FLORIDA NEWS
India in Full Color: VICAS Shines at SPIFFS Folk Festival 2026
Story provided by Rajiv Sahay
The 50th Annual International Folk Fair, organized by the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society (SPIFFS), turned England Brothers Park into a vibrant global village from March 5-7, drawing thousands from across Tampa Bay. Among the standout participants was VICAS (Volunteers of India Culture, Art and Science Society), which brought India’s rich cultural diversity to life.
Representing more than just a single culture, VICAS showcased the many traditions within India. Visitors enjoyed traditional games, colorful displays of regional attire, and the festive spirit of Holi. Live dance demonstrations and the ever-popular henna (mehndi) art attracted large crowds. A live cricket demonstration on also sparked strong interest among local attendees. Adding to the cultural experience, Kathputli dance — India’s traditional string puppetry — presented in the Indian village area, emerged as a unique folk attraction, delighting audiences of all ages.
Adding to the experience, the aroma of freshly prepared Indian cuisine drew visitors eager to sample authentic dishes — many for the first time — making the pavilion a hub of cultural exchange.
VICAS also delivered one of the festival’s most memorable stage performances, blending the classical elegance of Bharatanatyam with an energetic Bollywood medley.
Beyond the festival, VICAS continues to promote Indian heritage year-round through educational and cultural programs in the Tampa Bay community, fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Tanishq USA opens Stores in Orlando, VIRGINIA
Story provided by Tanishq
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Tanishq, India’s most trusted jewelry brand, recently opened its eighth and ninth U.S. stores in Tysons, Va., and Orlando respectively. The brand’s latest openings showcase its long-term vision for growth and cultural connection in key American markets marking a significant milestone in its North American expansion.
In Orlando, the 1,800-square-foot boutique is inside the Florida Mall and situated near the Primark entrance at 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail. Orlando was selected for its unique position as both a global destination and one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities. With millions of visitors each year and a strong South Asian population in the region, Central Florida offers an ideal setting for Tanishq to introduce its heritage craftsmanship to a wide and diverse audience.
Inside the new store, customers can explore more than 5,000 pieces, including exclusive collections curated specifically for the Orlando market. Highlights include the Heart Collection, Birthstones, and the Paper Clip Collection, alongside the brand’s signature gold, diamond and gemstone designs. The store offers jewelry for weddings, festivals, gifting and everyday elegance. The celebration here included ceremonial lamp lighting and live music. Setting a unique precedent, the ribbon cutting for the Orlando Tanishq store was conducted by all the women guests in attendance. Also present during the lunch was Arun Narayan, CEO, Jewelry Division, Tanishq.
“Orlando offered an opportunity to introduce Tanishq to a global audience,” said Amritpal Singh, Business Head, TCL North America Inc. “With its fast-growing population, thriving tourism and strong South Asian community, it’s an ideal market for our expansion. We’re excited to bring our craftsmanship and modern approach to Indian fine jewelry to Central Florida.”