INDUS Annual Events 2019

Holi Celebrations 2019 - 21st April, 2019 at Willamette Art Center, Oregon State Fair Grounds

Holi is one of the major festivals celebrated in India and Nepal, in the beginning of spring, primarily with colors. The festival has many purposes. First and foremost, it celebrates the beginning of the new season, spring. Originally, it was a festival that commemorated good harvests and the fertile land. Although it is the least religious holiday, it is probably one of the most exhilarating ones in existence. During this event, participants hold a bonfire, throw colored powder at each other, and celebrate wildly. (Source: Wikipedia)

Independence Day Picnic 2019 - at Bush Park

India became a free country on 15th August 1947. The day celebrates Indian Independence from the British rule. INDUS celebrates the occasion with a picnic at one of the local parks in the city with friends and families. Independence Day picnic is a also a great occasion to discuss our biggest event - Diwali as well as to recognize the major events in the life of the community members.

World Beat Festival - 28th - 30TH June, 2019 at Riverfront Park, Salem

The World Beat Festival is conducted by the Salem Multicultural Institute -

http://www.worldbeatfestival.org. INDUS hosts a booth at World Beat event every year. This year's theme is "Bollywood Bonanza". We will have lots of information about Bollywood movies, Henna demonstration, Saree wrapping, beautiful Bollywood dances and also some cool interactive Bollywood dance moves.

Diwali Celebrations 2019 on 9th Nov 2019, at Blanchet Catholic School, 4373 Market St NE, Salem, Oregon 97301

Diwali or Deepavali is popularly known as the festival of lights. Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil. These lamps are kept on during the night and one's house is cleaned, both done in order to make the goddess Lakshmi (the Hindu mythological Goddess of wealth) feel welcome. Firecrackers are burst because it is believed that it drives away evil spirits. During Diwali, all the celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks with family members and friends. (Source: Wikipedia)