About Us
The Indian Cultural Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, formed by Sanjay & Niti Srivastava to preserve the rich, cultural heritage of India in the United States. Our mission is to promote social & cultural ties between the Indian-American & the community at large, advance greater cultural understanding & social equity, decrease food insecurity, and reduce food waste.
We bring together the diverse Indian American communities in Howard County through programs, events, resources, and community outreach. Join us as we celebrate the vibrant traditions and customs of India.
ICA has over 11,000 followers on Facebook and together with their families, ICA forms the largest cultural organization in the region. ICA events have been attended by over 60,000 people. Festivals of the sort Howard County have not seen before - Howard County Fairgrounds called it the "Largest single day attendance." Our festivals promote a sense of community, sharing, diversity and help to break down barriers between people of all different backgrounds, race, religion, color, and other. Indian culture promotes the oneness of humanity, the oneness of all creation.
Indian Americans are the largest immigrant community in Howard County. We are diverse, multi-ethnic with vibrant Indian communities. Both Howard County and Maryland are vibrant representations of the numerous cultures and religions from around the world. ICA brings people together around the vibrant Indian culture and heritage through various cultural, social, civic, and other activities.
India is a diverse country with all races and religions living peacefully together. it is an ancient land of Yoga, meditation, and ahimsa. Indian culture is more than 10,000 years old. We see the divine in everyone and everything. We celebrate diversity. We engage in activities designed to better our community through programming focused on serving the most vulnerable in our communities. Our programming is designed to help UNITE the people from the Indian subcontinent, to help preserve its culture and traditions, to pass on our cultural heritage to the next generation.
Since the pandemic, due to widespread hunger in our community, ICA has been distributing food and has worked to decrease food insecurity among the most vulnerable in our community. One third of Howard County families are food insecure. Our commitment to alleviate hunger in our community is unwavering.
SEVA is a big part of Indian culture. 'SEVA' in Hindi means selfless service to others without expecting anything in return. SEVA is the guiding principle of ICA. We are grateful to be able to serve and we serve with humility.
PROGRAMS & PROJECTS.
At the Indian Cultural Association, we offer a variety of programs and projects to promote and celebrate Indian culture. From dance and music performances to language and senior socials, we provide opportunities to learn about and experience all that Indian culture has to offer.
Community Events
We believe in the power of celebration and host a variety of community events throughout the year to showcase Indian culture. From Diwali and Holi festivals to Indian music and dance performances, we provide opportunities for individuals to come together and celebrate the vibrant and rich Indian heritage.
Racial Equity
Hunger Relief
1 in 4 children enrolled in Howard County Schools participates in the FARM (Free and Reduced Meals Program). And more than a third of Howard County families struggle to put food on their tables. Folllow our Facebook page for upcoming Free Food Distributions. No ID required, no questions asked.
Educational Programs
Health & Wellness
We recognize the value of physical and mental wellness and offer resources and support to help individuals achieve optimal health. From health fairs to yoga and meditation classes to mental health workshops, we provide a range of services to promote holistic wellness.
Community Outreach
Racial inequity, discriminatory treatment, and inequitable opportunities exist within Howard County. We are working to build collaborative relationships with communities, government agencies, and organizations throughout Howard County, Maryland to help them incorporate racial equity into all their policies, processes, and decision-making.
Education is a cornerstone of our organization, and we strive to provide opportunities for individuals of all ages to learn about Indian culture. From explaining the Festivals to language and cultural sensitivity questions, we offer insight on a range of educational topics to promote cross-cultural understanding.
We believe in the power of community and strive to build bridges between people of different backgrounds. Our community outreach programs aim to educate and engage individuals about Indian culture while fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
