The ladies’ wing of the Flower City Friends Club organized a vibrant and culturally rich celebration of the Indian festival Tiyan Da Mela last weekend. The event was a joyful gathering of over 80 women members who celebrated their heritage through traditional performances, delicious food, and vibrant displays of Punjabi culture. The participants adorned traditional clothing, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Tiyan, also known as Teej, is a Punjabi festival that marks the arrival of the monsoon season and is celebrated primarily by women. Traditionally, it involves singing, dancing (like Gidha), and swings decorated with flowers, symbolizing joy and unity. This festival brings women together to share moments of laughter, togetherness, and celebration of life’s blessings. The Flower City Friends Club upheld these traditions, making the event a cultural showcase of Punjab’s rich heritage.
The festival was graced by Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, who attended as the chief guest and even participated in the dances, much to the delight of the attendees. Speaking about the event, Rowena Santos said, “It was a privilege to be part of this beautiful celebration of culture and unity. The energy, joy, and tradition displayed today are a testament to the strength and vibrancy of our community. I was honored to join in the dance and feel the connection with such inspiring women.”
The event was organized by the diligent efforts of Kamal Babra, who expressed her gratitude to everyone for their enthusiastic participation. “Tiyan Da Mela is not just a festival; it’s a way to connect generations, preserve our traditions, and foster friendships. It was wonderful to see the women come together and enjoy themselves so wholeheartedly,” said Kamal Babra.
Jatinder Paul, one of the key organizers, added, “This event reflects the spirit of our club – celebrating our roots while building strong, supportive connections in the community. The turnout and the level of participation exceeded all our expectations.”
Anuja Kabuli, who contributed to organizing the cultural performances, remarked, “The event was filled with joy and laughter, and it was a great reminder of how important it is to stay connected to our culture. The performances were spectacular, and the traditional food brought back so many memories for everyone.”
Closing the event, Jaswinder Daind, President of Flower City Friends Club, extended her heartfelt thanks to all participants and organizers: “We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this event a success. Your energy and enthusiasm helped make Tiyan Da Mela a true celebration of community, tradition, and togetherness. I especially thank our esteemed guest, Rowena Santos, for joining us and making the occasion even more memorable.”