Yoga in Maschpark and a Holi Festival
How IASH is Celebrating Its Anniversary
15 Years of the Indian Association Hannover
The Indian Association Hannover has been active for 15 years, and its members are celebrating with numerous public events. The festivities begin on March 1st with an Indian Potluck Lunch, where everyone brings a dish to share. The association plays a vital role in helping Indian students at Leibniz University with orientation, visa questions, networking, and celebrating traditional festivals. This year, to mark its 15th anniversary, a series of public events are planned. Everyone in Hannover is invited, including to the International Yoga Day on June 22nd in Maschpark, which is free and open to all, and to Diwali on October 25th at Freizeitheim Ricklingen, which will serve as the grand finale of the celebrations.
Association President is also an SPD Councilor
The association is led by Bala Ramani, who is also the head of the SPD city council faction in Hannover. A marine biologist by training, he came to Hannover over 20 years ago to complete his PhD. In spring 2023, India honored him with the highest award given to Indians living abroad, recognizing his role as an informal diplomat, building bridges both in local politics and within the Indian Association. The association's leadership also includes Vice President Mairali Majmudar and Treasurer Vinay Kumar Nandimandalam. The association represents around 300 Indian members from Hannover and nearby cities like Celle, Braunschweig, and Alfeld. Most members are highly educated, holding PhDs and professional jobs. The economic opportunities in Hannover, including companies with strong ties to India, have encouraged them to stay. According to Ramani, the Indian community in the Hannover region includes around 3,500 people, and the association serves them all, regardless of membership.
Connections to High-Level Indian Diplomacy
Hannover’s academic institutions attract young Indian scholars, and the association's support and strong network have made it well-known even in India. The organization maintains excellent connections through the Indian Consulate in Hamburg and the Embassy in Berlin, extending its influence into Indian diplomacy.
Gandhi Bust as a Gift to the City
The association actively contributes to Hannover's cultural landscape. A notable example is the Gandhi bust, a gift from India to the city ten years ago, when India was the partner country of the Hannover Messe. The statue, located on Culemannstraße, is maintained by the association and the nearby International School. During India's participation in the International Fireworks Competition in August 2024, the association enriched the event with traditional costumes and performances. Members also frequently participate in cultural events across the city.
Upcoming Events
The anniversary celebrations begin on Saturday, March 1st, at Freizeitheim Stöcken, shortly after International Mother Language Day (February 21st). Starting at 12:30 PM, the event will feature dance, music, and an Indian Potluck Lunch. In August (exact date TBD), a food festival with Indian cuisine will take place at MTV Herrenhausen, alongside the vibrant Holi Festival. At the end of September or early October, around Gandhi’s birthday, the association and the City of Hannover will jointly host various cultural events during the India Days.