IAM - Folklorama Magazine 2008 - Indian Association of Manitoba

India Pavilion: Gearing Towards Folklorama
Submitted by Anupam Sharma.
Folklorama –the world’s largest and longest running celebration of culture and diversity- will
be taking place over two weeks from August 3-16, 2008. This year the India Pavilion will be
located at a new address, Indo-Canadian Arts and Culture Centre, 479 St. Mary’s Road.
The new venue provides for much more space and ample parking. The India Pavilion will be
open from 10 th to the 16 th August 2008 during the second week of the event.
Participation in Folklorama from members of the 44 communities of Winnipeg is mainly on a
voluntary basis and all with a common goal of showcasing the rich culture and tradition of their
respective communities or countries with commitment, dedication and passion. In so doing,
they bring to forefront the various streams of culture, tradition and outlooks that inform the
rich culture and diversity of our city Winnipeg and, the province Manitoba. Members of India
Association of Manitoba and the larger Indo-Canadian community also share this outlook.
Success or failure of any initiative or project, regardless of its scope and size, is highly dependent
on commitment and dedication of people. Essential also is the ability to work together as a
team because the sum of the whole is larger than its parts. In other words, if there is a lack
of cohesiveness and understanding, good intentions count for not much. For projects such as
Folklorama and the convening of the respective country pavilions, being a team player and
working together is essential. As first-time board member of this association and, presently
involved in the activities of the India Pavilion, my observation is that my colleagues share these
outlooks.
Over the next three weeks, the India Pavilion and all its offerings will be brought to attention of
our readers. The present article introduces Chairs of the various committees and responsibilities
for their particular areas. The two articles to follow will focus on food and beverages and, culture
and entertainment respectively. After all, good food and entertainment is integral to enjoyment
and having good time. Listed below are Chairs of the various committees and what each hopes
their committee will contribute to a successful outcome.
Leadership and Coordination
Adarsh Bahri is President of the Association and he has assumed the additional responsibility
of securing sponsorships from businesses and individuals within and outside the community. He
has done much work for the association and community over the past 13 years. Dost Mughal
is Vice President and, Pavilion Coordinator for this year. As owner and operator of General
Tours and Travel, he has a very good pulse on the community and, also a good eye for vision
and detail. Manish Pandey who otherwise is Professor of Economics at University of Winnipeg
serving as Associate Pavilion Coordinator provides the necessary assistance and support. He is
also Adult Ambassador.