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Friends of Madhya Pradesh hosts annual picnic in NJ
The cultural heritage of Indore, Ujjain, and Mandu was showcased at the event, which was themed "Malwa Mela."
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Staff Reporter - Mon, 15, Sep 2025
- 17:18 EDT
- 79
Decorations celebrating the cultural heritage of Indore, Ujjain, and Mandu at the Friends of Madhya Pradesh annual picnic. / Photo courtesy- Friends of MP NYNJ
The Friends of Madhya Pradesh New York–New Jersey (Friends of MPNYNJ) held its annual picnic on Sept. 14 at Rosedale Park, drawing close to 300 attendees in celebration of culture, cuisine, and community.
Deputy Consul General of India in New York, Vishal Harsh graced the occasion, spending over three hours interacting with families. He praised the strong bonds within the community and the informal yet festive atmosphere.
Deputy Consul General of India in New York, Vishal Harsh (2nd from left) attended the event / Photo courtesy- Friends of MP NYNJ
Attendees pose for a group photograph, reflecting community spirit at the Friends of Madhya Pradesh annual gathering. / Photo courtesy- Friends of MP NYNJThe cultural heritage of Indore, Ujjain, and Mandu was showcased at the event, which was themed "Malwa Mela." The venue was decorated with ethnic picture booths and placards, while attendees wore name labels identifying their towns of origin in Madhya Pradesh, enabling many to reconnect with old friends, and neighbors. First-time participants were given distinct labels to encourage interaction.
Authentic Madhya Pradesh cuisine, prepared on site, was the event’s highlight. The day began with a breakfast of Indore’s traditional Poha, Jalebi, and Saboo Dana Wada, followed by a festive lunch of Poori, Shrikhand, and Halwa.
Authentic Madhya Pradesh cuisine, including Poha, Jalebi, Saboo Dana Wada, Poori, Shrikhand, and Halwa, served fresh on-site at the Friends of Madhya Pradesh annual picnic. / Photo courtesy- Friends of MP NYNJ
Attendees of the event / Photo courtesy- Friends of MP NYNJSpecial activities ensured participation across generations, including innovative versions of antakshari and musical chairs, as well as a father–child flameless cooking contest, which proved to be a crowd favorite.
Children engage in creative activities during the Malwa Mela-themed picnic, part of the event’s special programs for young attendees. / Photo courtesy- Friends of MP NYNJEstablished in 2015, the picnic has grown into a signature event, with this year’s gathering witnessing full participation and a waitlist of eager families. Organized entirely by volunteers, the picnic has become an annual reunion for Madhya Pradesh families in the U.S., sustaining connections and fostering cultural pride.
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