IALA Hosts Vibrant India Republic Day Evening

India-West News Desk

BURBANK, CA – The India Association of Los Angeles (IALA) celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day with a gala at Arbat Banquet Hall, here. The evening paid tribute to the Constitution of India and the nation’s enduring journey of unity, resilience, and hope. Blending cultural pride with joyous festivities, the program, attended by more than 500 people, embraced modern India through music, dance, and a vibrant community spirit.

The January 31 gala also featured speeches and a live band. The Consul General of India in Los Angeles, Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, attended as the chief guest. Other guests included Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman, Los Angeles city Councilmembers John Lee and Nithya Raman, District 3 LAUSD Director Scott Schmerelson, Bakersfield Deputy Mayor Manpreet Kaur, and additional representatives from local and regional offices. 

The formal program began with the national anthems of the US and India. Consul Srinivasa underscored the consulate’s mission to expand trade, investment, and cultural ties while encouraging attendees to reflect on India’s extraordinary progress.

Rep. Sherman, in his address, reflected on his long association with IALA and reaffirmed his support for the Indian American community. Nithya Raman spoke about the strength of community and shared her personal experiences as an Indian American.

IALA President Falguniba Zala and IALA Chairman Pramesh Shah introduced the organization’s officials and remarked on the work undertaken by it.

IALA honored outstanding community leaders with Awards of Excellence, recognizing Ravi Marwah, Dr. Abhijeet Singh, Dev Barad, Jigar Barot, and Aanand Desai for their philanthropy, service, and unwavering commitment to uplifting the community.

 Audiences were then treated to a rich lineup of performances. The Sonali Vasa Group presented a graceful fusion of classical Indian styles—Kathak, Odissi, and Mohiniyattam—ushering in the spirit of spring. Students from the Kathak Kala Academy offered a patriotic Kathak piece, while the Rhythm School of Dance showcased contemporary Bollywood and Indian folk routines. Bollywood Beats Dance Studio energized the crowd with dynamic performances.

A curated fashion show, coordinated by Shagun Gupta, added a modern collection infused with an Indian aesthetic.