I, Rajkumar Dhanaraj, Managing Director of Kompassion Kombucha, am honoured to take on the role of President of the Highland Indian Association (HIA) in 2024.

My vision is to amplify the presence and influence of the HIA as a cornerstone of multicultural integration in the Highlands of Scotland. The HIA proudly represents the ever growing Indian diaspora in this region. With over two decades of deep-rooted, grassroots community engagement, the association has evolved in tandem with the community it serves fostering a sense of belonging while preserving and celebrating our rich Indian heritage.

As we look to the future, HIA remains committed to nurturing the culture, values, and spirit of the Indian-Scottish community, and to building bridges of unity, inclusion, and celebration across all communities in the Highlands.

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A devoted volunteer of the Highland Indian Association, Saiju has been a consistent and committed presence for the past 15 years, deeply engaged in promoting cultural values and fostering community spirit.

Having called Inverness home for over two decades, Saiju is cherished for his warm, approachable nature and unwavering willingness to help others. Whether it's through his tireless service as an NHS Staff Nurse or his quiet dedication to community initiatives, Saiju embodies the true spirit of selflessness and support.

His presence is a steady source of strength and reassurance a true friend in need and a deeply valued member of both the HIA and the wider Highland community.

We, Dr. T. Reddy and my wife Uma, are the proud founders of the Highland Indian Association (HIA). On 22nd September 2001, we invited all Indians living in the Highlands to our home to share our vision and propose the formation of this Association. Our goal from the outset has been to foster a strong sense of community and togetherness among the Indian diaspora, while promoting and preserving our rich cultural heritage.

HIA was envisioned as a platform where multiple generations could come together, share their experiences, and celebrate the vibrant traditions that define our identity. Since its humble beginnings, HIA has steadily grown in size and stature, becoming a cornerstone of the Indian community in the Highlands.

Over the years, we have celebrated various socio-cultural events such as Diwali, Curry-Ceilidh, 20-20 family fun Cricket, and Onam, with great enthusiasm and success — except for an unavoidable pause during the COVID pandemic.

A little about ourselves: I have been serving as a Consultant Paediatrician at Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, since 2000. Uma has been a dedicated supporter of HIA’s activities and, together, we were instrumental in establishing the Inverness Inter-Faith Group in the Highlands. To build HIA’s profile, we developed strong ties with key institutions including the Consulate General of India in Edinburgh, Highland Council, Police Scotland, NHS Highlands, and other local community groups. We have had the honour of hosting dignitaries from the Indian High Commission, as well as Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities.

Uma served as a committee member in Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) and Victim Support Group for several years. She was one of the Founding members of International Women’s Group in Inverness. She played a significant role in establishing links with disadvantaged communities and volunteered to educate them in literacy and numeracy through Adult Basic Education.

We are blessed with two children, Avinash and Anusha, and now take immense joy in our three grandchildren — Rhea, Arin, and Theia.

The year 2026 will mark a significant milestone in HIA’s history — its 25th anniversary. Through the test of time, HIA has remained resilient and is now well-positioned to continue fulfilling its mission, with a clear vision for the future.

We, Dr. T. Reddy and my wife Uma, are the proud founders of the Highland Indian Association (HIA). On 22nd September 2001, we invited all Indians living in the Highlands to our home to share our vision and propose the formation of this Association. Our goal from the outset has been to foster a strong sense of community and togetherness among the Indian diaspora, while promoting and preserving our rich cultural heritage.

HIA was envisioned as a platform where multiple generations could come together, share their experiences, and celebrate the vibrant traditions that define our identity. Since its humble beginnings, HIA has steadily grown in size and stature, becoming a cornerstone of the Indian community in the Highlands.

Over the years, we have celebrated various socio-cultural events such as Diwali, Curry-Ceilidh, 20-20 family fun Cricket, and Onam, with great enthusiasm and success — except for an unavoidable pause during the COVID pandemic.

A little about ourselves: I have been serving as a Consultant Paediatrician at Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, since 2000. Uma has been a dedicated supporter of HIA’s activities and, together, we were instrumental in establishing the Inverness Inter-Faith Group in the Highlands. To build HIA’s profile, we developed strong ties with key institutions including the Consulate General of India in Edinburgh, Highland Council, Police Scotland, NHS Highlands, and other local community groups. We have had the honour of hosting dignitaries from the Indian High Commission, as well as Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities.

Uma served as a committee member in Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) and Victim Support Group for several years. She was one of the Founding members of International Women’s Group in Inverness. She played a significant role in establishing links with disadvantaged communities and volunteered to educate them in literacy and numeracy through Adult Basic Education.

We are blessed with two children, Avinash and Anusha, and now take immense joy in our three grandchildren — Rhea, Arin, and Theia.

The year 2026 will mark a significant milestone in HIA’s history — its 25th anniversary. Through the test of time, HIA has remained resilient and is now well-positioned to continue fulfilling its mission, with a clear vision for the future.

Shankar is a seasoned international telecommunications professional with over 35 years of global experience. With strong ties across all the southern Indian states, he has been a dedicated member of HIA since 2005. His deep understanding of the region’s diverse cultures, coupled with his unwavering commitment to community service, makes him a valuable asset to both HIA and the broader community.

.My name is Shanto George, and I’ve been a dedicated volunteer with the Highland Indian Association for over 12 years. With a deep passion for cultural engagement and community service, I strive to support others wherever I can. After calling Inverness home for the past 20 years, I’ve developed a strong appreciation for connection, tradition, and the quiet strength of community life. I take pride in being a reliable presence someone people can count on in times of need, always ready to lend a hand and stand by those around me.