HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): In a night marked by celebration, cultural pride, and community spirit, the American Punjabi Society (APS) hosted its annual gala at the Pearl Banquet in Hicksville, Long Island, honoring distinguished businessman and philanthropist Harry Singh Bolla with the coveted Punjabi Ratan (Punjabi Jewel) Award. The event drew a distinguished gathering of political leaders, administrative officials, community stalwarts, and the crème de la crème of the Punjabi-American diaspora, underscoring APS’s standing as one of the most influential Punjabi cultural organizations in the region. The more prominent guests included the Consul General of India, Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan who handed over the award to Mr. Bolla, Sant Singh Chatwal, one of the two Patrons of the APS, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and Nassau County Republican Party Chairman Joseph Cairo.
Founded with the mission of promoting Punjabi language, culture, and heritage across generations, the APS has spent years cultivating a strong artistic and cultural presence on Long Island. Under the leadership of its President, Gary Sikka, and his committed team of volunteers, the organization has become a vibrant hub for community engagement, cultural programming, youth education, and charitable initiatives. This year’s gala, one of APS’s most successful events to date, reaffirmed the society’s role as a bridge between tradition and the evolving Punjabi-American identity.
A Fitting Recognition for a Philanthropist of Rare Generosity
The centerpiece of the evening was the conferral of the Punjabi Ratan Award upon Harry Singh Bolla, a self-made entrepreneur whose story has inspired countless immigrants. Rising from modest beginnings to building a thriving chain of businesses in the gas station and retail sector, Mr. Bolla’s journey is often described as a classic American dream narrative. Yet what truly distinguishes him, APS leaders emphasized, is not the scale of his success, but the depth of his philanthropy.
For years, Mr. Bolla and his wife Kamaljit Kaur—both devout Sikhs—have been major contributors to their local gurdwaras, supporting religious programs and community initiatives generously and consistently. “The first thing Harry did when his business began to grow was open his purse for charity,” said an attendee, noting that his humility remains intact despite his financial accomplishments.
A committed Republican, Mr. Bolla believes strongly in civic responsibility. He frequently asserts that once an immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, “America becomes your home, and its welfare becomes your primary duty.” This guiding principle informs much of his philanthropic work in the United States. Through the Bolla Charity Foundation, he has supported several American institutions, the most notable being his recent $1 million donation to modernize the Nassau County Police Academy—a contribution praised widely by county officials and community leaders alike.
A Heart Still Connected to Punjab
Despite his devotion to America, Mr. Bolla has never turned away from the land of his birth. Over the years, he has funded numerous welfare, educational, and community development projects in his home state of Punjab. His charitable spirit, he often says, is a legacy from his father, who is remembered in Punjab as a man of deep generosity and compassion.
This year, Punjab faced devastating floods that ravaged entire districts, leaving thousands homeless, jobless, and struggling for basic necessities. Moved by the widespread suffering, Mr. Bolla committed ₹5 crore—over half a million U.S. dollars—as an initial donation to assist displaced families. Speaking to The Indian Panorama, he expressed deep concern about ensuring that his contribution reaches those who genuinely need help. “My only worry is that every rupee benefits the deserving,” he said, adding that he is working with trusted channels to ensure a fair and transparent distribution system.
APS officials noted that in choosing Mr. Bolla for the Punjabi Ratan Award, the organization was guided not only by his financial success but by his humanity. “Harry Bolla embodies the best of us,” said APS President Gary Sikka. “He represents hard work, humility, success, and the Punjabi tradition of giving from the heart.”
A Night of Stars, Music, and Celebration
The gala was a grand affair, marked by elegance and vibrant cultural expressions. Political and administrative dignitaries attended in large numbers, lending the event a stature befitting its purpose. The ballroom resonated with Punjabi pride as community leaders mingled with elected officials and special guests.
Entertainment for the evening featured an engrossing musical performance by Pooja, a well-known and widely admired singer who enthralled the audience with a blend of classic and contemporary Punjabi melodies. The crowd erupted in applause as cinema star Neeru Bajwa—an international icon of Punjabi film—made a special guest appearance, surprising attendees and delighting fans.
The artistic program complemented the evening’s larger theme: a celebration not just of individual accomplishment, but of the collective strength of the Punjabi community in America.
APS Continues Its Mission
In his remarks, APS President Gary Sikka reaffirmed the society’s commitment to cultural promotion, youth engagement, and community solidarity. He praised the volunteers whose tireless efforts ensured the success of the gala and emphasized the importance of sustaining Punjabi language and values among younger generations.
“This award to Harry Bolla is not just about honoring one man,” Sikka said. “It is about reminding ourselves of what our community stands for—hard work, compassion, family, and pride in our heritage. Tonight, we celebrate all of that.”
The event concluded with a standing ovation for Mr. Bolla, whose humility shone through as he dedicated the honor to his family, his community, and the values that shaped him. For those in attendance, the evening was a vivid reminder of how cultural pride, service, and generosity continue to define the Punjabi-American spirit.
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