Page 18 - The Indian EYE 121225

NORTH AMERICAN Newsline DECEMBER 12, 2025 | The Indian Eye 18

IAA Houston Introduces

the 2026 Season with Craig Pruess,

Indrajit Bannerjee, Indian Idol and more

IAA Houston Concludes 2025 with a Sold-Out Raj Kapoor Centennial Tribute
and Announces Exciting 2026 Lineup

OUR BUREAU
Houston, TX
he Indo-American Association (IAA Hous-
ton) wrapped its 2025 season on November
T22 with a packed and heartfelt Raj Kapoor
Centennial Tribute, and is gearing up for a new
year that emphasizes community, creativity, and
culture. Presented in partnership with Niche Enter-
tainment, the season finale honored one of Indian
cinema’s greatest legends through a moving blend
of live music, rich storytelling, and timeless melo-
dies that defined multiple generations of film and
culture. Audiences were transported through the
golden era of Hindi cinema as renowned vocalists
and musicians recreated Raj Kapoor’s unforgetta-
ble soundscape, celebrating his 100-year legacy in a
symphonic, contemporary format.
This hallmark event included a touching ac-
knowledgement of Leela and Natesan (Nat) Krish-
namurthy, by Judge Juli A. Mathew. As two pillars
of Houston’s Indian arts and philanthropic com-
munity, IAA honored the Krishnamurthys for their
board service, their contributions to the community,
and their tireless advocacy for arts and humanitari-
an causes, spanning more than 25 years.
As IAA closes one extraordinary season, the
nonprofit is thrilled to announce an expanded and
dynamic 2026 season, which will feature eight major
performances across classical, contemporary, and fu-
sion genres, and two signature series. Audiences can
look forward to world-class performances including:
Shanti: Music Bridging Worlds: Award-winning
UK composer and producer Craig Pruess and his
East–West orchestra present SHANTI, a vibrant
journey across musical landscapes—classical, jazz,
cinematic, and country. Cultures and hearts connect
in a shared harmony of peace. Joined by Sitar Mae-
stro Indrajit Bannerjee, Conductor John Moon.
The Draupadi Phenomenon: A compelling
dance-theatre production that re-envisions Draupa-
di as an enduring icon of feminine power, dignity,
and unyielding resilience. Conceptualized and cho- In addition to its performance season, IAA for making the 2025 season a resounding success.
reographed by Guru Sanchita Bhattacharya, this is launching new community initiatives to deep- With a renewed vision and an inspiring lineup, the
mesmerizing production features her acclaimed en cultural engagement and wellness offerings organization looks forward to delivering another
troupe alongside talented Houston dancers. citywide. Beginning in 2026, IAA will introduce year of boundary-breaking artistry rooted in the
Voices of Indian Idols: Rishi Singh and Anja- Sound Therapy sessions as well as Movement & richness of the Indian subcontinent.
na Padmanabhan straight from the stage of Indi- Mobility dance classes, expanding its commitment IAA is a nonprofit organization based on a
an Idol to the heart of Houston. These dynamic to accessible cultural experiences and community mission to bridge cultural divides by showcas-
vocalists will deliver an unforgettable night of well-being. ing the rich heritage of the Indian subcontinent
melody and masti, from golden classics to today’s IAA Houston extends heartfelt gratitude to through multi-disciplinary performing arts, cultur-
chart-toppers. It’s the spirit of Indian Idol... Live! its audiences, partners, volunteers, and supporters al, educational and artistic expressions.

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