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The next Konkani Sammelan is coming back to its birthplace in New Jersey after 16 years and we have the privilege to celebrate sweet sixteen of the Sammelan! It will be hosted at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center in Edison, NJ from June 29-July 1, 2012 (Fri-Sun). Please mark your calendars and save the dates.


The North East region was finalized for hosting the 2012 Konkani Sammelan only in May 2011. Since then, we have raced against time to put together a dedicated and motivated team of volunteers for organizing this mega event. The team's vision is to host the best Konkani Sammelan to date and provide all attendees with outstanding cultural and entertainment programs, seminars, authentic and sumptuous Konkani food, social and professional networking opportunities, youth and children events.

Edison, NJ is at the heart of Indian and Konkani community in the North East. It is approximately 25 miles south west of New York City. The area is serviced by three major airports; the nearest airport being Newark, NJ (airport code EWR). The NJ Convention Center is an ideal place for holding the Sammelan, as it is NJ's largest private venue with modern facilities to host big entertainment programs, meetings, vendor booths, and has a huge dining area. We have negotiated exclusive discounted rates with Sheraton and Hilton Garden hotels in Edison, which are near the Convention Center. Details on hotels in the vicinity, room rates, and how to make hotel reservations will be published on our website.


The theme for our Konkani Sammelan 2012, very aptly, is: "Connecting Konkanis, Heart to Heart, Home away from Home". The various Konkani associations in North America and events like the biennial Konkani Sammelan are indeed catalysts for us to connect with our fellow Konkanis, culture, traditions, language and of course to enjoy our food. For our children and the youth growing up in North America, and also for adults and seniors, the Sammelan promises to be a great cultural experience and retreat, home away from home. We are aspiring for and expecting around 2000 Konkanis under one roof for 3 days in this upcoming Sammelan. This in itself should make us all Konkanis very proud!


In 2012, as July 4th holiday in the US falls on Wednesday, we decided to hold the Sammelan on the earlier weekend, as this would give out-of-town attendees chance to take advantage of the short week ahead for extended vacation with friends and relatives or touring the incredible North East region. More information on nearby sight-seeing areas and tourist attractions will be published on our website.