The Handful of Bengalis of St. Louis was holding events since early 1980’s. As the 
number of families and events started to grow, the nonprofit organization PUNASCHA 
was incorporated and formalized in 1987. The name was inspired from Nobel Laureate 
Rabindranath Tagore’s literary work. PUNASCHA loosely translated means “repeat or 
new dimension”. We picked the name to signify the continuance of celebration of our 
heritage and traditions in our new home, St. Louis.
We strive to foster the indomitable Bengali cultural spirit, its deep rooted performing 
arts and literary heritage by involving our young ones in all events with us since they 
are toddlers, so the tradition continues.


We organize events regularly throughout the year to maintain the continuity of Baaro 
Mashe Taro Parbon theme that we grew up with. Starting with Saraswati Pujo, it goes 
on throughout the year that includes combination of Bangla Nabo Barsho and 
Panchishe Baisakh celebration culminating with Lakshmi Pujo. We also produce 
performing events with artists from USA as well as India.
We regularly participate in events sponsored by the Indian Association of St. Louis.
We hosted early Bango Mela and continue to participate in Bango Mela and Bango 
Sammelan throughout USA.

Community wise, our youth regularly participate in community outreach activities 
sponsored by us.
To encourage the literary giants in us and appreciate our young artists, we publish 
“Sagor Paare”, the magazine. It is a cornucopia of short stories, ballads, sonnets, non 
fictional essays and multi dimensional art work of the next generation.