Zenil Koovejee

A vibrant walking parade, complete with flags and drums, showcased the rich cultural diversity of all Indian states, adding a lively and colorful highlight to the Maya Bazaar.

The heart of San Ramon came alive this past Saturday, May 11, as the AIA Maya Bazaar transformed Bishop Ranch into a vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. From 11 AM to 7 PM, visitors were treated to an exhilarating fusion of sights, sounds, and tastes that made for an unforgettable day.

“I absolutely love events like this. Experiencing Indian culture right here in the Bay Area is such a joy,” said local attendee Kirtida Nannoo.

The event, orchestrated by the Association of Indo Americans and Bollywood 92.3, was a sensory delight. A tantalizing array of street food stalls, featuring many local Indian restaurants, beckoned food lovers with their exotic aromas, gems, and flavors. From spicy chaat to sweet jalebis, every bite was a celebration of culinary artistry.

“Our local Indian restaurants do an amazing job with the catering. Whether it’s dishes from the South, North, East, or West, you can find almost everything here,” said local attendee Prashil Sukla.

Shopping enthusiasts found paradise in the Jewelry Bazaar, Clothing Mela, and Handicrafts Expo. With an array of stunning jewelry, vibrant clothing, and intricate handicrafts on display, attendees eagerly shopped till they dropped, gathering treasures to take home.

“I support women artisans in Himachal, India by raising funds and awareness through selling ethnic clothes, and South-Asian crafts,” said Namrita Yuhanna, founder of woman-owned business Lovekari.

The Maya Bazaar wasn’t just about shopping and eating. It was a full-blown carnival. Amusement rides, including a whimsical train ride, and an array of carnival games provided endless fun for families. The Bubble Show and VR Games added a modern twist to the traditional festivities, enchanting both kids and adults alike.

“I love that my kids can have fun while I enjoy myself too. There are activities for everyone, and immersing my kids in our culture is truly worthwhile,” said Sukla.

Music and dance echoed through the air as cultural programs and Bollywood concerts kept the crowd grooving. From saree promenades to cultural programs, talented performers lit up the stage, offering a rhythmic blend of classical and contemporary Indian tunes that had everyone dancing.

“It’s always good to have the Mayor of San Ramon here. There’s esteemed embassy dignitaries and everybody is just having a great time,” said Nannoo. 

Amid the vibrant chaos, Mother’s Day was celebrated with special raffles and activities dedicated to moms, adding a heartfelt touch to the day’s merriment. Families enjoyed creating beautiful memories together in this lively setting.

“I think this is a wonderful effort by AIA in the Tri-Valley. This event is a great way to mingle and have a good time. It’s a complete cultural package — We have dance performances, arts and crafts, and much more,” said Yuhanna.

As the sun set, the echoes of laughter, music, and joy lingered, marking the AIA Maya Bazaar 2024 as San Ramon’s biggest and most colorful summer festival. For one magical day, the community came together to celebrate diversity, culture, and togetherness in a spectacular fashion.