Indian

According to the 2000 census, there are approximately 4,600 Asian Indians living in the Richmond Region. Many of these individuals immigrated specifically for jobs in the technology or medical sectors while others began working in the lodging, food service and small business arenas after arriving in the United States.

The Indian Association of Virginia (IAVA) was organized to support and promote the cultural, socio-economic and ethnic needs and activities of Indians living in the Richmond Region. The organization's members include the various ethnic groups of Asian Indian culture such as Hindus, Tamils, Gujratis, Telagus and Punjabis. Each year, the IAVA sponsors cultural, social, humanitarian, educational and sports activities including cricket tournaments and an Indian Independence Day celebration for its members.

Every summer the Cultural Center of India sponsors the annual Taste of India, while each autumn the Hindu Center of Virginia hosts the annual Festival of India. Both events feature traditional Indian cuisine, music and dance as well as Indian crafts, jewelry and apparel.

Indian cuisine is as varied as the region from which it originates. If you're craving tandoori or biryani, there are half a dozen Indian restaurants in the Richmond Region, including Farouk's House of India, which has been serving Northwest Indian cuisine from its Carytown location since 1976. Click here to view our cultural festival sampler.

Additional Information

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