Rochelle area residents have an opportunity to experience all things India at an event next Friday, June 8 at 5:30 p.m. at Hickory Grove.
The event, “India Night,” sponsored by the Rochelle Rotary, is also a fundraiser to provide needed desks for young students in Bhopal, India. Traditional dancing, music, Indian food, henna painting, games, and a silent auction are just some of the things that will be offered.
One of the event’s organizers, Dr. John Prabhakar, invites the community to come and enjoy and be immersed in the culture of India.
“Everyone is invited to take a peek into the wonderful India immersion experience through this window of opportunity,” he said.
Items available for the silent auction include several handmade bags from Bhopal, gift baskets, and a bottle of wine commemorating the Chicago Cubs World Series victory.
The room will be decorated with sarees, guests can try their hand at cricket and listen to the sounds and enjoy the tastes of India with tandoori chicken and samosas. There will also be Western appetizers available.
Indian music will be provided by Dr. Promod Vohra of DeKalb and Indian musical instruments by Anjali Patil of Sycamore.

There will also be other traditional Indian games such as the Game of Many Holes, and an Indian style Tic Tac Toe.
School desks
Rotary member Prem Sud explained the country of India has a wide socioeconomic range, with 50 to 60 percent of the population being poor. Rochelle Rotary members are partnering with Rotary International Foundation and the Bhopal Rotary on the school desk project, which will provide 1,500 desks to 4,500 students in Bhopal.
Each of the three partners will provide $15,000, combining to reach the goal of $45,000 the desks will cost.
The desks will be made in India.
“Even though the government provides resources to the students, some of those in certain areas, especially rural, don’t have school desks,” Sud said.
Rochelle Township High School’s Interact Club raised $2,500 along with funds donated by Rotary’s District 6420.
Tickets are $20 each or $25 at the door. Sponsored tables of eight are $160. Tickets are available at Rochelle City Hall, Central Bank, First State Bank, Stillman Bank, Holcomb State Bank, and members of the Rochelle Rotary Club. Checks can be made out to “The Rotary Foundation.” For more information, contact 815-757-0406.