According to Oratorian Father Fabio Refosco, pastor, India Calling “is a vibrant celebration of Indian culture through authentic cuisine and captivating performances. The event is a sensory feast: the aroma of freshly prepared dishes, the rhythm of traditional music and the grace of dancers in colorful attire.”

Sabina Fernandez, event coordinator, explained that the festival came about from the hard work of more than a dozen Indian families and friends, parishioners and the assistance of the parish’s Catholic Social Teaching Ministry.

“On the night before the event, the kitchen at the parish is abuzz with excitement as Indian families gather to prepare meals for the guests,” she said.

Featured on the menu was a spicy, deep-fried chicken dish; jeera rice and curry; chole, or chickpea curry; naan, the leavened flatbread; and gulab jamun, fried dough balls that are traditionally prepared from milk and soaked in a sweet syrup that’s flavored with rose water and cardamom.

The rich traditions and culture of India are further showcased through dance, art and music.

Guests can try on sarees, the traditional outer garment worn by Indian women, or get henna “tattoos,” a reddish-brown, decorative temporary dye. There are also demonstrations and lessons for Indian Bollywood dance and a traditional dance called Dandiya Raas, dancing with bamboo sticks, a folk dance from the state of Gujarat.

Fernandez was quick to point out that India Calling is more than just music, art and food.

“This is a celebration of unity through diversity. It bridges cultures, brings people together and highlights the extraordinary strength of a community that embraces its differences,” she said. 

The Sikh religious community in Charlotte brought turbans and talked about their faith and why they wear the turban.

“Guests were invited to adorn a turban with feathers, beads and tassels,” she said. 

Father Refosco said the event “brought together not only Indian volunteers and artists but also members from various area churches, creating a truly immersive experience that nourished both body and soul.”

About 250 people attended this year’s event.

The initial idea started in 2019 after the Catholic Social Teaching Ministry held a potluck dinner to celebrate the different cultures represented within the parish. Fernandez and her husband, Austin, noticed that more and more Indian families were coming to Mass each week.

“Fueled by their desire to give back to the community that had embraced them so warmly, seven Indian families gathered together and planned an evening to showcase their delicious food, rich culture and heritage,” Fernandez said.

Thus, India Calling was born.

“It bridges cultures, brings people together, and highlights the extraordinary strength of a community that embraces its differences,” she said.

Maristela Lucas is a newcomer to Fort Mill who moved to South Carolina from Queens, New York, about a year ago. This was the first India Calling she attended.

“It was all so interesting,” she said. “The music and the dancing were great. And so was the dessert!”

Proceeds from India Calling support programs at Her Place, a transitional home for women experiencing homelessness in Rock Hill.

Fernandez is already envisioning the event in 2026, and said the parish looks forward to welcoming the community “for another unforgettable evening.” 

Learn more 

Visit saintphilipneri.org/get-involved/evangelization, or to learn more about Her Place, go to herplacesc.org.