India Post News Service
American Telugu Association (ATA), a 28-year-old Telugu organization serving the interests of Telugu people across North America celebrated International Women’s Day weekend with much fervor and gusto. The celebrations were held on a grand scale in Washington DC, New Jersey, Delaware, Detroit, Nashville, Austin, Dallas and Raleigh areas.
Women’s Day theme concept of #BetterforBalance focused primarily on addressing the immediate needs and challenges of modern day Indian women and how to strike a balance between Eastern and Western cultures. Scores of saree-clad Indian women enjoyed the festivities across various cities. Fashion shows and thought-provoking discussions enthralled the audiences. Sumptuous lunch with various delicacies from both the Telugu states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana was served.
The International Women’s Day event in Washington DC included panel discussions with elite panelists from legal, medical, social, civic engagement and business areas to ignite a sense of awareness amongst women regarding work-life balance, legal rights, financial knowledge, health and family. ASHA for Women organization explained how women going through domestic violence can get help. Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton was the chief guest of the Event. Cultural Programs were the highlight of the evening and enthralled the audiences. ATA President-elect Bhuvanesh Boojala and his team spearheaded the event in DC Metro.
The event in New Jersey included seminars on homeopathy, yoga and business entrepreneurship. Immigration Attorney Prashanti Reddy was felicitated for her contribution to the Indian community, especially in matters related to the immigration issues.
In Dallas, prayers were offered to the fallen and wounded Indian security of the February 14 terrorist attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. Panel discussions were held on the causes of depression, addiction in kids and precautionary measures to be taken to avoid such situations. Awareness sessions on financial planning were conducted.
Raleigh doctors educated women about breast cancer menace along with statistics and mammograms, Organizers dedicated time to honor pioneering women and to discuss several serious issues women face on a daily basis. 
Prominent teachers of regional Indian languages were felicitated in Greater Nashville area. The Free for Life international organization shared details about worldwide human trafficking and funds were raised via silent auction for helping Women victims.
ATA President Parmesh Bheemreddy, along with Lt. Governor of Delaware Bethany Hall Long, inaugurated the event by lighting the lamp in Delaware. Bheemreddy congratulated women for their outstanding contributions to the society and said that ATA has always been a front runner in protecting women’s rights and believes in women empowerment. He said that he was proud that the current team has 25 positions held by women in various capacities and some of the past presidents were women as well. He encouraged and welcomed more participation of women in community-related activities. Past President Karunakar Asireddy announced that ATA is raising funds for girl empowerment projects in India. ATA executive team recognized the sponsors, and appreciated the local organizations and volunteers for their continuous support.
