The Indian Panorama

Tag: Abhishek Kumar

  • Makar Sankranti Celebrated with Great Enthusiasm by BJANA and Bihar Foundation USA (ETZ) at Toms River Temple

    Makar Sankranti Celebrated with Great Enthusiasm by BJANA and Bihar Foundation USA (ETZ) at Toms River Temple

    President BJANA: Ms. Priti Kashyap.

    Despite challenging weather conditions across New Jersey—with heavy snowfall in several areas and milder conditions near the venue—the spirit of unity and tradition remained strong as the Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA), in collaboration with members of Bihar Foundation USA – East Zone (ETZ), celebrated Makar Sankranti at the sacred Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, Toms River, NJ.

    More than 150 community members attended the celebration, demonstrating deep commitment to cultural traditions, togetherness, and community bonding.

    The newly elected BJANA President (2026–2027), Ms. Priti Kashyap, warmly connected with attendees and expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants. She also acknowledged the dedication of her committee members and the BJANA Advisory Board for their continued guidance and support.

    A Powerful Example of Community Spirit

    A touching moment was shared by Nidhi from Jersey City (originally from Patna) and her husband Raghavendra Singh (from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh). Although the temple was more than an hour’s drive from their home, they chose to attend their first BJANA event. They shared that the experience helped them truly understand how organizations like BJANA foster cultural connection, togetherness, and the spirit of selfless service.

    Community members joined the celebration.

    Several new members traveled long distances—including attendees from Philadelphia and locations over 100 miles away—reflecting the growing strength and reach of the BJANA community.

    Cultural & Culinary Highlights

    The celebration was enriched with traditional flavors and authentic delicacies, including:

    Chura–Dahi; Tilkoot directly sourced from India;  Khichdi served with special homemade curd prepared in traditional earthen (soil-crafted) utensils; Refreshing special chai prepared by the BJANA team.

    Children thoroughly enjoyed the festive atmosphere and food, while seniors deeply appreciated the warmth, hospitality, and nostalgic taste of traditional cuisine.

    The event became even more soulful when Nidhi Mishra and other community members led folk songs, devotional prayers, and bhajans, creating a deeply emotional and cultural environment.

    Community Leadership Reflections

    Temple Trustee Dr. Geeta Gupta thanked all attendees and emphasized that such cultural gatherings strengthen unity and help preserve cultural roots within the diaspora.

    Community leaders including Past President Shashi Sinha, Anurag Kumar, and Immediate Past President Sanjeev Singh encouraged members to continue working collectively to strengthen BJANA and uplift the community.

    Sanjeev Singh, Rama Mishra, Pankaj Sharan, Alok Kashyap, Alok Kumar, Abhishek Kumar, Sushant Krishen, Shashi Shankar, Pankaj P., Uttam Gupta, Shashi Sinha , Anurag Kumar, Dipen, Priti Kashyap, Dr. Geeta Gupta, Komal Sharan and Priti Singh, Anupam and Narendra ji.

    Alok Kumar, Chairman of Bihar Foundation USA – ETZ, expressed his happiness at seeing strong participation despite difficult weather conditions—especially the enthusiastic presence of children. He emphasized that communities must continue to support those in need, celebrate together, and build long-term unity.

    Event Organization & Acknowledgment

    The successful event was organized by the BJANA leadership team, consisting of Sushant Krishnan (Vice President), Rakesh Roy (Treasurer), Bishwanath Sharma (Secretary), Dipen,  Priya Ranjan Ji, along with the entire BJANA volunteer team.

    Their collective dedication made it possible to experience an authentic and memorable Makar Sankranti celebration in New Jersey—preserving tradition while strengthening diaspora bonds.

    (Based on a press release issued by Alok Kumar)

  • Bhagalpur’s Celebrated Maldah Mangoes Reach New York in First-Ever Direct Shipment

    Bhagalpur’s Celebrated Maldah Mangoes Reach New York in First-Ever Direct Shipment

    Collaborative effort led by Upajguru, Government of Bihar, APEDA, and Bihar Foundation brings India’s prized mango variety to the U.S.

    NEW YORK (TIP):  In a landmark moment for Indian agriculture and diaspora pride, the very first direct shipment of Maldah (popularly known as Langra) mangoes from Bhagalpur, Bihar has successfully arrived in New York City, USA. This historic initiative was made possible through the collaboration of Upajguru, an agri-supply chain innovator, the Government of Bihar, APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), and the Bihar Foundation USA East Coast Chapter.

    “It’s a dream come true,” said Mr. Ravi Soni, Founder of Upajguru. “Transporting a perishable fruit like Maldah mango across continents is no small feat. But with belief, technology, and community support, we made it happen. This isn’t just about mangoes—it’s about building bridges between farmers and global consumers.”

    Upajguru tending the mango trees.

    A Powerful Collaboration

    A basket of Bhagalpur’s celebrated Maldah Mangoes

    The successful arrival of these mangoes was the result of tireless coordination across institutions and borders:

    • Shri Nitish Kumar, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Bihar, and Shri Nitish Mishra, Hon’ble Industries Minister, for their forward-thinking support.
    • Shri Kundan Kumar, CEO of Bihar Foundation, for seamless coordination between Bihar and the diaspora.
    • APEDA, for ensuring compliance, certifications, and critical logistics that enabled international export.
    • Mr. Nimesh Rai, the dedicated farmer from Bharatam Vatika, whose orchard in Bhagalpur produced the mangoes with care and organic practices.
    • The U.S.-based support team of Abhishek Kumar, Lata Shree, and Bishwanath Sharma, who oversaw final delivery and local outreach.
    • Alok Kumar, Chairman of Bihar Foundation USA East Coast, whose vision and community mobilization were instrumental in bringing the project to life.

    “This shipment was more than fruit crossing borders—it was emotion, culture, and identity wrapped in every box,” said Alok Kumar. “After years of trying to get Bihar’s mangoes to the U.S., it finally happened thanks to the determination and dedication of Upajguru and every hand that helped.”

    Community Support Was the Key

    This effort succeeded because the Indian-American community—especially Biharis—stood behind it. Hundreds pre-ordered mangoes, supported logistics, and promoted the initiative across states. Even with increased transportation costs and the risks of spoilage, the community’s trust and enthusiasm helped make this trial a success. 

    What’s Next

    While this was a pilot run, its success has paved the way for future scale. Plans are underway to increase volume and improve the cold-chain infrastructure for the 2026 season. 

    A Salute to the Farmers

    Above all, deep gratitude goes to the farmers of Bihar—especially Mr. Nimesh Rai of Bharatam Vatika—whose devotion to the land and to their mango trees made this export possible. Their quiet dedication is now being tasted and celebrated halfway across the world.