Rajasthani Culture Shines At 18th Annual Gangaur Festival In Pennsylvania

India-West News Desk

PHILADELPHIA, PA -The 18th Annual Bhartiya Temple Gangaur celebration, organized in partnership with the Philadelphia Rajasthani Mandal (PARAM), brought Rajasthan’s rich cultural traditions to the Montgomery Township. The event, held at the Bharatiya Temple and Cultural Center, gathered community members and dignitaries from across the U.S. and beyond.

Prominent figures attended, emphasizing the role of cultural heritage in strengthening community ties. Dr. Francis Jayraj introduced key officials, including Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija, Montgomery Township Supervisor Tanya Bamford, and Montgomery Township Board of Supervisors member Beth Staab. The event also welcomed distinguished guests such as Prem Bhandari, Founder of the Global Alliance of Rajasthani Community (GARC) and Chairperson of Jaipur Foot USA, alongside RANA President Ravi Sharma and GARC Co-founder Vishal Mehta.

The celebration featured the sacred Gaur-Isar Puja, symbolizing marital harmony, followed by traditional performances. Highlights included a Kalbelia dance by Bindu Raman, a Rajasthani folk song by Manisha Singhal with dhol accompaniment by Dhriti Kurhekar, and a spirited Kachhi Ghodi dance by Ajay Khandelwal.

A notable segment saw young advocates Diya Mundhra, Svar Kanungo, and Ansh Amit Vyas presenting posters on Rajasthan’s heritage while calling for the Rajasthani language’s inclusion in India’s Constitution.

The event, led by Nand Todi and Dr. Ravi Murarka, was supported by volunteers, including youth from Sewa International.

With strong attendance, the festival reaffirmed its status as a key cultural event, preserving Rajasthani traditions in the U.S.