The Indian Panorama

Tag: Binaya Srikanta

  • FIA Hosts Star-Studded Bharat Beyond Borders Independence Gala at Cipriani Wall Street

    FIA Hosts Star-Studded Bharat Beyond Borders Independence Gala at Cipriani Wall Street

    NEW YORK (TIP):  Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) NY-NJ-CT-NE culminated its India Day celebrations in grand style with a spectacular Bharat Beyond Borders Independence Gala at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street banquet hall on the evening of August 17th. Bharat Beyond Borders  is a tribute to the global Indian identity. It celebrates the spirit of independence, excellence, and elegance that has transcended borders. This concept captures India’s timeless legacy and the modern Indian diaspora’s impact in every sphere: business, design, food, fashion, and thought leadership. Cipriani Wall Street majestic venue, renowned for its stunning Greek Revival architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for a night of elegance, unity, and vibrant celebration.

    Over 600 members of the Indian-American community, dignitaries, and esteemed guests gathered for this prestigious event. The gala shone with star power, welcoming distinguished guests including Hon. Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York; New York City Mayor Eric Adams; Shri Thanedar, U.S. representative for Michigan’s 13th congressional district; Indian Member of Parliament Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu; and the hugely popular Bollywood superstars Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, fresh from leading the India Day Parade as Grand Marshals.

    The evening was a feast for the senses. Attendees enjoyed a delectable and diverse traditional Indian menu, expertly curated and presented by Andaaz Restaurant, featuring what was hailed as the longest dessert table in New York City.

    Entertainment was a major highlight, blending cultures and stages. The audience was treated to captivating Indian dance performances, energetic Broadway-style acts, and the unexpected, lively rhythms of a live Mexican Mariachi band, showcasing the FIA’s embrace of global diversity.

    Bollywood superstars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna

    A deeply heartfelt philanthropic gesture marked the occasion, as Indian community leaders joined forces to donate 300 wheelchairs for differently-abled children in India, demonstrating the community’s commitment to giving back to their homeland.

    The gala also featured special video messages of goodwill from Hon. Senator Chuck Schumer and Hon. New York Governor Kathy Hochul, extending their greetings and congratulations for India’s Independence Day.

    The FIA NY-NJ-CT-NE Bharat Beyond Borders Independence Gala 2025 was more than just a dinner; it was a powerful testament to the community’s pride, cultural richness, philanthropic spirit, and influential presence on the global stage, beautifully concluding a day dedicated to celebrating India’s rich heritage and the enduring bonds between India and America.

    (With inputs from  a Press release from  Rohit Korat)

    Time for recognitions.
  • Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan takes over as India’s Consul General at New York

    Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan takes over as India’s Consul General at New York

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Ambassador  Binaya Srikanta Pradhan,  a career diplomat of the 2002 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, took over as Consul General of India at New York on January 15. He has succeeded Ambassador Randhir Kumar Jaiswal who has since taken over as Spokesperson at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA ) in New Delhi.

    Ambassador Pradhan’s  diplomatic career includes senior roles in Indian Embassies in Moscow, Turkmenistan, and Pakistan from 2004 to 2012. During 2012-14, he managed India’s relations with Afghanistan and Iran at the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi.

    Prior to the present assignment, Ambassador Pradhan was High Commissioner of India to Tanzania and Permanent Representative to the East African Community (EAC) from August 2021 to January 2024. During this period India- Tanzania relationship was elevated to ‘Strategic Partnership’ and the first  overseas campus of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras in Zanzibar, Tanzania was set up. From 2014 to 2019, Mr. Pradhan served as the Chief of Staff to the Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India. His international engagements extended to being the Deputy Chief of Mission in the Embassy of India, Moscow, from June 2019 to July 2021. Ambassador Pradhan demonstrates a keen interest in economic and energy diplomacy. He  is proficient in English, Hindi, Russian and Odiya languages.

    Beyond his diplomatic pursuits, he finds enjoyment in playing golf.  He is married to Ms. Monalisa and they are proud parents of two daughters, Dibyanshi and Diya.