India Visa Consular Camp ( KS Residents only)

Consular Services Camp for Kansas Residents

The Consulate General of India, Houston, in collaboration with the India Association of Kansas City (IAKC), HTCC and other regional organizations, will be hosting a one-day Consular Camp.

Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
Location: Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of Kansas City, 6330 Lackman Road, Shawnee Mission, KS 66217

US passport holders of Indian Origin, who are in the process of applying OCI Card, Emergency Visa and Renunciation of Indian nationality, may bring in their applications with the supporting documents to the Consular Camp, for verification.

Indian passport holders who are in the process of applying for renewal of their Indian passport, GEP & PCC may also bring in their applications with the supporting documents to the Consular Camp for verification.

Officers of the Consulate General of India, Houston will verify the applications and supporting documents. Applicants may thereafter send the applications to VFS, Houston. Miscellaneous Services to Indian Passport holders except NORI and PCC will also be provided at the Consulate Camp.

Please note that no Passport Renewal, VISA or OCI is issued on the spot.

Since this is a special drive, Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin may avail this opportunity and meet officers of the Consulate General of India, Houston.

Applicants would need to register to attend the consular camp. For details, please register here.

 

03/01 – IAKC Carrom tournament

🏆 Get Ready for the Ultimate Carrom Tournament! 🎯

Mark your calendars! Join us for an exciting Carrom Tournament on March 1st from 9 AM to 5 PM and put your skills to the test! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just love a good challenge, this is your chance to compete, have fun, and showcase your best shots!

📍 Date: March 1st

⏰ Time: 9 AM – 5 PM

📌 Registration Required! Don’t miss out—secure your spot ! https://iakc.org/events/iakc-carrom-tournament-2025-2/

02/21 – Join Us for the ChildLife Foundation Annual Fundraising Event in Kansas City!

Join Us for the ChildLife Foundation Annual Fundraising Event in Kansas City!

The ChildLife Foundation Kansas Team cordially invites you to an evening dedicated to transforming Pakistan’s healthcare for children. Mark your calendars for Friday, February 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM, and join us at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center, located at 2345 McGee St, Kansas City, MO 64108.

Event Highlights:

  • Keynote Speaker: Mr. Shahzad Zaki, General Manager of Communications at ChildLife Foundation, will discuss the organization’s impactful initiatives in revolutionizing Pakistan’s health sector to ensure a safer future for children.

  • Entertainment: Enjoy a performance by renowned stand-up comedian Saad Haroon, promising an evening filled with laughter and inspiration.

  • Host: The event will be graciously hosted by Mr. Shamil Abbasy.

ChildLife Foundation operates Children Emergency Rooms in 13 government teaching hospitals across Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and the Federal Capital, providing free treatment to 2 million children annually. Your support is crucial in sustaining and expanding these life-saving services.

How to Participate:

  • Tickets: Admission is free, but registration is required. Secure your spot by registering online.

  • Donations: If you’re unable to attend, consider supporting the cause through a donation. Every contribution makes a significant impact.

For more information about the event and to register or donate, please visit the ChildLife Foundation America event page.

Join us in making a difference and ensuring a healthier future for the children of Pakistan.

02/23 – Join IAKC’s Exclusive Wellness Zoom on Emotional Well-Being

Join IAKC’s Exclusive Wellness Zoom on Emotional Well-Being

📅 Date: Sunday, February 23
⏰ Time: 8:00 PM – 8:45 PM
💻 Online Event (Members Only – Free)

The Indian Association of Kansas City (IAKC) invites its members to an insightful Wellness Zoom session on Emotional Well-Being, featuring Dr. Rohit Saha, MD, Psychiatrist.

Understanding Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet many individuals struggle with identifying signs and symptoms of mental health disorders. This exclusive session aims to shed light on how mental health conditions impact thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as the challenges in diagnosing them.

Dr. Rohit Saha will discuss:
✅ General signs and symptoms of mental health disorders
✅ Common challenges in identifying mental health issues
✅ How to provide support to those in need

Interactive Discussion with the Speaker

After the session, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in an interactive discussion with Dr. Saha, asking questions and gaining deeper insights into mental health.

Don’t miss this chance to enhance your understanding of emotional well-being and learn how to support mental health in your community!

📌 For more details, visit: www.iakc.org
📧 Contact: info@iakc.org
📱 Follow IAKC: @iakckansas

02/08 – Celebrate Saraswati Puja 2025 with KCBA!

The Kansas City Bengali Association (KCBA), a proud KCdesi Community Partner, warmly invites you to celebrate Saraswati Puja 2025 on Saturday, February 8th. Join us in honoring Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, music, and the arts, in a day filled with devotion, cultural programs, and delicious food.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, February 8th, 2025
  • Venue:
    Village Presbyterian Church on Antioch
    14895 Antioch Rd, Overland Park, KS 66221

Program Schedule:

  • Puja Starts: 10:30 AM
  • Anjali: 12:00 PM
  • Lunch: 1:00 PM
  • Cultural Program: 2:30 PM
  • Pithe Puli Utsav (Traditional Bengali Desserts): 3:30 PM

This event is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Bengali traditions, enjoy vibrant cultural performances, and savor authentic Bengali delicacies. Whether you’re a member of the Indian diaspora or simply curious about the richness of Bengali culture, this celebration promises to be a memorable experience for all.

For any queries, please contact KCBA at kcba@kcbengalis.com.

Let’s come together as a community to celebrate Saraswati Puja with devotion, joy, and a shared appreciation of culture!

02/01 – Celebrate Saraswati Puja 2025 with ABKC Sangam

Celebrate Saraswati Puja 2025 with ABKC Sangam

The Association of Bengalis Kansas City Sangam (ABKC) invites you to join the vibrant celebrations of Saraswati Puja 2025 on Saturday, February 1, from 10 AM to 4 PM. The event will be held at Rising Star Elementary School, 8600 Candlelight Lane, Lenexa, KS 66215.

Event Highlights:

  • Cultural Program Special Attraction: Enjoy the captivating Bangla Natok (play) “Arun Barun Kiranmala.”
  • A day filled with devotion, cultural performances, and community bonding.

Subscription Details:

  • $20 for Members
  • $25 for Non-Members
  • $15 for College Students
  • $12 for School Students (above 6 years old)
  • Free Admission for children below 6 years.

For More Information:

  • Sonali Choudhury: 816-739-8612
  • Arup Majumdar: 732-501-8689
  • Dithi Banerjee Bose: 716-780-3067
  • Ayota Banerjee: 352-872-8479

Mark your calendars and join the celebration of knowledge and wisdom with your community. We look forward to seeing you there!

02/15 – IAKC Table Tennis Tournament 2025

IAKC Table Tennis Tournament 2025

Event Guidelines:

  • The registration fee is non-refundable.
  • Participants are expected to arrive on time. Failure to do so may result in disqualification from the event.
  • In case of conflicts or disputes, the final decision will rest with the IAKC Sports Team. Their decision is binding and not open to further discussion.

Rules: Click here to read the rules

Waiver: https://iakc.org/events/sports-liability-waiver/

Register yourself here: https://iakc.org/events/iakc-table-tennis-tournament-2025-2/

01/29 – Wellness Zoom – Back Pain by Dr Paras Shah

Wellness Zoom – Back Pain by Dr Paras Shah

This is a FREE event, but for IAKC members only.

Description : It is estimated that up to 84 percent of adults have low back pain at some time in their lives. This presentation will provide brief insights into the causes, prevention, and management of back pain for better overall health and quality of life.

About Our Speaker: Paras Shah, M.D., M.S.

Dr. Shah is a double board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pain Management physician. During his residency and fellowship training, Dr. Shah received comprehensive training and extensive exposure to musculoskeletal medicine, diagnostic ultrasound, spine and sports medicine, fluoroscopic guided spinal injections, and ultrasound-guided peripheral joint injections. His focus is on correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, with the goal of optimizing function that will enhance his patients’ quality of life. Most recently, Dr. Shah was the medical director and lead physician at Regenexx Kansas City. He has also worked as a Physiatrist and Interventional Pain Physician at Montefiore Medical Center and Labette Health, an Assistant Professor at Pennsylvania State University, a Lecturer at the University of Michigan, and an Ophthalmologist in Mumbai, India. In his free time, Dr. Shah enjoys playing golf, tennis, listening to music, and travelling with family.

Education & Training

Fellowship, Interventional Pain Medicine – ​Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation,  Montefiore Medical Center, New York, NY

Residency, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation – Montefiore Medical Center, New York, NY

Internship, General Surgery – St. Francis Medical Center, Seton Hall University, NJ

Master of Science in Computer Science, University of Alabama Birmingham

Board Certifications

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Pain Medicine

Hospital and Academic Affiliations

Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center

​North Kansas City Hospital

Kansas City VA Medical Center

This event is exclusively for IAKC registered members. Not a member yet? Buy your membership here!

03/08 – Rhythm India: Bollywood and Beyond @JCCC

Rhythm India: Bollywood and Beyond

7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2025 | Yardley Hall

Tickets start at $25.

 Individual Tickets  

Experience the vibrant costumes, dynamic music, and soulful rhythms of the “ghungroo” dancing bells, from the echoing heartbeats of royal palaces and sacred temples to the swaying voices of desert villages and modern stages.

Joya Kazi is a Telly Award-winning, World Choreography Award-nominated, and Universal Dance Award-nominated multi-hyphenated artist. A choreographer, actress, dancer, educator, and entrepreneur who founded her company at just 16, her work has earned her a spot on the DissDash list of Coolest South Asians. She also is featured on a public mural at the Artesia Library of Los Angeles County, representing the city’s South Asian influence of art and culture. She is a member of the Emmys/Television Academy, has served on the Screen Actors Guild Awards Nominating Committee, and has also served on countless judging panels, including at the World Choreography Awards. Behind the camera, she represents and casts the finest South Asian dance talent and consults on productions from stage to screen worldwide.

Kazi’s credits span Hollywood to Bollywood and include Mindy Kaling’s “Netflix Never Have I Ever,” Disney, Dreamworks, FOX “New Girl,” International Indian Film Academy Awards, Grammys, DJ Snake, The Strokes, and Raja Kumari. She was Top 8 on Reality TV show “Dance Plus,” has trained actors like India’s Jaqueline Fernandez and Disney’s Avantika Vandanapu, and has performed with Bollywood stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Madhuri Dixit, Hrithik Roshan, Ranveer Singh, and Siddharth Malhotra.

 

01/19 – Celebrate Sankranthi Sambaralu with TAGKC!

Celebrate Sankranthi Sambaralu with TAGKC!

The warmth of Sankranthi is upon us, and what better way to kick off the New Year than coming together as a community to celebrate this cherished festival? TAGKC invites you to Sankranthi Sambaralu, a vibrant event packed with cultural richness, fun competitions, and the spirit of togetherness. Mark your calendars for Sunday, January 19th, from 2 PM to 8 PM, and join us at the Hindu Temple for an unforgettable celebration!

Event Highlights:

1. Rangoli Competition (Adults): Showcase your artistic flair and create stunning muggu designs in this exciting competition. Here are the rules:

  • Teams can have up to 4 participants, with a registration fee of $10 per person.
  • Each team will be given 2 hours to complete one rangoli on a 6 ft round table.
  • TAGKC will provide chalk powder and colors; participants can bring additional decorative materials (stencils, permanent markers, pre-drawn traces, or rangoli tools are not allowed).
  • Judging will be based on design, theme, presentation, and creativity, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes up for grabs.

2. Kids’ Art Competition: Let your little Picassos shine! The competition is split into two age groups:

  • Group 1 (10 years and below) – Theme: Sankranthi.
  • Group 2 (11 years and above) – Theme: Sankranthi. Two winners will be chosen from each age group.

3. Chess Tournament: For TAGKC’s young strategists, TAGKC have a chess competition also divided into two age groups:

  • Group 1 (10 years and below).
  • Group 2 (11 years and above). Two winners will be crowned from each group.

Registration Details:

Why Attend?

This Sankranthi, immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of rangoli, marvel at the creativity of young artists, and cheer on budding chess masters. Sankranthi Sambaralu is more than just an event; it’s a chance to connect with TAGKC’s heritage and build cherished memories with friends and family.

So, gather your loved ones, bring your enthusiasm, and let’s make this Sankranthi Sambaralu a celebration to remember. See you there!

 

02/08 – KCBA Presents Saraswati Puja 2025

Saraswati Puja 2025

  •   
  • Village Presbyterian Church on Antioch 14895 Antioch Road. Overland Park, KS, 66221

The Kansas City Bengali Association warmly invites you to join us for Saraswati Puja 2025, a celebration of wisdom, learning, and creativity dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

This cherished event will bring together families and friends from our vibrant Bengali community to honor the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts. From the traditional puja ceremony, bengali bhog to colorful cultural program, the day promises to be a memorable blend of devotion and celebration.

Let us come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion with devotion, joy, and cultural pride. Bring your family and friends to make this event even more special!

About KCBA
Kansas City Bengali Association (KCBA) is a non-profit tax exempted (501c3) organization, established in 2010, to serve the Bengali community within and beyond the Greater Kansas City area.

02/15 – Sangam Talk Show – Immigration Reform Updates

Hello Everyone!!! The next “Sangam Talk Show” with Immigration Attorney Mr. Praveen Medikundam will be organized on Saturday, February 15 from 3 PM – 4 PM. It will be a Zoom Show.

Topic: SANGAM TALK SHOW
Time: Feb 15, 2025 03:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87976718372?pwd=xTPCDiesT01Lkbns7roaVpZ6nhKjad.1

Meeting ID: 879 7671 8372
Passcode: 406124

01/25 – IAKC Presents India’s 76th Republic Day Celebrations

Celebrate India’s 76th Republic Day with IAKC and KCdesi

As India Association of Kansas City (IAKC) proudly celebrates its 60th year, join us in commemorating India’s 76th Republic Day! This grand event is a testament to our community’s enduring cultural pride and heritage. We at KCdesi, a proud Community Partner (KCP) of IAKC, are thrilled to spread the word about this exciting celebration.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss out!

Event Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
📍 Venue: Hindu Temple & Cultural Center of Kansas City
6330 Lackman Road, Shawnee, KS 66217

Why Attend?

This is a FREE event designed for the entire family, with a lineup of activities that will inspire, engage, and entertain:

  • 🎤 National Anthem
  • 🚩 Flag Unfurling
  • 🎭 Cultural Show
  • 🎨 Tattoo Art
  • 🖌️ Drawing and Painting Activities
  • 🎮 Games & Art Competition
Get Involved in the Cultural Show!

Showcase your talent at the Republic Day celebration. Whether you’re a dancer, singer, actor, or a group performer, this is your chance to shine!

📥 How to Register: Email programchair@iakc.org by Monday, January 13, 2025, with the following details:

  • Name & Short Performance Description (for emcee)
  • Type of Performance – Dance, Vocal, Skit, Short Play, etc. (Include song details if dance or vocal)
  • Coordinator/Choreographer Details – Name, Email Address, Phone Number
  • Number of Participants

🎶 Important Dates:

  • Audio tracks (if needed) must be submitted by Friday, January 17, 2025.

Rules of Participation:

  • Performances must be patriotic in theme (movie songs allowed if patriotic).
  • Performance duration: 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Groups of 4 or more participants encouraged.
  • Participants must be at least 5 years old.
  • Songs are registered on a first-come, first-served basis. (IAKC will notify you to select another song if yours is already registered.)
  • Solo registrations are now closed.
Art Competition: “Celebrating 60 Years of Indian Heritage”

Get creative and showcase your artistic talent! Here are the details:

🎨 Age Groups:

  • Group A: 6–8 years
  • Group B: 9–11 years
  • Group C: 12–14 years

🏆 Prizes:

  • Two winners per group (6 winners total) will be announced and awarded during the event. (Winners must be present to receive their prize.)

🎨 Rules:

  • Submit one drawing or painting on flat paper.
  • Allowed Paper Sizes: A4, A3, or A2.
  • Mediums: Pencil, color pencil, crayon, watercolor, oil paint, or acrylic.
  • Not Allowed: Computer-generated art, photographs, wires, or 3D objects.

🎨 Submission Guidelines:

  • Artwork must be completed in advance and submitted between 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM at the venue.
  • Late submissions (after 11:45 AM) will not be accepted.
Let’s come together to celebrate the legacy of India’s Republic Day and the 60-year journey of IAKC. This is an opportunity to connect with the community, immerse yourself in cultural festivities, and create cherished memories.

We at KCdesi are honored to be a part of this vibrant celebration as a KCdesi Community Partner. Let’s make this Republic Day a truly memorable one!

For more updates and information about this and other community events, stay connected with KCdesi.

12/14 – Join Us for the IAKC Annual General Body Meeting!

IAKC Logo

Join Us for the IAKC Annual General Body Meeting!

Attention IAKC Members!

You are cordially invited to the Annual General Body Meeting of the India Association of Kansas City (IAKC). Let’s come together to discuss the year’s accomplishments, plans for the future, and engage with our vibrant community.

Date: Saturday, December 14th
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Venue: Lenexa City Center Library
Address: 8778 Penrose Lane, Lenexa, KS 66219

This is an excellent opportunity to connect, contribute, and make your voice heard. We look forward to seeing you there!

#KCdesi #KCdesiEvents #KCdesiCommunityPartners #IAKC #KansasCityIndians #CommunityMatters #AGM2024 #LenexaEvents 

12/14 – Join Chinmaya Mission KC for Samarpanam – 2024 Ashram Fundraiser!

Join Chinmaya Mission Kansas City for Samarpanam – 2024 Ashram Fundraiser!

Chinmaya Mission Kansas City invites you and your family to a delightful evening filled with inspiration, devotion, and community as part of their Samarpanam – 2024 Ashram Fundraiser. Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 5:00 PM, and be a part of this meaningful event!

Event Details:

  • Date & Time: Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 5:00 PM
  • Venue: Harmony Middle School, 10101 W 141st St, Overland Park, KS 66221
  • Tickets: $75 per person (Reserve your spot today at chinmayakansascity.org/annual-fundraiser)

Highlights of the Evening:

  1. Keynote Address: Swami Siddhananda from Chinmaya Mission, Philadelphia, will grace the occasion and share his insights.
  2. Crowdfunding Campaign Highlights: Learn about the progress and vision for the new Chinmaya Ashram, fostering spiritual growth in our community.
  3. Bhajan Sandhya: Immerse yourself in the divine melodies during the soulful bhajan session.
  4. Banquet: Enjoy a delicious feast while connecting with fellow members of the Chinmaya Mission family.
  5. Social Hour: Join us between 4:30 – 5:00 PM to interact with attendees and celebrate this vibrant community.

This event is not just about fundraising; it’s an opportunity to deepen your connection with Chinmaya Mission’s vision of spiritual education, selfless service, and community building.

By attending Samarpanam, you’ll directly support the development of the new Ashram, a center that will nurture generations with the teachings of Vedanta.

Get Involved and Share Your Story

KCdesi is proud to support Chinmaya Mission Kansas City and other organizations in promoting community events. Do you have exciting Community News or Events? Share them at KCdesi!

Together, let’s strengthen our connections and celebrate the richness of our community!