The 2023 CHAKRA Magazine

Dear Portland Community, 

Please find attached the 2023 Chakra Magazine

On this day we proudly honor India's 76th anniversary of Independence and commemorate the birth of the world's largest democracy. We are excited to celebrate India's rich culture and arts with an incredible array of food, arts, entertainment, and more. Join us for wonderful performances of classical, folk, and contemporary dances and music. And there's more than just a feast for the senses--be sure to visit our many vendors to sample the delicious cuisine of tandoori chicken, dosas, mango lassis, and other mouth-watering treats for every palate. We appreciate your support of all our fantastic contributors.

The India Festival is family friendly. Children can visit the CULTURAL and KIDS BOOTH to take part in fun, creative activities. Groups of all ages will enjoy live demonstrations as well as other types of festival experiences throughout the day.  The India Festival is another important opportunity for younger generations to learn about and embrace their Indian heritage. We've found that participating in the festival bolsters leadership skills, which makes a lasting impact in preparing young people for successful, bright futures. We love to see former attendees and past performers lending their support for the ICA. We appreciate and remain grateful for all your continued engagement. 

Of course, none of this would be possible without the ongoing support, commitment, and hard work of numerous individuals and groups. For more than three decades the community of Portland has remained welcoming and engaged with this festival. A special shout out to the parents who have worked hard alongside their children to prepare for this program. Our volunteers are amazing and have dedicated a countless number of hours to make this event a success.  KUDOS TO THEM!!  I cannot thank them enough for their efforts.

I also extend deep gratitude to our Chakra team for doing an exceptional job in compiling this magazine. We are thrilled with their good work. For many years, Chakra has served as an important resource for those who are interested in discovering and learning about the Indian community in Portland. Please get to know our magazine, which includes information on our local businesses as well as wonderful articles written by our vibrant Portland community.

Our sponsors are invaluable partners and we would like to recognize their ongoing efforts. Thank you RACC, PDX A1, Mavensoft, Oregon Marathi Mandal, Portland Gujarati Samaj, Oregon Community Grant, Multnomah county cultural coalition and Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace.  We also extend our sincere thanks to the amazing vendors. Your involvement at the festival as well as generous donations and promotional support in Chakra and elsewhere makes an extraordinary difference in the quality of this event. We are happy to have you!

With your ongoing support, we look forward to hosting the India Festival for many years to come. Interested in getting more involved? We are inviting volunteers to work on organizing the 2024 festival. Please spread the word and stop by our ICA booth to learn more.

Thank you! We look forward to enjoying a fun, safe, and exciting 2023 festival with you all! 

 Jaisen Mody, ICA President