Friday, August 23, 2024 On Saturday, August 17, the Minnesota State Capitol Grounds buzzed with vibrant energy as over 25,000 people gathered for IndiaFest 2024. This annual festival, organized by the India Association of Minnesota (IAM), offered attendees a unique opportunity to celebrate India’s Independence Day while immersing themselves in the rich and diverse culture of Asian Indians. IndiaFest, now in its 41st year, serves as a bridge between communities, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to connect with Indian heritage and culture.
“Whether reconnecting with their own heritage or experiencing Indian culture for the first time, our goal is to create an authentic experience of India right here in Minnesota,” said Meena Bharti, President of the India Association of Minnesota. The Asian Indian community in Minnesota is one of the state’s largest and fastest-growing groups, according to the 2020 U.S.
Census. IndiaFest has grown to become the second-largest Asian Indian festival in the Midwest, making it a key cultural event in the region. “We believe it’s essential to share our culture and celebrate it openly with our Minnesota community,” Bharti added.
“Providing an opportunity for people outside of the Asian Indian community to explore and experience our culture in true Indian fashion is a vital part of our mission.” “Seeing our communities come together to celebrate our heritage is a privilege we deeply cherish,” Bharti remarked. “Our .