Honoring Sreedharani and Mallur Nandagopal’s Lifelong Dedication.

For over four decades, Smt. Sreedharani and Dr. Mallur Nandagopal have quietly but powerfully transformed Spokane’s cultural landscape. I and many others have come to know this couple as “Aunty” and “Uncle” – honorific titles of respect not only through their long tenure in Spokane, but because of the instant familial connection felt by their hospitality. Through their vision, hospitality, and tireless volunteerism, they have brought the rich and ancient traditions of South Asia to the Inland Northwest — and in doing so, have created lasting connections across continents, generations, and communities.

Long before diversity and globalism became buzzwords, the Nandagopals saw Spokane not just as a place to live, but as fertile ground to cultivate cross-cultural understanding. They founded and have faithfully led the South Asia Cultural Association (SACA), an all-volunteer organization dedicated to introducing Eastern classical arts to Western audiences. In tongue and cheek delivery at these cultural programs, Aunty is ever keen to share that the then motto of the City of Spokane was “Near Nature, Near Perfect” and that SACA’s objective was to ensure Spokane was “near culture” too. Over the years, they have brought world-class Indian musicians, dancers, and drama troupes to perform in Spokane — often with little more than their own persistence, resourcefulness, and generosity.

But what has perhaps most defined their legacy is not only what they’ve built — it’s how they’ve welcomed others into it. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside them as a volunteer for SACA, and each time I’ve given my time or effort, I’ve been met with something far more meaningful in return: their unmatched hospitality. After an afternoon of setting up for a show or putting together publicity materials, I’d find myself sitting at their kitchen table with my family, enjoying lovingly prepared South Indian dishes that tasted like tradition — spiced with generosity, humility, and warmth.

Those meals weren’t just thank-yous. They were part of a deeper cultural rhythm that the Nandagopals live out daily — one that values service, community, and care. It’s further exemplified in the lives of their children and grandchildren who live out these values’ day by day. To be welcomed into their home is to be embraced by their mission: to bridge Spokane and South Asia not just through performances, but through relationships. I, and countless others over the years, have delighted in the rasam, saambar, idlis, dosas, and many other dishes served with such humility and good conversation.

Through SACA, they’ve partnered with the City of Spokane, Rotary, Spokane Arts, Innovia Foundation, local schools, and many generous individuals and other organizations to make their vision possible. They’ve introduced Spokane audiences to the ancient rhythms of mridangam and veena, to the expressive gestures of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi dance, and to the stories and values embedded in Hindu mythology. And always, their hope has been those attendees — whether South Asian or not — walk away feeling a little more connected to the wider world and to each other.

The Nandagopals’ legacy is woven into Spokane’s cultural fabric. For the comings and goings of the local Indian diaspora, they have been anchors and advocates. For curious Westerners, they have been ambassadors. For their friends and collaborators, they have been generous, wise, and steadfast.

In a world that often feels divided, Aunty and Uncle remind us that art can unite, that tradition has a place in the modern world, and that hospitality — a warm meal, a sincere smile, a shared story — is among the most powerful cultural acts of all.

"Thank you, Aunty and Uncle, for everything you’ve given. Spokane is richer, wiser, and more beautiful because of you."