New England’s Indian American community organization highlights a year of cultural celebrations, historic recognition, youth and sports programming, community partnerships and service initiatives.

BELMONT, MA — September 12, 2026 — The India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) reviewed a year of community engagement, cultural programming and new initiatives during its 2026 Annual General Body Meeting, held Saturday, September 12, at the Belmont Public Library.

During the meeting, IAGB President Nilesh Agrawal presented a year-in-review covering activities from October 2025 through September 2026.

According to IAGB, the past year included a historic Republic Day proclamation from Massachusetts Governor Maura T. Healey, large-scale Republic Day and India Day celebrations, new sports and youth programs, expanded partnerships and continued community service across New England.

Founded in 1962, IAGB describes itself as New England’s oldest and largest Indian American organization. Its programming focuses on cultural heritage, community connection, inclusion and opportunities for people of different generations to participate.

A Year of Recognition for IAGB

One of the major highlights reported during the annual meeting was IAGB’s receipt of a Republic Day proclamation from Governor Maura T. Healey.

According to IAGB, this was the first Republic Day proclamation the organization had received from the Governor in its history, recognizing January 26, 2026, as Republic Day in Massachusetts.

The organization also received its annual India Day Proclamation, continuing the Commonwealth’s recognition of India Day celebrations.

Additional recognition during the year included a State Senate Citation from Senator Jamie Eldridge, honoring IAGB and the contributions of the Indian American community to Greater Boston.

IAGB also received the Community Excellence Award from the India International Film Festival of Boston.

The organization reported receiving two grants during the year, including its first-ever AAPI Commission Small Grant Award, reflecting its expanding community engagement across Massachusetts.

Republic Day 2026 Brings “India in Harmony” to Burlington

IAGB’s 2026 Republic Day celebration was held on January 24 at Burlington High School under the theme:

“India in Harmony: The Five Elements”

According to IAGB, the celebration welcomed more than 2,500 attendees and featured a broad range of cultural and community activities.

The event included:

• More than 150 competitors across eight categories
• More than 250 performers
• More than 35 partner organizations
• More than 30 vendor booths

Distinguished guests included Dr. Purnanand Sarma, Shruthi Purushotam and Dr. Manju Sheth.

The organization also presented its Community Champion Award to Girish Mehta.

The celebration provided an opportunity for families and community members to experience Indian culture, creativity and traditions while coming together to mark Republic Day.

India Day 2026 Celebrates “Colors of India”

IAGB’s second major annual celebration, India Day 2026, took place on August 15 at NARA Park Amphitheater in Acton.

The event was organized around the theme:

“Colors of India: Stories That Inspire”

IAGB reported that more than 4,000 people attended the celebration.

The program featured:

• More than 200 performers
• More than 40 partner organizations
• More than 35 vendor booths
• A flash mob led by Swasti Bhargava
• A DJ finale by Xtreme Productions
• Kahoot trivia
• Interactive games
• Raffle drawings

Distinguished guests included Shri Raghuram Sastry, Consul General of India in Boston, and Anu Chitrapu, Senior Vice-President and Executive at Bank of America.

The large turnout highlighted the continued interest in Indian cultural celebrations across Greater Boston and the wider New England community.

IAGB Launches New Sports and Youth Initiatives

The 2025–26 year also saw the launch of two first-time initiatives.

IAGB introduced Women’s and Men’s Tennis Ball Cricket Tournaments, giving community members another opportunity to connect through sports and friendly competition.

The reported tournament champions were:

Women’s Champion: Warrior 1
Men’s Champion: Desi Boys

IAGB also introduced a hands-on 3D Printing Workshop for Youth in collaboration with IIT AGNE.

The workshop added a STEM-focused element to IAGB’s programming and created an opportunity for young participants to explore 3D printing through practical, hands-on learning.

Expanding Programs for Seniors and the Community

Alongside its new initiatives, IAGB continued several of its established community programs.

The organization’s Discover India Series continued to provide cultural education for seniors.

IAGB also organized its Senior Expo & Cultural Exchange, creating opportunities for connection and engagement among community members.

Another continuing initiative was the IAGB 5K Walk/Run, which supported Ekal Vidyalaya and Vision-Aid.

Together, these programs reflect IAGB’s focus on creating opportunities for cultural learning, community participation, wellness and service.

New Partnerships Strengthen Community Connections

During the year, IAGB established four first-time partnerships with organizations and community initiatives.

These included:

• 23rd India Conference at Harvard
• AAPI Night at Gillette Stadium
• GBH AANHPI Heritage Celebration
• International Day of Yoga, hosted by the Consulate General of India, Boston

These partnerships expanded IAGB’s engagement beyond its own programs and connected the organization with educational, cultural and community initiatives throughout the region.

Community Service Remains an Important Focus

Giving back remained an important part of IAGB’s activities during the year.

Through its Quarterly Giving Days, IAGB reported donating more than 3,000 pounds of food to the Burlington Food Pantry.

The organization also donated more than 200 bags of clothing benefiting Vision-Aid Boston.

In addition to its own programs, IAGB representatives participated in more than 20 community events across New England.

The organization also hosted Flag Raising Ceremonies in:

• Acton
• Andover
• Burlington
• Salem
• Sharon
• Westford

The ceremonies marked India’s 80th Independence Day and provided opportunities for local communities to recognize India’s heritage and the contributions of Indian Americans.

Volunteers and Sponsors Help Power IAGB Programs

The year’s activities were supported by a network of community volunteers, sponsors and media partners.

IAGB thanked its seven corporate sponsors and eight media partners for their support.

More than 100 volunteers contributed to IAGB programming during the year.

Their involvement reflects the community-based nature of IAGB’s work and the role volunteers play in organizing cultural celebrations, educational programs, sports activities and service initiatives.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on the year, IAGB President Nilesh Agrawal thanked the community for its continued support.

“Thank you for your trust and support. It has been an honor to lead our community through a year of growth, recognition, and meaningful connection and I look forward to building an even stronger future together.”

The organization’s year-in-review highlights a broad range of activities, from cultural celebrations and youth programming to sports, partnerships and community service.

As IAGB looks ahead, the organization plans to build on these efforts while continuing to create opportunities for the Indian American community and the wider Greater Boston region to connect, participate and celebrate together.

About the India Association of Greater Boston

The India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Founded in 1962, IAGB is dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, fostering inclusion and building bridges across generations and communities.

The organization conducts cultural, educational, youth, senior, sports and community-service initiatives throughout the Greater Boston and New England region.

Website: IAGB – India Association of Greater Boston

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