Unites Atlanta’s Indian Community Through Culture, Health, and Leadership
The Indian Friends of Atlanta (IFA) marked a significant milestone this year with the 10th edition of its annual Women’s Fest, bringing together over 600 attendees at the Forsyth Conference Center. The event focused on community, health,
culture, and connection, everything IFA has been building toward since its founding in 2014.
Atlanta is home to a wide range of Indian organizations. Each one serves its purpose-cultural, linguistic, professional, but they often work in isolation. IFA recognised that early on. Over the last decade, it’s stepped into a unique space,
bridging gaps between groups, offering services where needed, and creating shared platforms. This year’s Women’s Fest reflected that vision in full.
The 2025 theme, Cancer Awareness in Women, addressed a pressing and often under-discussed issue. A panel of respected doctors-Dr. Asha Parikh, Dr. Paulomi Shroff, Dr. Shyla Reddy, and Dr. Priya Vishnubhotla, led a practical and honest
discussion about preventive care, early detection, and the everyday realities of women’s health. Moderators Manisha Mehta and Lakshmi (Lucky) kept the conversation grounded, drawing attention to the importance of regular screenings and
informed choices. Keynote speaker Mrs. Kanchana Raman, founder of Avion Networks and Avacend, followed with a talk that resonated deeply. Her focus on financial independence and leadership opportunity gave a clear, actionable message,
encouraging women to take charge of their lives across personal and professional domains.
The event also honored Mr. Nate Nateson for his work with the Swacch Devalaya initiative, which combines community service with cultural preservation through clean and accessible temple spaces. Throughout the day, performances by artists
and schools reflected the creative strength of the community. Acts included Odissi Classical, Balli Dance Studio, Sagnika, Shiv Institute, Kalaivani Dance Academy, Rajni Dance School, Sirisha Sripada, Priyanka, Sneha Thatte, and Anju
Sreeram. The mix of classical and contemporary styles kept the crowd engaged, and the energy remained high well into the evening.
There was also a fashion show by Oitijhyo, live music, vendor booths, and raffle prizes, including a diamond ring from Moh Jewelers. With more than 16 local vendors, attendees had the chance to support small businesses while enjoying a
variety of experiences in one place. Catering partners Biryani Pot, Suprabhat, Patel Brothers, and Suvidha delivered on flavour, offering a familiar and festive menu. The ambiance came together with decor by Sruthi Chittoori, and the event
was wellcovered by Anjali (TV Asia) and photographer/videographer Nehal. Event coordination was led by Lakshmi Thesam, with support from the IFA executive committee: Sreekanth Uppala, Sunil Savili, Giridhar Kotagiri, Sandeep Reddy Gundla,
Niranjan Podduturi, Rakesh Khanna, Hetal Mehta, Sagar Pabley, Chintan, Priyanka Bhor, Dharmendrasinh Mahida, Raghuveer Gadipalli, Sanjeev Akula, Kishan Tallapally, Abay Radhakrishnan, and Jamaludeen Masthankhan.Bhrushira and Aishwarya
hosted the event, bringing energy and clarity throughout the program. DJ Raj handled the sound, keeping the tempo just right between sessions and performances.
At its core, IFA’s work is about building a stronger, more connected community. Atlanta’s Indian Americans are already excelling across industries, technology, healthcare, education, small and large businesses, and now public service. The
belief that shared space, shared goals, and shared identity matter.
As the second generation grows up rooted in both Indian heritage and American life, events like these are laying down a lasting foundation. IFA’s approach combines service and celebration, tradition and modernity.
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