The Maheshwari community of Rajasthan in Texas came together on November 24, 2022, for a Thanksgiving weekend to relish its culture and connect at the 11th International Maheshwari and Rajasthani Convention (IMRC) held at the Marriott Marquis in downtown Houston.
The convention was kicked off by Convenor Sharad Mantri, National President Abhilasha Rathi, BOT Chair Ghanshyam Heda and co-convenors Archana Bhakkad and Sanjay Jajoo, while the guests of honor included Shailesh Lodha, Dr Ruma Devi, Kartikeya Baldwa, Dr Renu Khator and the Consul General Aseem Mahajan, the news release said.
Hosted by the Southwest chapter of the Maheshwari Mahasabha of North America, MMNA, nearly 150 volunteers worked for the last six months to prepare for the event, the release added.
Highlights of the event included a trip to a ranch, Ghoomar dances, creative breakout sessions, musical night, Mahasangram, Mahesh Tank, professional networking, Children’s Talent show, Matrimony sessions, Diet Planning and Yoga sessions.
More than 115 participants performed and enacted Rajasthani festivals, performed a dance of the theme 'Ristey Reet Riwaj.' "The Education Foundation of MMNA also raised $115,000," said Convenor Sharad Mantri.
The Rajasthanis Abroad Youth Samaj (RAYS) President Sarika Malani noted that around 200 youth members joined the activities, which ranged from professional networking to card-making for the Texas Children’s Hospital.
A live musical concert by a team of 14 performers from Niche Entertainment, India, entertained the attendees at the Grand Gala Nite. The event concluded on Sunday with the closing ceremony and annual awards. Sushma Pallod received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her community work, while Jitendra Muchhal and Padam Maheshwari received special recognition awards.
