ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
India Festival to return to Central Ohio
Visitors can explore an Indian Bazaar offering ethnic clothing, jewelry, handicrafts and décor, while a wide selection of regional Indian cuisine will showcase flavors from across the country.
-
1759953093.png)
Staff Reporter - Wed, 19, Aug 2026
- 02:53 EDT
- 49
INDIA FEST / FIA
The 28th annual India Festival will be held in Columbus on Aug. 22, bringing the rich cultural heritage, traditions and diversity of India to the Central Ohio region.
It is the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of Ohio’s flagship event and has become one of the region’s largest cultural showcases.
ALSO READ: Chutney Festival returns to Michigan
The daylong celebration at the Celeste Center at the Ohio Expo Center is expected to draw thousands of visitors from Ohio and neighboring states.
This year’s festival will feature a Bharat Showcase centered on the theme of Indian weddings, taking audiences on a cultural journey through the traditions, performing arts and celebrations of different regions of India.
The festival will also feature traditional and folk dances, classical performances and Bollywood-inspired entertainment by local and international artists.
Visitors can explore an Indian Bazaar offering ethnic clothing, jewelry, handicrafts and décor, while a wide selection of regional Indian cuisine will showcase flavors from across the country.
Other attractions include a free health fair, art exhibits, travel and education information, and interactive “Discover India” cultural displays.
A major highlight this year will be the appearance of Threeory, a progressive rock fusion band from Hyderabad. Founded in 2013, the band blends Indian classical music with global genres and its own signature sound. Threeory, currently touring the United States, will perform at the festival after 7 p.m.
FIA is also introducing a new Cultural Ambassador initiative, encouraging members of the Indian diaspora to invite a non-Asian Indian neighbor, friend or colleague to experience the festival. Registered guests will receive free admission.
“India Festival 2026 is bringing new ways to experience and share India,” said Sriram Menneni, president of FIA-Ohio. “From the Bharat Showcase: Wedding Edition and the first-ever FIA performance by fusion band Threeory to our new Cultural Ambassador Program, we’re celebrating India’s incredible diversity while inviting all of Central Ohio to experience it with us.”
Rajani Katte, chairman of FIA, said the festival is both a source of pride for the Indian American community and an invitation to the wider Central Ohio community.
“India Festival is a source of great pride for our community — and an open invitation to all of Central Ohio,” Katte said. “It is proof that when we share our culture instead of keeping it to ourselves, we build something truly meaningful: a celebration that belongs to everyone.”
Rupam Chokshi, FIA vice chair, said the festival has become the largest gathering of Asian Indians in Central Ohio, bringing together more than 35 local Indian organizations to showcase the country’s diverse culture.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
Leave A Comment
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login