India Day in Acton: Culture, community, commemoration

When the music for “Jana Gana Mana,” India’s national anthem, unexpectedly cut out, the multiple generations onstage just kept on singing. 

The moment epitomized the proud, enduring Indian culture as Acton residents and visitors assembled for the town’s second India Day, celebrating the anniversary of India’s independence from British colonial rule in 1947. 

“We’re here to gather in cultural pride,” said Concordian Rose Cratsley, organizer of the August 16 event, held at First Parish. 

The day featured traditional dances and music, homemade chai, and reflections about the nation’s rich history. 

Tradition and modernity

Rising senior Maya Soto and her brother Shaan, a rising freshman, both members of Acton-Carlisle High School’s newly founded CCHS South Asian Student Society (SASS), emceed the event. It included artistic performances bridging tradition and modernity. 

“With India Day, we’re honoring both our elders and the present,” Cratsley said.

Laiya Pavlov, a rising senior at CCHS, performed an Indian dance — a traditional ode to peace — a day after returning from a year abroad in Malaysia.

Concordians Neha Joshil, a rising freshman at Boston University, and Prisha Rachakatla, a rising sophomore at UMass Amherst, performed Indian fusion dances, adding a modern influence.

Some attendees traveled from India to join their families in the celebration, creating a joyful multigenerational atmosphere. 

“I’m so glad to be part of the Indian community here and feel included and valued,” said Divya Gupta, who has lived in Acton for 25 years.

Drawing parallels

Speakers highlighted the connection between Indian democracy and Acton’s own history.

“If there’s one thing we can agree on, it’s kicking the British out,” quipped Ravi Simon, aide to state Rep. Carmen Gentile.  

“The South Asian community here is still so new,” he said, noting that some attendees were among the first Indian Americans to move to Acton.

Yet the Indian community is an essential part of the town, whether as small-business owners, community members, or elected officials, said newly elected School Committee member Sandeep Pisharody. 

Three generations

It was Sam Talya’s first time at the event, having seen a post about it online after moving to Acton from Pennsylvania almost a year ago. He brought his 9-year-old daughter, Dhyuti, and his mother, who was visiting from India. 

“It’s a good place for networking and remembrance,” Talya said. “It’s especially inspiring for my little one.” Dhyuti was particularly excited to make new friends with other kids in attendance.

Talya was looking forward to future annual India Day celebrations and connecting with the Indian American community of Acton.

“Last year’s event felt like opening a new door,” said Gupta. She said that the second time around, the celebration had evolved and felt more established. 

Cratsley said the town’s India Day celebration “makes Acton feel like home.”