PHOENIXVILLE, PA — The Philadelphia Rajasthani Mandal (PARAM) brought together families from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and neighboring states for its annual summer picnic on July 12, using the event to promote Rajasthani language, traditions and cultural heritage across generations.
Held at Charlestown Township Park, the gathering featured traditional food prepared by volunteers, cultural activities, youth recognition and games rooted in Rajasthani customs.
Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell attended as the event’s chief guest, meeting with community members and recognizing the organization’s efforts to preserve its cultural traditions.
Unlike many community festivals, PARAM members prepared the day’s meals on site rather than using a catering service. Volunteers spent the morning cooking traditional dishes including Kota Hing Kachori, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Aloo Ki Sabzi, dal, rice, fresh rotis, Lasun Chutney, Kairi Ka Panna, Ras Malai and paan.
The organization described the communal meal preparation as a longstanding Rajasthani tradition intended to strengthen community ties while passing culinary traditions to younger generations.
Beyond the meal, the event focused on maintaining cultural connections for families whose children have grown up in the United States.
“Our children are Americans by birth, but they should also know where their ancestors came from,” PARAM President Dr. Ravi Murarka said. “They should know our language, our traditions, our festivals, our food, and our values. Heritage survives only when it is practiced.”
The picnic also featured traditional games, including Satoliya and Ghoda Javar Khay, alongside cricket, volleyball and badminton.
PARAM recognized nine young participants who earlier this year created presentations and posters highlighting the Rajasthani language, cuisine, festivals and heritage during the Bharatiya Temple Gangaur Festival.
The students were also recognized by the Rajasthan Association of North America for promoting Rajasthani culture. Aarushi Sharma received additional recognition for a presentation emphasizing the importance of preserving one’s mother tongue.
The organization credited dozens of volunteers with planning the event, transporting cooking equipment, preparing meals, coordinating activities and cleaning the park following the celebration.
PARAM serves Rajasthani families throughout the Greater Philadelphia region and organizes cultural events aimed at preserving the traditions, language and customs of Rajasthan while fostering community among Indian Americans.
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