Pashchimi is a non-profit organization (a 501 (3) (C) public charity incorporation) based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded in 2004 and run by a dedicated group of business executives and professionals living and working in the Bay Area, Pashchimi seeks to support the ethnic diversity and culture in the US as well as provide economic support for the charitable institutes that work for the uplift of meritorious students from low-income families in India.
Raise funds to provide urgent economic assistance to families during sudden medical emergencies
Promote Indian culture and heritage in the West
Raise funds to provide educational support for meritorious children from low-income families in India
Encourage and facilitate dissemination of our heritage to second and third generation Indian children residing in the US
Foster socio-cultural and ethnic harmony among the communities
Pashchimi's flagship event and one of the largest of its kind in the Bay Area is the Durga Puja and Sharod Mela. Since its humble beginning in 2004, this event has grown in size and popularity. Last year, it attracted over 15,000 visitors over five days. The popularity of the event has spread not only within the Bay Area, but also to other parts of US and even to the neighboring countries. (We are often thrilled to hear stories of visitors to the Bay Area residents planning their trip around the dates of our event!)
While multiple events are organized on the same theme, this Pashchimi event is one of its kinds in its approach. Honesty to tradition and sheer grandeur are its main strengths. Usually spread over five consecutive days, the main attractions of the event are its colorful fair, diverse cultural programs,authentic and traditional Indian Puja - all organized within the same facility. It is an eagerly awaited festival for all local Indians and amust see for all visitors who happen to be in the Bay Area during that period. Internationally acclaimed must see for all visitors who happen to be in the Bay Area during that period.
Over 10,000 visitors Five-day event, open to public, no entry fee Cultural shows, musical performances Colorful fair, food stalls free lunch served to all
join usInternationally acclaimed "artistes from India" regularly grace the cultural stage. Pashchimi tradition has been to promote local talent and give them an opportunity to perform alongside these famous performers. It has become an honor for the local talent to perform on the stage. The event has been covered by the TV and News media like India Post, Siliconeer, The Economic Times, TV Asia, etc.
A modest initiative started by a small bunch of people with their own contribution has grown to a full-fledged movement today. In order for
Pashchimi to succeed in its mission, it needs continuous financial support. Pashchimi has been fortunate to receive funding from recognized brands and local businesses that want to reach out to the Indian community and from generous donations from our well-wishers. Many of the corporate sponsors have been regular contributors to the Pashchimi cause.
Needless to mention, the exposure to and face-time with potentially 10000+ visitors is certainly not unattractive! You can also download Pashchimi Profile from here
Online Puja in 2020 during COVID-19. Looking forward to getting back to traditional in-person Puja next year.
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