INDIA Association of Wisconsin

08/26/2025

08/19/2025

Update on MELA – Festival of India 2025 (Date 18-August-2025)

Dear Friends and Community Members,

As you know, due to unprecedented flooding at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center grounds, we had to make the difficult but necessary decision to cancel this year’s MELA – Festival of India.

We want to share the following important updates:

a) Refunds Initiated: Refunds have been initiated to all vendors, donors, and sponsors. Official communication has already been sent to all our vendors,donors and sponsors.

In Case of Issues: If any vendor, donor, or sponsor has not yet received their refund, please contact us at [email protected]
or [email protected] We will take the necessary steps to resolve it promptly.

b) Gratitude to Volunteers & Committees: We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers and committee members whose dedication and tireless efforts were invaluable in preparing for this year’s festival.

c) Venue Partnership: Our sincere appreciation to the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts for their support and cooperation during this difficult time. We are planning to have MELA - FESTIVAL OF INDIA at the same venue next year.

d) Community Leadership: We also thank Steve Ponto, Mayor of Brookfield, for his continued encouragement and support.

While this year’s festival could not take place, we are already planning for a grand return next year. With your continued support, we look forward to making MELA – Festival of India an even more memorable celebration in 2026.

Thank you for standing with us through this unexpected challenge. Together, we will continue to celebrate culture, community, and unity.

Warm regards,

India Association of Wisconsin
Mela - Festival of India Committee

Mela Festival of India Saturday, August 16, 2025 @ 10:30 amSharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI India Association of Wisconsin presents Welcome to MELA Festival of India Festival of India aims to celebrate India's Independence Day by showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India....

08/16/2025

🌧️ Due to recent flooding at the venue, MELA – Festival of India 2025 had to be called off.

🇮🇳 But the celebration of spirit continues! Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has officially proclaimed August 16, 2025 as FESTIVAL OF INDIA DAY across the City of Milwaukee.

We look forward to celebrating together in 2026! 🙏


Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts MELA - FESTIVAL OF INDIA Suresh Krishnaiah Vinayak Dixit

08/16/2025

🌧️ MELA – Festival of India 2025 is cancelled due to flooding at the venue. 🇮🇳 But the spirit lives on—Governor Tony Evers has proclaimed Aug 15 as INDIA DAY in Wisconsin! Looking forward to celebrating together in 2026. 🙏
www.indiainwisconsin.org
Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts Vinayak Dixit

08/15/2025

Date: 14th August 2025
Subject: Official Cancellation of MELA – Festival of India 2025
From: India Association of Wisconsin – Organizer, MELA – Festival of India
Dear Friends and Community Members,
It is with deep regret that we announce the official cancellation of MELA – Festival of India 2025, which was scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025 at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts.
In recent days, severe and unprecedented weather conditions, including continuous heavy rainfall and extensive flooding, have caused significant damage to the venue grounds. After thorough discussions with local authorities, safety officials, and venue management, it has been determined that hosting the event this year is not feasible. The safety and well-being of our attendees, performers, vendors, donors, and volunteers remain our highest priority, and we cannot compromise on these standards.
While this decision is deeply disappointing for all involved, we are committed to returning with a full-scale celebration in 2026.
We will work to ensure that the next MELA – Festival of India continues to reflect the vibrancy, unity, and cultural richness that our community cherishes.
Our Vendor Management Team will be contacting all registered vendors to coordinate refunds.
Similarly, our Donor Relations Team will reach out to donors regarding options for their contributions, including refunds
We thank you for your understanding, patience, and unwavering support during this challenging situation. Together, we will ensure that MELA – Festival of India returns stronger than ever.
Warm regards,
Organizing Committee
MELA – Festival of India
India Association of Wisconsin
📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.indiainwisconsin.org

Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts

08/14/2025

Subject: Official Notice – Postponement of MELA – Festival of India (August 16, 2025)

Dear Friends and Community Members,

It is with deep regret that we announce the postponement of MELA – Festival of India, originally scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025, due to severe and unprecedented weather conditions. Heavy rainfall over the past several days has resulted in significant flooding at the venue, rendering large portions of the grounds unsafe and unsuitable for public gatherings. In consultation with local authorities, safety officials, and venue management, we have determined that proceeding as planned would present unacceptable risks to attendees, performers, vendors, and volunteers.

We are presently evaluating two possible courses of action:

a) Rescheduling the festival to an available weekend later in August 2025 (preferable 30th August), or

b) Cancelling the 2025 edition entirely and preparing for a full-scale return in 2026.

Our Vendor Management Team will directly contact all registered vendors to discuss possible alternatives, rollover arrangements, or refunds. In parallel, we will be reaching out to our valued donors to review options for their contributions in light of the revised plans.

Should the festival be rescheduled, all existing registrations, vendor bookings, and donor commitments will automatically transfer to the new date (based on their approval). If the event is cancelled for 2025, we will communicate refund or credit procedures promptly.

We deeply appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued support as we work through these unforeseen challenges. Additional updates will be shared as soon as plans are finalized.

Warm regards,
Organizing Committee
MELA – Festival of India
India Association of Wisconsin
📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.indiainwisconsin.org

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts WISN 12 NEWS 99.1 The Mix MELA - FESTIVAL OF INDIA The Morning Blend TMJ4
Real Milwaukee FOX6 News Milwaukee WCB - Waukesha WISN 12 NEWS
Picture of access to SHARON LYNN WILSON CENTER

08/13/2025

🍛✨ Vendor Spotlight – Hyderabad House Milwaukee at MELA – Festival of India! ✨🍛

Join us for a flavorful celebration on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI and experience the magic of Hyderabad House Milwaukee!

🌟 What to Expect:
✅ Rich & Authentic Indian Cuisine
✅ Famous Hyderabadi Biryani 🍲
✅ Samosas, Gulab Jamun, Chicken 65, Lassi & More
✅ Warm Hospitality & Fresh Flavors

📍 Location at MELA: Vendor Food Court – come hungry!
🕘 Event Time: 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
www.indiainwisconsin.org

Website of our vendor https://hhmilwaukee.com/

To signup contact: Vinayak +1 (414) 218-7669
Taste the richness of Indian flavors, celebrate the festive spirit, and support our amazing vendors! 💛

08/13/2025

🎤 Calling All Voices – Be Part of a Historic Anthem Performance! 🇮🇳🇺🇸
MELA – Festival of India 2025
“Experience India in the Heart of Wisconsin”

This year at MELA, we’re not just celebrating — we’re making history!
Join us in setting a Midwest record for the largest group of singers performing the Indian and American National Anthems together!

We are inviting singers of all ages to be part of a record-breaking performance of the Indian and American National Anthems at MELA – Festival of India, Wisconsin’s largest Indian cultural celebration.

India Association of Wisconsin is on a mission to set a Midwest record for the largest group of singers performing both national anthems together in harmony – Jana Gana Mana and The Star-Spangled Banner!

🎶 We are looking for:
✅ Soloists
✅ Choirs
✅ Families
✅ Kids & Adults of All Ages

🎯 Goal: Create a grand chorus of unity and pride at the opening of Wisconsin’s biggest Indian cultural celebration!

🎤 Why Join?

• Be part of a once-in-a-lifetime musical moment
• Represent the spirit of unity between India and the United States
• Get featured in media coverage and official event video
• Receive a certificate of participation in a record-setting event

📍 Event Details:
📅 Saturday, August 16, 2025 Morning 11:00 AM
📌 Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI

🎤 What You’ll Be Part Of:
• A Midwest record-breaking anthem performance
• A moment of unity between the Indian and American communities
• Media highlights, commemorative certificates & more!

Whether you're a trained vocalist, part of a school or temple choir, or simply love to sing – your voice matters.

📩 Register Now to Raise Your Voice!
Mela 2025 - National Anthem https://form.jotform.com/251803187382459
Contact:
Chaitra: (920) 918 0845,
Suresh: (262) 751-7526

📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.indiainwisconsin.org

Let your voice echo across cultures and communities.
Be part of this unforgettable musical movement!

🎉 | Experience India in the Heart of Wisconsin

-Festival of India ,
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts MELA - FESTIVAL OF INDIA Vinayak Dixit INDIA Association of Wisconsin WISN 12 NEWS PBS Wisconsin Milwaukee Journal Sentinel FOX6 News Milwaukee Real Milwaukee The Morning Blend TMJ4 TMJ4 News

08/13/2025

👗✨ MELA – Fashion Show: Last Few Days to Register! ✨👘
Strut the runway in your finest ethnic wear and celebrate style, culture, and confidence!

📅 Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
📍 Venue: Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI

👠 Categories:
• Female • Male • Family • Kids
(Traditional Indian attire encouraged—sarees, lehengas, sherwanis, kurtas & more!)

🏆 Highlights:
• Ramp walk on the MELA main stage
• Trophies & certificates for winners
• Professional photos & social media shout-outs

⏳ Hurry—registration closes soon!
👉 Register now: https://form.jotform.com/251806051319452
📧 Info: [email protected] | 🌐 www.indiainwisconsin.org

Let’s paint the runway with colors, culture, and couture! 💃🕺

08/12/2025

🇮🇳🇺🇸 JOIN THE MELA – FESTIVAL OF INDIA PARADE! 🎉🎶

Be part of the grand Independence Day Parade at MELA 2025 and celebrate the spirit of India & USA together!
Walk with pride, wave your flags, and showcase your cultural pride to thousands of cheering spectators! 🌟

📅 Date: 16th August 2025
📍 Venue: Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI

🎊 Who Can Join?
✅ Individuals & Families
✅ Cultural & Regional Associations
✅ Community Groups & Businesses

📌 Register Your Spot Now! https://form.jotform.com/251805776684470
📞 Contact: Suresh Krishnaiah, President IAW
[email protected]

💃 Let’s make this the most colorful, energetic, and united parade Wisconsin has ever seen!

08/12/2025

🎨✨ Unleash Your Creativity at MELA – Art Competition 2025 🖌️
Calling all young artists to bring colors, imagination, and patriotism to life! 🇮🇳

📅 Date: 16th August 2025
📍 Venue: Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI

🖍 Categories & Themes:

Ages 5 – 8: Theme – Independence (Medium: Crayons)

Ages 9 – 12: Theme – Independence (Medium: Crayons)

Ages 13 – 18: Theme – Independence (Medium: Pencil Sketching)

🕒 Competition Starts: 2:00 PM (60 minutes duration)
📄 Paper will be provided; bring your own drawing materials.
🏆 3 winners in each category!

📌 Register Now: https://form.jotform.com/252143963592462
📞 Contact: Ritu Panda – (262) 347-1632
📧 Email: [email protected]

🎯 Let your art speak louder than words!

08/12/2025

🎤✨ MELA – Singing Idol 2025 🎶
🎵 Do you have the voice to win hearts? This is YOUR stage! 🎵

📅 Date: 16th August 2025
📍 Venue: Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, Brookfield, WI

Join the most awaited singing competition at MELA – Festival of India and showcase your talent to the Midwest community!
🎼 Indian songs accepted – bring your best performance!
🏆 Exciting prizes & recognition for winners!

📌 Register Now: https://form.jotform.com/252144278985468
📞 Contact: Geetha Rajesh – (262) 951-8420

🌟 Let your voice be the star of the MELA!