Punjabi Cultural Society is based in Sacramento, the capital of California. It came into being in 1990. The moving spirit behind it was S. Rashpal Singh, his family and associates. Its primary purpose was to create awareness in the community abent the multifaceted Punjab Culture which is under serious threat from the sinister impact of the on slaught of the neo-culture of market economy.
Every
year two festivals are organized by The Society- ‘Visakhi’ in April and ‘Ladies Dance -Tian Mela’ in August. Both these festivals are aimed at making the younger generation born and bought up in the west aware about the robust and vibrant Punjabi Culture. The Society seeks the co-operation and participation of young scholars from colleges and universities young men and women go through rehearsals to inculcate in them the spirit of Punjabi Culture before they give a public performance. Prizes are given to the winners of the competion to encourage them. Exhibitions are arranged in which wall paintings and items of traditional Punjabi Culture are displayed. For the new comers this colourful show is very Fascinating.
Both the sexes participate in the ‘Visakhi” Festival or Mela. Young men and women perform Bhangra, Giddha, Traditional Punjabi Songs and Skits. These programs are lively and mirthful, but within the limits of decorum and decency, The ‘Tian Mela’ is held in August. In this Festival, however only ladies participate, even the organizers sit outside. The ladies themselves conduct the stage. This festival too is noted on Punjabi culture and ethos.
The society has started to honour organizations and individuals both from here and abroad involved in the promotion of Punabi Culture.
In both these Functions the effort is made by the organizers to create an environment which reminds the audience of the Punjab of yester years. The organizers ensure that there are no individuals with loose behavior to bother the participants or the Public. These Festivals have become so popular that people are coming in a big way to help this non-profit organization.
- Harjinder Singh Pandher
