournament Format:
Both Singles & Doubles tournaments will be held.

Food & Drinks:
Pizza, Snacks & Drinks will be provided throughout the tournament.

Awards & Certificates:
Trophies will be awarded to the top three winners in both Singles & Doubles.
Certificates will be provided to all participants

Please send your entries to any one of the following E-Mail addresses:
- Nithin Gutta: nithin9003@yahoo.com
- Navya Talluri: navya2009@yahoo.com

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Leela Prasad Pamidimukkala at dtayouth@yahoo.com or (248) 219-2398

Jhoom Barabar Jhoom comes to Michigan

Jhoom Barabar Jhoom (Dance Baby Dance) comes to SR Movies, Novi on June 15th. Check MIMANTRA for showtimes. Starring in lead roles are Abhishek Bachchan, Priety Zinta, Lara Dutta, Bobby Deol. Amitabh Bachchan and Shahrukh Khan make a special appearance.

India's Independence Day Celebrations in Michigan (2007)

India League of America brings to you a fun filled "India Day 2007" at Rock Financial Show Place, Novi, MI on Sunday August 12th, 2007. Check out their website for more details.

The United South Asian Promotions Group brings to you "Festival of India 2007" at Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI from August 24th thru August 26th. Check out Festival of India website and MIMANTRA for more details.

And let's not forget those incredible Indians who fought for our freedom. Here's saluting Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev: (A Classic from Manoj Kumar's Shaheed)

Bhangra, Raas and Garba at Bharatiya Temple, Troy, MI

Bharatiya Temple located in Troy, MI brings to you a night of Bhangra, Raas and Garba on Friday June 1st, 2007 from 8 pm - 12 am. Fore more details check out the temple website.

Any Idea why the event is called "Parents Day 2007"?

Shootout at Lokhandwala coming to SR Movies, Novi, MI

Shootout at Lokhandwala a Bollywood Hindi Movie comes to SR Movies, Novi on May 25th. Check out MIMANTRA for showtimes. Starring in Lead Roles are Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Vivek Oberoi, Abhishek Bachchan, Arbaaz Khan, Tusshar Kapoor, Sunil Shetty.

The film is based on Aftab Ahmad Khan's encounter with five members of Dawood Ibrahim's underworld gang and the true story behind these events

Cheeni Kum - A Sugarless Romance comes to Michigan

Bollywood Hindi Movie Cheeni Kum starring Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu is being released here in Michigan on May 25th at SR Movies, Novi. Check out mimantra for showtimes.

Cheeni Kum is story of a 64 year old Chef - Buddhadev Gupta (Amitabh Bachchan) who is also the owner of a Desi Restaurant in London, UK. Then one day Nina Verma (Tabu) walks into Buddhadev's restaurant. You guessed it!! There is love in the air.

The story line very much reminds me of "As Good As it Gets" which had Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt in lead roles and both of whom went on to win Oscar award for Best Actor and Best Actress in 1997.

ISHA Yoga brings "Inner Engineering Program" to Michigan

Isha Yoga brings "Inner Engineering Program" for folks in Michigan. It will be held from June 6 - 11, 2007 (Wed - Mon) Weekdays (7pm - 10:15pm) Sat/Sun (8am - 7pm). It will be held at St. Clement Banquet Center, Dearborn, MI (near Ford and Evergreen) (map).

Visit Isha Yoga for more details.

The Inner Engineering program will be offered by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, a master of the ancient science of yoga. the program offers a rare opportunity for self-discovery under the guidance of a realized yogi. The program offers interactive discussions, guided meditations and a balanced set of simple but powerful yoga practices.

Here's a video clip of Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev.

Boogie Woogie coming to Detroit?

Sony Entertainment Television of India's Boogie Woogie is coming to Detroit on June 2nd looking for Dance Talent. Registration is being accepted for junior catergory (6 - 13 years) and senior category (14 to 21 years) Visit meraticket.com for more details.

The meraticket site lists the location as Seaholm High School, Detroit. I think it is Seaholm High School in Birmingham, MI. The address is 2436 West Lincoln Road, Birmingham, 48009. (map)

Please contact DREAMZ International the local promoters at 586-764-0938

Dr. Shobha Raju Concert

Detroit Telugu Association brings to you Dr.Shobha Raju Concert on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Walled Lake Central High School, 1600 Oakley Park, Walled Lake, MI 48390 (map). Visit Detroit Telugu Association website for more details.

Click on the image to listen to one Dr. Shobha Raju's songs Om namO naaraayaNaayaa

An Evening dedicated to Talat Mahmood

एक शाम तलत महमूद के नाम. Mark your calendars. Khalid Mahmood son of legendary bollywood singer Talat Mahmood will be performing on Friday May 4th at University of Michigan, Social Sciences Building (Room SSB-1500), 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, MI 48128 (map). The program begins sharp at 7.15.

This event bought to you by Federation of Aligarh Alumni Associations of America. Entire proceeds will support Girls education in India. (more at MIINDIA)

You just might be lucky enough to hear "Jalte Hain Jiske Liye"

Ta Ra Rum Pum comes to Novi, Michigan

Ta Ra Rum Pum a Bollywood Hindi Movie starring Saif Ali Khan and the gorgeous Rani Mukherjee comes to SR Movies, Novi, MI on April 27th. Check out MIMANTRA for showtimes.

Ta Ra Rum Pum is a story of Rajveer Singh (Saif Ali Khan) a race car driver and Radhika (Rani Mukherjee) a music student. The two fall in love and get married and are blessed with 2 children.

Rajveer is soaring new heights as he becomes one of the best race car drivers. Then one day he gets into an accident in the racing circuit and is hospitalized. He recovers months later, but because of the mental scars he is not able to perform like before. After a string of failures, financial woes set in. Rajveer and Radhika are forced to auction off their house and move into a run down neighborhood.

Got to see the movie to find out how Rajveer and Radhika try to make the best out of a bad situation.

Ravi Shankar coming to Detroit, MI

Ravi Shankar the legendary Sitarist will be here in Detroit, MI on Saturday April 21st at 8 pm at:
Max M Fisher Music Center,
3711 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, Michigan 48201
Box Office Phone: (313) 576-5111
Box Office Fax: (313) 576-5109
(Google Maps)
Guess what! if you call the BOX OFFICE and mention MIINDIA you get 30% off the ticket price. (via MIINDIA)

Here's Ravi Shankar in "Concert for Bangladesh (1972)"

Mahindra and Mahindra interviewing for positions in India

Interested in career opportunities in India? Mahindra and Mahindra is interviewing for a variety of positions. They will be interviewing on April 14th from 9 AM to 6 PM at:
39500 Orchard Hill Place, Suite 100, Novi, MI 48375.
Telephone No: 248-347-3780.
(Google Maps of the Interview Location). Visit MIINDIA for more details on type of positions and career opportunities at Mahindra and Mahindra.

Upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan - April, 2007

Following are the upcoming Indian community events scheduled for April 2007 (If you know of any other Indian Community Events, do email me or post a comment)

April 1st, 2007 - Telugu Vocabulary Contest from 12 noon to 6 pm at the Novi Civic Center at 45175 W. 10 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48375. Objective here is to promote Telugu language reading and writing among the second generation while nurturing their competitive spirit and fostering teamwork. For more details visit the Detroit Telugu Association website.

April 1st, 2007 - Gujarati Samaj of Greater Detroit celebrates HOLI on April 1st from 1 pm onwards at Wylie E. Grove High School, 20500 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025. Visit Gujarati Samaj of Greater Detroit website for more details. (via MIMANTRA)

April 14th, 2007 - Michigan Indian American Cultural Association (MIIACA) is having their annual HOLI function (HOLI and VAISAKHI celebration) on Saturday April 14th, 2007 at Costick Center located at 28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI. Visit the MIIACA website for more details.

April 21st, 2007 - Detroit Telugu Association celebrates UGADI Festival from 5.30pm to 10.30pm at Walled Lake Central High School, 1600 Oakley Park, Walled Lake, MI 48390. For more details visit the Detroit Telugu Association website.

April 22nd, 2007 - A Free Community Health Fair hosted by Oakwood Annapolis Hospital, Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (MAPI) and Canton Hindu Temple. It is scheduled for April 22nd from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Canton Hindu Temple located at 44955 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48188. (Telephone: 734-981-8730) (via MUMTAZWORLD)

नमस्ते London - Bollywood Hindi Movie comes to Novi, MI

नमस्ते London - a Bollywood Hindi Movie comes to SR Movies, Novi, MI on March 23rd. For showtimes check MIMANTRA.

Starring in lead roles are Akshay Kumar (as Arjun) and Katrina Kaif (as Jasmeet Singh).

Arjun is a Punjabi dude from Punjab and Jasmeet is a transplanted desi girl in London. Jasmeet loves everything western but her dad (Rishi Kapoor as Manmohan Singh) forces her to marry Arjun the desi dude. (Read more here).

Upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan - March, 2007

Here's a list of upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan for March, 2007

March 10th (5.30pm) - UPAD's Baras Rahe Rang Holi Celebration at Bharatiya Temple, Troy. (via UPAD)

March 10th (4.30 pm) - A2MM Holi and Gudhi Padawa Celebration at Residence of Swatee & Bhushan Kulkarni
1535 Windy Ridge Ct, Saline, MI. Contact 734-429-7270 for more details. (via MIMANTRA)

March 23rd-24th - North American Punjabi Conference at the COBO Arena, Detroit. Check out NAPC website for more details

March 24th (5.00pm) - Bhangra Fusion at the State Theater, Detroit. (via MIMANTRA)

If there are any other Community Events, please do send me a note or post a comment here.