As winter settles over Greater Boston, the India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) is preparing to bring warmth, color, and a deep sense of togetherness to the community with its much-anticipated Republic Day Mela 2026—a celebration that has become a cherished tradition for families across the region.
The mela will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Burlington High School in Burlington, Massachusetts, transforming the venue into a vibrant cultural hub for the day. From early afternoon until evening, community members of all ages will gather to celebrate India’s Republic Day through art, performance, learning, and friendly competition.
Adding special significance to this year’s celebration, IAGB has received a formal Proclamation from the Governor’s Office of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, officially recognizing January 26, 2026, as Republic Day of India. The proclamation honors the contributions of the Indian-American community and highlights the enduring friendship between India and the United States, reinforcing the broader cultural and civic importance of the occasion.
The theme for this year, “India in Harmony – The Five Elements,” sets a thoughtful and creative tone for the celebration. Inspired by the five natural elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—the cultural showcase will unfold through classical, folk, and contemporary dance performances. Each presentation reflects India’s rich diversity while emphasizing harmony as a unifying force across traditions, regions, and generations.
Beyond the stage, the mela invites participation from all age groups through a wide range of competitions that blend creativity, intellect, and fun. Activities include art, rangoli, desi fusion, chess, carrom, antakshari, math quiz, and a Shark Tank-style challenge, offering something for students, families, and adults alike. With limited slots available, early registration is encouraged.
The steady leadership and community-first vision of IAGB President Nilesh Agrawal and Vice President Deepak Gargcontinue to play a key role in shaping the organization’s initiatives. Their consistent support for cultural expression, inclusivity, and community engagement has helped make the Republic Day Mela a celebration that truly belongs to everyone.
Alongside them, Arpita Das Pathak plays a vital role in shaping the cultural and operational backbone of the event, ensuring that every detail comes together seamlessly to create a welcoming and well-organized experience for families and participants. She also brings the “Five Elements” theme to life by thoughtfully shaping the cultural narrative of the celebration—translating earth, water, fire, air, and space into performances that reflect harmony, balance, and cultural unity.
The Republic Day Mela is envisioned as more than a single-day event—it is a shared experience where families reconnect, young talent finds a platform, and cultural pride is celebrated collectively. Whether attending as a spectator, performing on stage, or participating in a competition, every presence adds to the spirit of the day.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
- Time: 12:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Venue: Burlington High School, Burlington, MA
- Entry Submission Deadline: December 22, 2025
- Registration: Via QR code or at www.iagb.org
For information on sponsorships, vendor opportunities, or registrations, visit www.iagb.org or contact iagb@iagb.org.
As Greater Boston looks ahead to January, the IAGB Republic Day Mela 2026 stands as a reminder that culture is not just performed—it is shared, lived, and passed on. Rooted in tradition yet open to new voices, the celebration brings together art, ideas, and community under one roof, honoring India’s democratic spirit while strengthening the enduring bond between India and the United States. Jay-Ho! wishes the India Association of Greater Boston continued success as it brings the community together once again through culture, creativity, and unity.
