The Indian Panorama

Tag: Ajay S. Patel

  • Bruhud New York Seniors Celebrate Diwali 2025 with Grand Cultural Event in Queens, NY

    Bruhud New York Seniors Celebrate Diwali 2025 with Grand Cultural Event in Queens, NY

    Ajay S. Patel, President of Bruhud, shared updates on the organization’s humanitarian initiatives.

    FLUSHING, NY (TIP): Bruhud New York Seniors, a non-profit socio-cultural organization serving the greater New York City area since 2009, celebrated its annual Diwali event at the Hindu Community Center in Queens. The grand celebration was attended by over 700 guests from across the tri-state area. The evening began with a sumptuous dinner, bringing together members and guests in a spirit of festivity and community.

    The event was graced by Chief Guest Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan, presided over by Mr. Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA. And Deputy Consul General Vishal J. Harsh.

    In his remarks, Mr. Ajay S. Patel, President of Bruhud, shared updates on the organization’s humanitarian initiatives. Following last year’s Diwali announcement, Bruhud successfully organized a free artificial limb fitment mega camp in Mahudi, Gujarat, in January 2025, benefiting over 500 individuals. With the support of Jaipur Foot, additional devices such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, tricycles, and calipers were also distributed to those in need.

    Prem Bhandari, President of RANA spoke on the occasion.

    Consul General Pradhan spoke about the opening of new Indian community centers in Edison, NJ, Columbus, OH, and Boston, MA, to better serve the Indian diaspora. He also emphasized that the Consulate, in partnership with Team Aid, now provides free assistance for the repatriation of remains for Indian passport holders.

    Mr. Bhandari highlighted India’s recent celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, noting his pivotal role in uniting the nation. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing India’s remarkable progress from the world’s tenth-largest economy in 2014 to the fourth-largest today.

    During the program, three distinguished individuals were honored for their outstanding service to the community:

    • Ashok Sancheti, President, Pioneer Gems LLC
    • Captain Pratima B. Maldonado, the first South Asian female Captain in the NYPD
    • Atit J. Thakore, Patel Brothers Group
    Presentation time. L to R: Ajay S. Patel, Prem Bhandari, Hon’ble Ladies, Consul General Binaya Pradhan, and Deputy Consul General Vishal J. Harsh.

    The evening featured vibrant entertainment by Swar Sarita and Indian Idol singer Khuda Baksh, delighting the audience well past 11:00 p.m. The program concluded with a parting gift presented to all attendees as a token of appreciation and festive goodwill.

    A view of the gathering.
  • Bruhud New York Seniors Organize a spectacular Diwali Celebration

    Bruhud New York Seniors Organize a spectacular Diwali Celebration

    • Acting Consul General Dr. Varun Jeph as Chief Guest and Prem Bhandari as keynote speaker graced the occasion

    FLUSHING, NY (TIP): Bruhud New York Seniors , a nonprofit organization serving the greater NYC area since 2009, held a spectacular Diwali celebration at the Hindu community center in Flushing on December 2, 2023.

    Bruhud New York Seniors officials and honorees with Dr. Varun Jeph and Prem Bhandari

    The event drew over 700 guests from the tri state area and was graced by Chief Guest acting Consul General. Dr. Varun Jeph, along with keynote speaker, Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA,. The two lauded the contribution of the Indian American community.

    Ajay S. Patel, President of Bruhud New York Seniors shared the vision of community unity, emphasizing Bruhud Seniors’ role in fulfilling this vision. He laid out Plans for 2024 which include a free artificial limb fitment mega camp in Ahmedabad and medical seminars in collaboration with Jaipur Foot USA.

    A view of the gathering

    The event honored a few community leaders and volunteers, which included, among others, Harish Thakkar, former President of AIA-NY, for their outstanding services.