When I last wrote about Madhu Bhasha Kendra ( Hindi has made it !(In Fremont, that is)), founder Madhu Aggarwal was in the process of setting up her own company after having taught at the India Community Center for some time. Since then the program has grown in strength, acquiring not just a stellar reputation but also a WASC certification. ( The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is one of six regional accrediting associations in the United States. The Commission provides assistance to schools located in California and other Western states.) Best of all, the Kendra’s after- school Hindi program is accepted for accreditation not just in Fremont but also Milpitas, Palo Alto, Saratoga, Cupertino, and Pleasanton.

This summer, Aggarwal has received a federal grant through the STARTALK program to teach a 5-week course in Hindi. This means that the summer program is completely free for high- and middle-school students.

The program is woven around a virtual tour of India. The students will plan for a trip to India to attend a wedding and will pretend to be staying with a host family. Through this scenario they will learn to interact with their hosts, vendors (for wedding purchases!), and transporation officials. The fun and practical program will also include wedding rituals like Mehndi and Haldi.

The summer program will be held in Mission San Jose High School in Fremont from June 25 to July 27, 2012 from 9:30 am to 1 pm. To get more details check out mbkhindi.org.