Bringing Cultures Together Through Shared Traditions
At Colchester Indian Association (CIA), our mission is to protect and celebrate the beautiful traditions, culture, and heritage of India. We want to create a space where everyone feels included, connected, and proud of their roots. We believe that culture is more than just festivals or traditions — it’s about shared experiences that bring people together.
Our aim is to help the Indian community in Colchester and nearby areas feel at home, while also inviting the wider local community to join in and enjoy the richness of Indian culture. Through music, dance, food, festivals, and education, we create lasting memories and stronger community bonds.
Our work is rooted in kindness, unity, and mutual respect — so that everyone, no matter their background, feels welcomed and valued. At the heart of everything we do is a simple idea: when we come together, we all grow stronger.
A Community Where Everyone Feels at Home
Our vision is to build a community where people from all walks of life feel they belong. We dream of a place where Indian culture is not only kept alive but shared with joy, pride, and love.
At CIA, we believe that cross-cultural exchange helps people understand each other better. By bringing people together from different backgrounds, we hope to create a society that is respectful, supportive, and inclusive. We see ourselves as a bridge — connecting Indian roots with the values of modern British life.
Through every celebration, workshop, and gathering, our goal is to inspire connection, learning, and friendship. We want to build a community where people are not just welcomed but feel truly accepted. Our vision is simple — a stronger, kinder, and more united society, where traditions are respected and diversity is embraced.
Connecting People, Celebrating Culture, Serving Community, Spreading Kindness
At CIA, we organise events that bring people together and celebrate the richness of Indian culture. From the lights of Diwali to the colours of Holi, our festivals are open to everyone — helping locals experience India’s warmth, joy, and traditions up close.
We also support the community through educational workshops, social programs, and cultural activities. Our volunteers work passionately to raise funds for causes that matter — whether it’s helping local families or supporting global humanitarian efforts.
Everything we do is guided by the belief that “the world is one family.” That’s why we welcome people from all backgrounds to join us — not just to witness Indian culture, but to become a part of it. Through every celebration and act of kindness, we’re building a more connected, caring, and colourful community.
Get Involved
We welcome your involvement, whether you wish to volunteer, serve as a committee member, or support our organization through donations or annual memberships—there is always an opportunity for you to contribute.
Donors, Committee members and volunteers are the backbone of our festivals, seniors’ club, and all other community events.
Ways you can help:
Event Volunteers: Assist in organising and running major cultural events like Holi, Diwali, Navratri, and Independence Day.
Memberships and Donations: Membership and donations are powerful ways to support a cause, strengthen communities, and make a lasting difference.
Fund raising: Individuals with experience in running fundraising events and advising with backend applications for Charity grants.
Creative and Digital Help: Get involved with social media, photography, videography, or website updates.
Community Support: Help with our Seniors Club, youth engagement, and general outreach.
How Your Donation Helps
Every contribution, big or small, goes directly towards:
-
Community Events & Festivals
-
Community Support & Welfare </strong
-
Educational & Cultural Activities
-
Day-to-Day Community Needs
Membership & Event Info
-
Some upcoming CIA events may include a small entry fee, depending on the event type.
-
Membership fees help cover event logistics, venues, cultural programs, and operations.
-
Members can also make voluntary donations to support CIA’s long-term goal of creating a community space for cultural, educational, and social activities.
• Special discounts on future CIA events, including Navratri
• Discounts on CIA stalls (excluding Navratri)
• Priority access and early notifications for limited-entry events
30 Years of Culture, Connection & Contribution
Colchester Indian Association (CIA), formerly East Anglian Indian Association, is a registered charity (No. 1141594) run entirely by volunteers. Founded in 1996, CIA works to preserve and promote Indian heritage in Colchester and East Anglia, building cultural pride among the Indian community while fostering inclusivity across all backgrounds.
From vibrant celebrations like Diwali and Holi to performances of classical and Bollywood dance, CIA brings people together to experience the richness of Indian culture within modern British society. The association also supports local and global charities, upholding the Indian value of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family.
For nearly 30 years, CIA has remained a beacon of cultural unity, integration, and positive community impact.
Celebrating Our Impact
250+
Events HostedBringing the community together through festivals, workshops, and programs.
100+
Volunteers EngagedPassionate individuals giving time to uplift and support our mission.
30
Years of ServiceBuilding cultural pride and unity across generations since 1996.
