India’s national bird, the gorgeous and majestic peacock, is a symbol of beauty, joy, grace, and love. Indian tradition is full of references to this glamorous bird and the peacock is often featured in ancient stories, songs, poems, and art.
When Thunder Bay’s India Canada Association presents its annual India Night on May 30, the peacock will provide the inspiration for the decor. “The event will have a traditional Indian ambiance,” says Roopa Rakshit, the president of the India Canada Association. The evening will feature a dinner catered by Winnipeg’s most popular east Indian restaurant, Clay Oven, Bollywood and folk music and dancing, a fashion show with traditional clothing, door prizes, and more. Having hosted the first such event back in 1974, the India Canada Association knows how to entertain and inspire.
“The dinner menu includes favourites, such as butter chicken, lamb tikka masala, palak paneer, vegetable pakoras, samosas, naan, and desserts—it’s a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes,” says Rakshit. She says they selected Clay Oven because their quality of food is excellent—flavourful and authentic. The evening will also feature a variety of entertainment showcasing local talent. “It’s an evening that celebrates and shares Indian culture,” says Rakshit, adding that the event is also the association’s main fundraiser. “Each year we donate a portion of the proceeds to a local charity, often one focused on health or youth,” she says.
The India Canada Association is a secular, non-political, not-for-profit, volunteer-driven group that brings together the Indian community to showcase its vibrancy and traditions through music, dance, cuisine, and art. The association’s activities include cultural programs, dance and language classes, film screenings, and a variety of social and charitable fundraising activities. Rakshit says that India Night is their marquee event and encourages anyone with an interest in Indian culture or love of Indian food to attend. The event is welcoming to all, and just like the peacock, will be filled with beauty and joy.
India Night 2015
Saturday, May 30
DaVinci Center
Tickets: $50 for ages 12 and over; $25 for ages 5-12
Proudly sponsored by The Walleye
India Canada Association
