Purnima A. Desai has been promoting the beauty, goodwill, and tranquility of Indian art and culture in the USA for the last 35 years.A motivating and dedicated teacher in vocal and instrumental music, dance, languages, and Indian philosophy, Purnima A. Desai is the Founder and President of Shikshayatan Cultural Center and Sriniketan Foundation based in New York.
The two philanthropic organizations encourage and support Indian culture through music and art, as well as promote the beauty, goodwill, and tranquility of Indian art and culture
through educational workshops teaching children and women Hindi, violin, dance, poetry, and painting.
In 1988 Purnima founded her cultural organization – Shikshayatan, naming it after her alma mater. It was needed to impart knowledge about Indian culture to the young generation here who are deprived of the rich Indian heritage.
Shikshayatan is open to all nationalities to come together for peace, harmony, and team spirit. It has been offering lessons in vocal and instrumental music, providing a stage for young and old performers alike. She started in the basement of her home in Flushing, Queens.
Each year Shikshayatan showcases the talent of internationally renowned artists and recognizes their talent, contributions, and dedication to preserving the heritage of Hindustani Classical Music. At its Sangeet Mahotsav 2023, over 47 artists performed for 12 hours nonstop with a mesmerizing experience of healing ragas and classical dances.
During the Festival of Bliss on April 21st, 2024 the Manipuri dance will be performed by 11 artists (young and adults).
Purnima A. Desai (Vocalist and songwriter) and Suresh Ketwaroe (Vocalist and Guitarist) will be accompanied by famous tabla player Rabi Shankar Bhattacharjee.
