“India — Freedom to Prosperity” is the theme of the 11th Annual Festival of India to be held on Saturday, Aug. 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Gwinnett Civic Center located at 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.

The India America Cultural Association is hosting the annual event, which was started in 1997 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of India’s independence. The association is joined by some 35 Indian organizations in Georgia to participate in the event.

This year’s theme will focus on India’s growth as an economic power and the Atlanta and Georgia Indian communities’ contribution to the United States’ and Georgia’s economies.

Jagdesh N. Sheth, Charles H. Kellstadt professor at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, is a scheduled speaker. He will be joined by other civic and political leaders who will discuss the U.S. government’s decision to change the classification from “underdeveloped” to a “transforming” economy.

These discussions are to highlight the progress India has made since gaining independence from the British 60 years ago, according to Chand Akkineni, one of the event’s organizers.

The program for this year’s event also includes a free health fair, seminars on yoga, investment, career counseling and stopping violence, cultural programs depicting various regions of India, an art and quiz competition for the youth, games for children and examples of India’s culinary arts.

The entry fee for the event is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12, while children under 6 and IACA members can enter free of charge.

Story Contacts, Links and Related Stories
Gwinnett Civic Center

The India America Cultural Association

Chand Akkineni (404) 915-0497