OUR STORY
From informal gatherings to a lasting Indiana home.
From informal gatherings to a lasting Indiana home.
IMA grew from Malayali families finding one another in Indianapolis into a nonprofit forum for families across Indiana. Through cultural programs, Malayalam, art, food, service, and shared celebration, every generation can experience and carry forward Kerala’s heritage.
IMA grew from Malayali families finding one another in Indianapolis into a nonprofit forum for families across Indiana. Through cultural programs, Malayalam, art, food, service, and shared celebration, every generation can experience and carry forward Kerala’s heritage.
1990
Informal gatherings begin
Malayali families in Central Indiana began meeting informally, creating friendships and the roots of a shared community.
2000
A wider regional connection
The community allied with the Midwestern Malayalee Association, strengthening relationships beyond Indianapolis.
2004
A website and a language classroom
IMA launched its first internet site and formed the community’s first local Malayalam language class.
2005
IMA formally incorporated
A formal nonprofit structure created a stronger foundation for cultural, educational, social, and charitable work.
2006
iTouch and Kerala Day begin
IMA established iTouch to help a child or family with an immediate medical need, and Kerala Day began as its dedicated fundraising program.
2009
Serving the Needy
IMA’s local philanthropic initiative came to fruition, expanding the organization’s tradition of practical community care.
2016
A renewed identity and creative community
IMA introduced a new logo, launched a refreshed website, and started the IMA Music Club.
NOW
Culture carried forward
Events, youth participation, volunteering, outreach, and community partnerships continue to bring Kerala closer to Indiana.
1990
Informal gatherings begin
Malayali families in Central Indiana began meeting informally, creating friendships and the roots of a shared community.
2000
A wider regional connection
The community allied with the Midwestern Malayalee Association, strengthening relationships beyond Indianapolis.
2004
A website and a language classroom
IMA launched its first internet site and formed the community’s first local Malayalam language class.
2005
IMA formally incorporated
A formal nonprofit structure created a stronger foundation for cultural, educational, social, and charitable work.
2006
iTouch and Kerala Day begin
IMA established iTouch to help a child or family with an immediate medical need, and Kerala Day began as its dedicated fundraising program.
2009
Serving the Needy
IMA’s local philanthropic initiative came to fruition, expanding the organization’s tradition of practical community care.
2016
A renewed identity and creative community
IMA introduced a new logo, launched a refreshed website, and started the IMA Music Club.
NOW
Culture carried forward
Events, youth participation, volunteering, outreach, and community partnerships continue to bring Kerala closer to Indiana.