Diversity is a central theme at India Festival, from the assorted cultural experiences it yields to the variety of visitors it attracts each year.
Hosted by the Federation of Indian Associations-Ohio (FIA-Ohio), the event is touted as one of central Ohio's largest single-day celebrations of Indian culture, drawing thousands of locals as well as attendees from surrounding states.
The festival is a vital part of FIA-Ohio's mission to increase awareness and appreciation of Indian culture, presented in a fun, vibrant and family-oriented atmosphere.
India Festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Aug. 22 in the Celeste Center at the Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave.
Tickets cost $10 for ages 6 and older at fia-ohio.org. Children 5 and younger
will be admitted for free.
Fill your belly with a smorgasbord of authentic cuisine from across India, then enjoy live entertainment throughout the day including music, classical dance, a local talent competition and Bollywood dance-offs.
Exhibits will be on display highlighting India's heritage and traditions, plus there will be an area with educational and travel information.
More than 100 vendor booths will offer items including jewelry, clothing, henna, handicrafts, artifacts, books, music, and DVDs, as well as services such as horoscopes and astrology. State and federal agencies, travel agencies and area businesses also will be represented.
Additionally, the festival will host a health fair where attendees can have various health tests performed by physicians and other medical professionals.
Contact features and entertainment reporter Belinda M. Paschal at bpaschal@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: India Festival to bring food, dance and culture to Columbus
