Pennsylvania: The aroma of freshly prepared Rajasthani delicacies, the melodies of traditional folk songs, and the laughter of families spanning multiple generations filled Charlestown Township Park on Sunday, July 12, as the Philadelphia Rajasthani Mandal (PARAM) hosted its Annual Summer Picnic. The event brought together Rajasthani families from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and neighboring states in a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, and community.
The gathering was honored by the presence of Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell, who attended as Chief Guest. Commissioner Maxwell met with community members, observed the unique traditions that make PARAM's annual picnic special, and expressed his appreciation for the organization's dedication to preserving Rajasthani culture for future generations.
Unlike many community gatherings, PARAM's annual picnic continues a cherished Rajasthani tradition of preparing every meal together rather than relying on outside catering.
Early in the morning, volunteers arrived carrying large cooking vessels, traditional utensils, spices, and fresh ingredients. Families worked side by side throughout the day, preparing authentic Rajasthani cuisine just as communities have done for generations in villages and towns across Rajasthan.
Guests enjoyed a wide variety of freshly prepared dishes, including the famous Kota Hing Kachori, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Aloo Ki Sabzi, Dal, Rice, fresh rotis, traditional chutneys including Lasun Chutney, Kairi Ka Panna, Ras Malai, ice cream, and traditional paan. The homemade flavors and aromas brought back fond memories of Rajasthan for many attendees.
Commissioner Maxwell sampled several traditional dishes, including the popular Kota Hing Kachori, and complimented the volunteers for preparing authentic homemade Rajasthani cuisine.
Beyond the food and festivities, PARAM's mission is to preserve the Rajasthani language, traditions, values, and cultural heritage for future generations growing up in the United States.
Many PARAM families have lived in America for decades while continuing to speak Rajasthani at home, celebrate traditional festivals, pass down family values, and introduce younger generations to the customs and heritage of Rajasthan.
"Our children are Americans by birth, but they should also know where their ancestors came from," said Dr. Ravi Murarka, President of PARAM. "They should know our language, our traditions, our festivals, our food, and our values. Heritage survives only when it is practiced."
The picnic also celebrated Rajasthan's traditional games, giving both children and adults an opportunity to experience activities enjoyed for generations.
Adults enthusiastically participated in the traditional game Satoliya, while many children were introduced to Ghoda Javar Khay for the first time. Families also enjoyed cricket, volleyball, badminton, and other recreational activities, creating a balance between heritage and modern family entertainment.
One of the afternoon's highlights was the recognition of nine young participants who represented Rajasthani heritage during the Bharatiya Temple Gangaur Festival by creating presentations and posters promoting the Rajasthani language, traditional cuisine, festivals, culture, and heritage.
Commissioner Josh Maxwell recognized the students' dedication to preserving their cultural roots while growing up in the United States.
Earlier this year, these students were also recognized by the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) for their outstanding efforts to promote Rajasthani heritage.
A special recognition was presented to Aarushi Sharma, whose presentation on the importance of preserving one's mother tongue earned special appreciation from Shri Prem Bhandari, President of RANA, who honored her for her exceptional work.
The success of the annual picnic was made possible entirely through volunteer service.
