Our Havyaka culture today is a blend of traditional values and modern influences. Even while adapting to changing times and developments, our Havyaka community has managed to preserve its cultural heritage and values that brings us together as one family.

Havyaka culture is rich in various festivals and rituals. The community celebrates traditional festivals like Makara Sankranthi, Yugadi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navaratri, and Deepavali. These celebrations involve performing rituals, organizing cultural events, activities for all age groups and socializing. Havyaka aduge is a special attraction in these events which is known for its distinct flavors and spices, and authentic touch.

Havyaka Association of Americas was formed in 1982 and it has grown into an organization with 18 Chapters. More Chapters are getting formed as more Havyaka families are coming together to create platforms for all to meet throughout the year in their respective regions. We have many first-generation Youths and Young Professionals. Youth Forum was formed in 2021 and Young Professionals group in 2023. Since the inception of Havyaka Youth Forum, we see more and more Youth involvement in all corners of Havyaka activities and celebrations. This year Youth participated in Karaoke program, Youth Debate and Youth Dance Competition that we presented under HAA online platform, HAA ರಂಗಮಂಚ (Rangamancha).

Youth energy will be the highlight of 20^th biennial HAA convention with active involvement, and representation of youth members. The Havyaka community recognizes the importance of engaging youth in decision-making processes, discussions, and activities related to their community’s enrichment and development. The convention provides opportunities for youth members to take up leadership roles, actively participate in the organizing committees and also to organize activities by themselves. It will encourage them to share their expertise, experiences, and ideas during pre-convention planning, convention and beyond. This will help youth in nurturing leadership skills, creativity, sharing & caring for the community, increasing awareness, performing cultural activities and showcasing their talents in various ways.

While we continue to celebrate the rich culture, family values and bonding of all age groups in the 20^th biennial convention, we will discover the world of Youth creativity.

Let youth energy shine every corner of the Convention, shine the surroundings and everywhere!

Coming together for this community convention is not only fun, but also creates an opportunity to instill the collective confidence among our younger generation and strong pride for our culture.

ಕುಟುಂಬ ಸಮೇತರಾಗಿ ನಿಂಗೊ ಎಲ್ಲೋರೂ ಬನ್ನಿ, ನಿಂಗಳ ಸ್ನೇಹಿತರನ್ನೂ ಕರಕ್ಕೊಂಡು ಬನ್ನಿ! ಭೇಟಿ ಅಪ್ಪೋ, ಎಲ್ಲೋರನ್ನೂ ಕಾಂಬ! ಸಮ್ಮೇಳನದಲ್ಲಿ ಸಿಗೋಣ!

Warm Regards,

Usha Kuloor Bhat, Pennsylvania