“To know your future, you must know your past.” – George Santayana
In the heart of Boston, far from the bustling streets of India, lives a story of balance—of families who became American citizens, yet never let go of the culture that shaped them. They work in offices and hospitals, teach in schools, and serve in boardrooms, but on weekends, they take their children to temples and cultural centers so they know where their roots lie. And when the day winds down, they gather with friends—singing Bollywood songs, sharing laughter, and passing on the rhythms of India to the next generation.
This is the living heartbeat of the India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB). Founded in 1962, IAGB began with a handful of families who wanted to celebrate Indian festivals together. Over the years, it has blossomed into one of Boston’s largest cultural platforms, with India Day on Boston Common becoming a signature celebration, drawing thousands of people from all communities.
Now, IAGB turns the page to a new chapter, and at the heart of this story stands Nilesh Agrawal. Known for his ever-positive smile and gentle yet powerful voice, Nilesh has been more than just a community leader—he has been a friend to countless people and a consistent supporter of Jay-Ho! and the Jay-Ho! Show. Without judgment, always encouraging, Nilesh has been there in moments big and small. And when he speaks, people not only listen—they believe. His ability to bring people together is not just
Nilesh’s vision as President is as clear as it is inspiring: empowering youth, building inclusive spaces, forming strong partnerships with schools and civic institutions, and using digital storytelling to preserve the narratives of our community. His professional expertise as an IT Program & Delivery Manager only adds to his ability to plan, execute, and unite people around a common purpose.
But the beauty of IAGB has always been its collective spirit. Standing strong with Nilesh is a team of passionate leaders: Deepak Garg, the new Vice President, whose civic and financial acumen strengthens every initiative; Ashalata Thotangare, stepping in as Secretary, carefully recording and preserving the milestones of this journey; and Directors Shashwati Das, Prashant Kulkarni, Arpita Das Pathak, Vijendra Bhargava, Jharna Madan, and Manishabrata Bhowmick, each bringing their own unique voice and commitment to service. Together, they represent the rich unity-in-diversity that defines the Indian-American community of New England.
As she passed the baton, outgoing President Tanu Phoenix said it best:
“Leadership is not in titles, but in teamwork, resilience, and service. I am proud to see Nilesh step into this role, knowing IAGB will soar even higher under his guidance.”
The story of IAGB is really the story of every Indian American family here—balancing aspirations in America while honoring traditions from India, striving to give their children the best of both worlds, and building bridges that enrich everyone around them.
With Nilesh Agrawal and his team at the helm, the next chapter is set to be written with integrity, inclusivity, and inspiration.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Jay-Ho!
