"PUNASCHA" is a Bengali word which, loosely translated, means "addition of a new chapter or new dimension". Inspired by the title of a book of poems by the renowned Bengali poet, Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, we picked this name for our organization to indicate a new phase in a new country for all of our members. The foundation of this new facet was based on our old traditions and heritage. Thus Punascha was born in 1987. Goals Punascha has strived to cater to its members the spirits of Bengal's culture and religion, the melody of Bengali music and the richness of Bengal's literature. It is most attentive in bringing the younger members born in this country under its umbrella.

Steps to achieve the goals

To fulfil these goals, Punascha organizes religious festivals like Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja (worshipping of Goddesses), cultural programs celebrating Bengali New Year and birthdays of Rabindranath Tagore and Kaji Najrul Islam, another eminent son of Bengal. Punascha also publishes a biannual Bengali literary magazine offering a stepping stone for the creativity of its members. In addition to all regular activities, Punascha also, from time to time, produces cultural events with artists from other parts of United States and also from India.

The community

Punascha, a non-profit organization, has over 150 families as members who regularly join Punascha sponsored events at least five times a year. Some of them come from places as far away as Rolla, Columbia, Carbondale, Kansas City and Urbana-Champaign. Punascha represents the hopes and aspirations of all its members who are united by the common bond of Bengali heritage and American commitments.