The Indian Panorama

Tag: Diwali Stamp

  • Ranju Batra Reminisces her Struggle for Diwali Stamp: Says, Gone through the Worst Birth Pangs

    Ranju Batra Reminisces her Struggle for Diwali Stamp: Says, Gone through the Worst Birth Pangs

    By I.S. Saluja

    “At the very end of every struggle comes a precious reward that is worth all your blood, sweat and tears.”  ― Edmond Mbiaka

    Ranju Batra, Chair of Diwali Stamp Project, now also Chair of Diwali Foundation USA recalled with relish and pride the notification USPS issued on October 5, 2016. She showed it to  The Indian Panorama reporter who had visited her to know how she felt now that the Diwali stamp was two-year-old and was one of the hottest selling Forever stamps.

    The notification read: “The U.S. Postal Service commemorated the joyous Hindu festival of Diwali by dedicating the Diwali Forever stamp today (October 5, 2016). The first-day-of-issue dedication ceremony took place at the Consulate General of India in New York City.

    The public is asked to share the news using the hashtag #DiwaliStamp.

    “The Postal Service is honored to issue this Forever stamp that celebrates the Festival of Diwali,” said U.S. Postal Service Vice President of Mail Entry and Payment Technology Pritha Mehra. “We hope these stamps will light up millions of cards and letters as they make their journey through the mailstream.”

    Ranju speaking at the United Nations , December 11, 2017, on the occasion of giving away of “Power of the One” awards
    Photo / Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia

    An overwhelmed Ranju Batra had then commented: “While this journey may have taken years, the Postal Service has issued a Diwali stamp that will continue to resonate forever.”

    “Now for the first time there is a stamp that celebrates Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists as Americans forever. Our heartfelt thanks to all of those who have supported this stamp. The Diwali stamp will be a matter of pride for generations to come”, Ms Batra said.

    Her man, Ravi Batra, always supportive of his wife had said on the launch of the Forever Stamp on October 5 , at the Indian Consulate: “Since the start of the American Revolution, destiny has beckoned the United States and India to be the closest allies. The Diwali Forever stamp represents nothing short of respectful inclusive indivisibility: E Pluribus Unum — within America and between the two sovereigns.”

    Well, it is history. All that  the people now know is there is a beautiful stamp with a  lighted diya, symbolic of the most popular festival  of Diwali, and it fills Indians with pride and joy to have the kind of unique recognition of their culture in the US.

    Diwali is a festival to celebrate victory of good over evil, of virtue over vice. It is a day of celebration of unity, like the unified flame of the diya.

    Recalling her struggle for a Diwali stamp, Ranju said it was a grim struggle. At times, she felt frustrated. Even thought of giving up. But something in her told her to go on , and on, until the goal is achieved. And in this, support of her husband Ravi Batra made all the difference.

    Ambassadors, including India’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin, light the lamp to inaugurate the Power of One Award
    Photo / Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia

    Of the many meetings she had with a number of officials and politicians, she referred to the one in particular. It was  a meeting in Washington, D.C., with the USPS team, that had been facilitated by Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney two weeks before the dedication ceremony, Batra said: ‘They asked me, ‘You were saying all along that the stamp is going to sell a whole lot, do you still believe that so many stamps are going to sell?’ I said, ‘Of course’, and they also asked me if I’d be willing to sell stamps on their behalf.”

    She did, and by doing so, she created a history of sorts when she single-handedly sold 170,000 Diwali stamps.

    “No other stamp has sold as much on day one as the Diwali stamp in USPS’ 200-year history,” Batra said,  noting that the postal service does not authorize any single person or an entity to sell stamps on their behalf, but this was one of the exceptions.

    Batra said that in 2016, shortly after the stamp came out, she personally visited several post offices and requested them to display a sample at their respective offices.

    The Diwali stamps are here to stay, stated Batra, adding that she has initiated a drive to check the availability of these stamps at every post office in the country. Her goal, she said, is to keep the light of the Diwali stamp shining bright.

    “Two things are close to my heart, the Diwali stamp and Diwali holiday. I’ve already started working towards the holiday.”

    Recalling the more than two-decade-long uphill battle undertaken by several Indian American community leaders/members before her to get the approval, Batra said that she was told it was a lost cause since their efforts yielded no results.

    “I kept asking myself, ‘How is it possible that they are issuing other stamps but refusing to issue Diwali stamps when there are so many Indians and they are trying so hard?’ Then I found out they were trying the wrong way,” said Batra.

    In a meeting with the USPS officials, arranged by Maloney, Batra said she questioned them about what could be done to set the ball rolling.

    “They said, ‘Ranju, a postage stamp goes on paper.’ We were collecting signatures online. They could not care less. They want their stamps to be sold and we wanted our Diwali stamp.”

    She then enlisted the help of other community members/organizations – who had put in years of hard work into this campaign – and started working towards a common goal.

    “It wasn’t an online petition. We created paper petitions…it was going person to person, explaining them what we were doing, having their signatures, addresses…,” said Batra. “It wasn’t just Hindus or Indians. It was Christians, Muslims, Chinese, Koreans…Not a single person said they didn’t want to.”

    In her final petition, which featured images of stamps celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Eid, among others, she wrote: “We are very happy that you have issued all these stamps, and now it’s time for a Diwali stamp.”

    “I kept pushing them to issue a Diwali stamp,” said Batra. “And finally, they heard it.”

    Batra said that the Diwali stamp isn’t just a stamp, it represents something much larger.

    “I feel the Diwali stamp is not just a celebration of a religion or a nation, but it is the spirit of inclusiveness and cultural understanding that it represents. I’m happy to say that Diwali stamp is here, and it is here forever. This will be a matter of pride for generations to come.”

    “In this digital age, a small piece of paper called Diwali stamp celebrates the heritage of over a billion people. To me, Diwali stamp gives out a message of human unity and peace. I’d say Diwali has really put its stamp on America,” added Batra.

    Ambassador Lakshmi Puri (extreme left) , one of the recipients of the maiden award “Power of One” instituted by Diwali Foundation USA in collaboration with Belarus, Georgia and India, is seen with Ranju Batra, Ravi Batra, and UN diplomats, including India’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin
    Photo / Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia

    In 2017, Diwali Stamp made its way to the United Nations. On December 11, 2017, Belarus, Georgia and India joined with Diwali Foundation USA, as Co-Organizers,  to bestow “Power of One” Awards – essentially the “Oscars of Diplomacy” upon six exceptional diplomats: Amb. Maged Abdelaziz, Amb. Ion Botnaru, Amb. Lakshmi Puri, Amb. Matthew Rycroft, Amb. Nawaf Salam, & Amb. Yuriy Sergeyev.

    This historic event was co-sponsored by Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Botswana, Cyprus, France, Honduras, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Malta, Morocco, Republic of Korea, Romania, Slovakia, Spain,

    Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tunisia, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, Permanent Observer State of Palestine, and International Atomic Energy Agency-NY.

    Ranju takes legitimate pride in popularizing the already popular festival of Diwali, across the world, through the diplomats at the United Nations. I think, someday, the power of one -Ranju Batra-will be appreciated, recognized and saluted.

    Ranju has been variously and honored for her immense contribution. To add to many,  August 8th, 2018 was declared Ranju Batra Day in Westchester County by Westchester County Executive.

    (The author is the chief editor of The Indian Panorama. He can be reached at salujaindra@gmail.com)

     

  • The Diwali Stamp is a “shining tribute to the celebration of multi-culturalism”: Syed Akbaruddin

    The Diwali Stamp is a “shining tribute to the celebration of multi-culturalism”: Syed Akbaruddin

    UNITED NATIONS (TIP): Over 20 countries, including two UN Security Council permanent members- France and the UK– have supported a dedication ceremony hosted by India to commemorate the release of a Diwali postage stamp by the US.

    India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin said at the event, December 5, that the Diwali Forever Stamp is a “shining tribute to the celebration of multi-culturalism”. Noting that Diwali was commemorated for the first time this year at the United Nations, Mr Akbaruddin said the celebration of Diwali at the world body is a reaffirmation of the foundational objectives of the UN Charter and its purposes and principles, which stand as a force for universal good.

    “Though celebrated by different communities for different reasons, the essence of the (Diwali) celebration is the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness. Philosophically, the fight is not only external but also within oneself,” he said.

    India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said the celebration of Diwali at the world body is a reaffirmation of the foundational objectives of the UN Charter and its purposes and principles, which stand as a force for universal good.
    India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said the celebration of Diwali at the world body is a reaffirmation of the foundational objectives of the UN Charter and its purposes and principles, which stand as a force for universal good.

    The event lauded the efforts of Ranju Batra, Chair of the Diwali stamp project who spearheaded efforts for years to get the commemorative stamp issued, reaching out to the Indian-American community members and influential lawmakers, garnering support for the stamp.

    Ranju Batra, Chair of the Diwali stamp project who spearheaded efforts for 7 years to get the commemorative stamp issued said: "Today's celebration is not of a religion or of a nation but it is of the spirit of harmonious inclusiveness and cultural understanding that all religions deserve."
    Ranju Batra, Chair of the Diwali stamp project who spearheaded efforts for 7 years to get the commemorative stamp issued said: “Today’s celebration is not of a religion or of a nation but it is of the spirit of harmonious inclusiveness and cultural understanding that all religions deserve.”

    “The tens of thousands of paper petitions (for the Diwali stamp) were signed not only by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists but also by Christians, Jews, Muslims and every other faith and culture,” Ms Batra said, expressing gratitude for the support she got in her journey to get the stamp issued.

    Capping seven-year long efforts by the Indian-American community and influential US lawmakers, the US Postal Service (USPS) had issued the commemorative Diwali stamp to mark the festival of lights.

    Over 170,000 Diwali stamps have been sold, making history by becoming the number one best-selling stamp in USPS history.

    “Today’s celebration is not of a religion or of a nation but it is of the spirit of harmonious inclusiveness and cultural understanding that all religions deserve,” she said.

    Air India team led by its Regional Manager Vandana Sharma (4th from the right) with Diwali Stamp and Batras. Also seen are Regional Finance Manager Sangeeta Singh (5th from right), and District Manager Mohan Kothekar(extreme right). In a rare gesture of good will for the Diwali project, Air India promoted the sale of Stamp in a big way by gifting 10 return tickets to India for the raffle.
    Air India team led by its Regional Manager Vandana Sharma (4th from the right) with Diwali Stamp and Batras. Also seen are Regional Finance Manager Sangeeta Singh (5th from right), and District Manager Mohan Kothekar(extreme right). In a rare gesture of good will for the Diwali project, Air India promoted the sale of Stamp in a big way by gifting 10 return tickets to India for the raffle.

    Earlier, 20 nations had come together to support a special stamp dedication ceremony co-hosted by the Permanent Missions of India and Belarus.

    Eminent Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra said the event has being supported and celebrated by 23 nations, of which “12 are Christian, one Jewish, six Muslim… 23 nations spread across the world are celebrating not only the Diwali stamp but celebrating hope itself”.

    The 23 nations that supported the event include Armenia, Austria, Cyprus, France, Georgia, Honduras, Kuwait, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Ukraine, the UK and Vietnam.

    The Diwali Forever Stamp was formally launched by the USPS on October 5 at the Indian Consulate, New York in the presence of a large number of Indian Americans, some, like Shiv Dass from New York and Sante Chary from Dallas, TX who had initiated efforts long ago to have the Diwali stamp issued. Another person who made an effort at getting the Diwali stamp issued but failed for lack of political support for the project, the Indiaspora founder MR Rangaswami flew in from California to see his one time dream being realized, albeit by someone else.

    Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney who played a pivotal role in having the stamp issued, as also Congresswoman Grace Meng who had co-sponsored the House Resolution with Carolyn Maloney were present. Ravi and Ranju Batra praised Congresswoman profusely for her support. It was said again and again that Diwali stamp could not have been issued without the strong political support provided by lawmakers, led by Carolyn Maloney.

    Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney’s absence from the UN event was rather intriguing. More intriguing was absence of any reference to her contribution in getting the Diwali Stamp issued. Reminds me of Shakespeare.

    “But ’tis a common proof

    That lowliness is young ambition’s ladder,

    Whereto the climber upward turns his face.

    But when he once attains the upmost round,

     He then unto the ladder turns his back,

    Looks in the clouds, scorning the base degrees

    By which he did ascend.”

    (Julius Caesar Act 2, Scene 1)

    A view of the gathering of the world at the UN
    A view of the gathering of the world at the UN
  • A Renewed Push for Elusive Diwali Stamp

    A Renewed Push for Elusive Diwali Stamp

    Congresswoman Maloney calls on President Obama to support Diwali stamp on his upcoming trip to India; announces introduction of congressional resolution in support of stamp

     

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Congresswoman Maloney (NY-12), the Consul General of India in New York Ambassador Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, Chair of the Diwali Stamp Project Ranju Batra, and Chair of the National Advisory Council of South Asian Affairs Ravi Batra on January 16 gathered at the Indian Consulate to encourage the United States Postal Service to issue a postage stamp to commemorate the holiday Diwali. Maloney on Jan 14 wrote to President Obama urging him to support a Diwali stamp when he visits India next week.

     

    “Although Diwali holds a great significance for many Americans and well over a billion people across the globe, the United States Postal Service has still not recognized this beautiful festival of lights with a commemorative stamp, although it has done so for other major religious and cultural holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Eid,” said Congresswoman Maloney. “It is time for the USPS to step up and recognize the importance of this holiday in the lives of many of our citizens by issuing a commemorative stamp. A relatively small action would hold great meaning for millions of people and I think it would be historic if President Obama would announce his support for a Diwali stamp during his upcoming trip to India”

     

    ”Diwali is a festival that is integral to the life of every person of Indian ancestry irrespective of whether the person lives in India or abroad,” said Consul General Mulay. “It bonds together a billion people all over the world who celebrate the uplifting spirit behind the lighting of lamps – Diwali. The Diwali stamp by the United States shall definitely add to the already existing good will and strengthen the relations between our two countries. The laudable effort by Ranju Batra and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, and all others of goodwill supporting this focused effort, is a welcome gesture that is bound to bring cheer to everybody invested in the India-US relationship.”

     

    “We have gathered thousands upon thousands of signatures, letters and petitions, said Ranju Batra. “Apparently, what we have done so far has not been enough to get the Diwali Stamp issued. We are going to continue our efforts, with grassroots’ support, and won’t stop until we get it.”

     

    “USPS can no longer ignore Hinduism and the calls for a Diwali Stamp from the Hindu community and our dear friend and champion, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney,” said Ravi Batra. “This year, the Diwali Stamp will be approved – US Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe has to be reminded that they are currently in violation of a core Constitutional obligation of government – ‘Equal Protection of the Law.’”     

     

    Shiv Dass, President of Jackson Heights Indian Merchants’ Association recalled his effort in 2003 to have a Diwali stamp issued. He said his friend Congressman Joe Crowley had tried to have the stamp issued but the effort proved abortive. He said he was happy that Ranju Batra had revived the demand and Congresswoman Maloney and community leaders were supportive of the demand. He appreciated the  role of Ambassador Mulay in encouraging the community to come together in support of Ranju Batra and Congresswoman Maloney.

     

    On January 14, 2015 Congresswoman Maloney introduced H. Res. 32, urging the USPS to issue a commemorative holiday stamp for Diwali. For several years, Congresswoman Maloney has headed efforts in Congress to push the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) to consider issuing a commemorative Diwali stamp. In 2013, Congresswoman Maloney introduced H.Res. 47, expressing the sense of the U.S. House of Representatives that the CSAC should issue a Diwali stamp. The bill had 46 cosponsors. Maloney wrote letters to the CSAC in 2010 and 2012 requesting the same action.

  • Ranju Batra bestowed The 2014 Beacon of Leadership Award

    Ranju Batra bestowed The 2014 Beacon of Leadership Award

    Rep. Yvette D. Clarke presented to Ranju Batra, August 26, The 2014 Beacon of Leadership Award. Rep Clarke was effusive in her remarks about Ranju’s dedication and contributions to New York and the United States and celebrated her for the same. Ranju, during the event asked and secured Rep. Clarke’s commitment to support the Diwali Stamp and House Resolution 47 introduced by Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney – at Ranju’s request.

  • Diwali 2013 Celebrated at Indian Consulate

    Diwali 2013 Celebrated at Indian Consulate

    Ambassador Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, Consul General of India in New York celebrated Diwali on November 17, 2013 with Ranju Batra, chair of the Diwali Stamp Project and president of Association of Indians in America-NY 2011 -2013, New York State Controller Tom DiNapoli, Ravi Batra, Ambassador Manjeev S. Puri, New York City Council Member Inez Dickens, many Supreme Court Justices, and distinguished members of the community.


    8

    Manjeev S. Puri, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the UN (extreme right) also participated. Other in the picture, from L to R: Ranju Batra, Tom Di Napoli, Ravi Batra, Ambassador Mulay and Manjeev S. Puri

  • Council Member Daniel Dromm leads demand for Diwali as School Holiday

    Council Member Daniel Dromm leads demand for Diwali as School Holiday

    NEW YORK (TIP): Council Member Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights, Elmhurst), along with several elected officials and community members, are demanding that the Department of Education designate the Hindu, Jain, Buddhist and Sikh holiday of Diwali as an official day off for public school students. “There are tens of thousands of public school students in New York City who celebrate Diwali,” CM Dromm said. “These students must pick between attending class or spending the day with their families, while students in the Christian and Jewish faiths do not have to make this decision when they celebrate holidays like Rosh Hashana and Christmas. There shouldn’t be this discrepancy. I urge the Department of Education to recognize this important holiday called Diwali.” “I would like to wish all New Yorkers a safe and happy Diwali,” state Senator Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) said. “With the South Asian population growing quickly in my district and across the city, more and more parents unfortunately have to make the tough choice between celebrating an important holiday or sending their children to school.

    I urge the City Council to strongly consider Council Member Dromm’s resolution to designate Diwali as a public school holiday. As New Yorkers and Americans what makes us special is our commitment to respecting new customs and I hope that the Council can follow through on this commitment for the over 200,000 Diwali celebrants that live in our great city.” “Diwali is one of our community’s key celebrations, and is deserving of the same respect from our school system as other religious days,” Assembly Member Michael Den Dekker (D-Jackson Heights) said. CM Dromm introduced a resolution to the City Council on July 24. Since then, 15 Council Members have signed on as cosponsors and several state elected officials have voiced their support. Diwali or Deepavali, known as the festival of lights, wherein millions of celebrants worldwide light lanterns to symbolize inner light to dispel ignorance and darkness, is a five-day festival that begins on the 13th day of the Hindu month of Kartik. It is the most important festival on the Hindu calendar.

    For Sikhs, Diwali is the day the Mughal Emperor released Hargobind, the revered sixth Guru, from captivity. For Jains, Diwali marks the anniversary of the attainment of moksha, or liberation, by Mahavira, who was the last of the Tirthankaras, or the great teachers of Jain dharma. Some Buddhists celebrate Diwali to commemorate the day King Ashok converted to Buddhism. According to the Census Bureau’s 2011 American Community Survey, there were 207,414 New York City residents who identify themselves as Asian Indian, of which many are adherents of Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism or Buddhism. Despite the large number of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists in New York City, Diwali is not recognized as a school holiday in the city’s public school system. The DOE closes for Christmas, Rosh Hashanah and Easter. Those who celebrate Diwali should be given the same respect. “To me, Diwali’s message of ‘Light over Darkness’ means eliminating ignorance and discrimination of every kind. Diwali’s row of diyas is very significant. It is the row of diyas, their unity and unified light that beats the darkness – not one diya alone. Its togetherness – Diwali’s hidden message of necessary unity,” said Ranju Batra, Chair of the Diwali Stamp Project and President of Association of

    Indians in America-NY 2011-2013. “I celebrate Council Member Daniel Dromm and his Diwali School Holiday Resolution, and ask all good people to support it.” “Danny Dromm’s Diwali School Holiday Resolution 1863 is an American landmark to be achieved on the road to forming ‘ . . . a more perfect union.’ It is E Pluribus Unum in action. I call upon Mayor Bloomberg or the next Mayor to have the DOE observe Diwali as a school holiday, so that New York City’s principled action is followed across our land, in every town and city across America, and ‘equal protection of the law’ becomes a sweet reality. Danny Dromm is an American hero,” said Ravi Batra, attorney and chair of National Advisory Council on South Asian Affairs. “Chhaya CDC is very happy to support these efforts to make Diwali an official holiday in the city’s public schools,” said Seema Agnani, Executive Director at Chhaya CDC. “This is one of the more important holidays that is celebrated by millions across the globe. Chhaya also closes its doors on this day to mark the occasion so staff can celebrate with their families and friends. We are so lucky to have so much diversity in New York City and making Diwali an official holiday will serve to increase awareness about the communities here that celebrate the holiday.” The federal government has slowly given the important holiday more respect.

    In 2007, the United States House of Representatives passed a resolution recognizing the religious and historical significance of Diwali, and since 2009, the White House has held an annual Diwali celebration. The United States Postal Service has recently decided it will issue a Diwali commemorative stamp. On the city level the significance of Diwali is acknowledged by suspending alternate side parking rules on Lakshmi Puja, the third and most important day of the holiday. For years the Muslim community has petitioned that the important holidays of Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr be a day off for public school students, but in 2009 a City Council approved resolution was not signed by Mayor Bloomberg. This year Diwali will be celebrated on Sunday, Nov. 3. Next year, the day falls on Oct. 23, a Thursday, and in 2015 on Wednesday, Nov. 11. In Jackson Heights, the community celebrated Diwali last Sunday on 74th Street, the heart of Little India in New York City. Council Members Inez Dickens, Charles Barron, Margaret Chin, Leroy Comrie, Vincent Gentile, Letitia James, Peter Koo, Karen Koslowitz, Rosie Mendez, Annabel Palma, Donovan Richards, Deborah Rose, Ydanis Rodriguez and Daniel Halloran support the resolution.

  • Diwali, “the Timeless Festival of Lights” comes to Times Square

    Diwali, “the Timeless Festival of Lights” comes to Times Square

    NEW YORK, NY: Come September 22nd and “Celebrity appearances, musical performances, Asian Indian Cuisine, ethnic Indian dances, fashion show and a “Light Up Times Square” concert will be the highlights of the first ever Diwali at Times Square, New York”, said Ms Neeta Bhasin, President of ASB Communications who have conceptualized and are managing the mega event. She was speaking at a press conference organized by Event Guru and ASB Communications at the up end The Atelier- Sky Lounge August 29th.

    The Consul General of India in New York, Ambassador Dnyaneshwar Mulay and the principal sponsors of the Times Square Diwali, Air India Regional Manager for Americas, Mr. Riwo Norbhu, MoneyGram Senior Marketing Manager Ms Zainab Ali, and Mr. Dinesh Kamble, Senior Manager at Maharashtra Tourism joined Neeta Bhasin at the press conference which was attended by a large number of media persons from both the print and electronic media, and a select gathering of the Indian American community’s best faces. Welcoming them all and introducing the sponsors, Neeta said that she was greatly impressed by the Maharashtra Tourism department which took just seven days to agree to become the title partners.We have, therefore, christened the Times Square Diwali as “Maharashtra Tourism (Mumbai) Diwali at Times Square”. “Air India”, she said, “are our valuable presenting partners”.

    She introduced Zainab Ali of MoneyGram as “our constant partners in all ventures” and thanked all sponsors present and those who were not around, including Bank of Baroda, Wells Fargo and “many others”. The CE of Bank of Baroda, Mr. Dhimant P. Trivedi could not make it to the press conference but was mentioned by Neeta as one who has always been supportive of every community event. Speaking on why she chose to have Diwali at the Times Square, Neeta said that she was keen to showcase India’s rich heritage and culture to the mainstream in America. “And what other place better that the Center of the World-the Times Square!” she said. Times Square, she said, attracts on an average 350,000 pedestrians each day. Neeta said she felt the need and urge to organize an event that would make the mainstream take notice of the Indian American community which has given to America the second largest group of professionals. “Unfortunately, despite our strengths and contribution, we, the Indian Americans, have not received the kind of recognition from the mainstream as Indians in U.K. or Australia.

    Diwali at Times Square is an attempt at the legitimate recognition of the Indian American community.” Outlining details of the Diwali celebrations on September 22nd when “every Indian American will own Times Square for the day”, Neeta said the event will take place from 11 A.M. to 6 P.M., followed by the “Light Up Times Square” Concert which will showcase live performances from some of the biggest names in Bollywood. “The concert will also feature a breath-taking laser light show”, she disclosed. Inviting the Indian Americans to the history-making event, being the first ever Diwali at the Times Square, Neeta exhorted them to “come in traditional outfit and be the proud owners of Times Square for the day.” A message from Maharashtra Minister for Tourism, Mr. Bhujbal was screened at the press conference. The Minister welcomed all and said, “I thank everyone for being present here for the curtain raiser of Maharashtra Tourism (Mumbai) Diwali at Times Square.” He found many similarities between New York and Mumbai. He said if New York was America’s financial capital, Mumbai was India’s financial capital. Both cities are cradles of diverse cultures, he said. Speaking about the state of Maharashtra, Mr.

    Bhujbal described it as a large state with varied topography and enormous scenic beauty. He added that the state was rich in heritage and was a repository of age old culture. In fact, there were four world heritage sites in Maharashtra that included Ajanta, Ellora and Elephanta. One of the most favored tourist destinations, the state, he said is “one of the most developed states of India”. He extended invitation to the gathering to come and holiday in Maharashtra. He said he was happy to have a global platform in the shape of Times Square in New York to showcase the state of Maharashtra, its variety and richness of heritage and culture. Ambassador Mulay, a scholar, writer and poet, besides being an ace career diplomat, spoke of the 5000 years old civilization of India and how over the centuries India absorbed different cultures and grew richer and more diverse. He also spoke of the geographical diversity of India; The Himalayas in the North, the plains, and the seas to the East, the West and the South. Speaking about Diwali, Mr. Mulay said, “Diwali is the king of all festivals. Despite religious connotations, Diwali is a secular festival, the most representative festival of India”. He gave a great description of the event when he said it would be appropriate to say “the Timeless festival comes to Times Square”. Mr. Mulay had a word of appreciation, bordering admiration, for America and New York. ” The beauty of the US is that it is always able to institutionalize.

    New York is a place of meeting, meeting and greeting- a rendezvous. Diwali, too, is a festival of meeting and greeting”, Mr. Mulay said. Appreciating the organizers’ vision, Mr. Mulay said, “It is not only a good idea but a great idea” and added that the event will be “a great celebration of growth of India and growth of Indian American diaspora”. “1.2 billion hearts will throb to see Diwali being celebrated at the Times Square”, he said and called upon all Indian Americans to “participate in full vigor”. On the occasion, he also recalled how Ranju Batra, who was also present, has been making strenuous and constant effort to have a Diwali commemorative stamp issued by the US Postal department and hoped “we will see the Diwali stamp this Diwali”. Air India Regional Manager for Americas Mr. Riwo Norbhu who seemed to believe in the dictum “Brevity is the soul of wit” said, “At Air India we all are very proud to celebrate Diwali at Times Square”. MoneyGram Senior Marketing Manager Zainab Ali who was in a hurry to catch a flight to LA, made a brief remark. She said, “MoneyGram has been part of many community celebrations.When my friend Neeta broached the subject I felt it was a great idea. I have never seen a person who worked as hard as Neeta to see that the idea takes a shape. Her effort will see 1.2 billion Indians in India celebrating Diwali at Times Square. MoneyGram will be happy to support her now and always”. All eyes are now turned to September 22nd.

  • Petitions Supporting A Commemorative Diwali Stamp Presented To Deputy Postmaster General

    Petitions Supporting A Commemorative Diwali Stamp Presented To Deputy Postmaster General

    WASHINGTON, DC (TIP): Reps. Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), Ami Bera (D-CA), Grace Meng (D-NY) and representatives of the Indian- American community today presented Ron Stroman, Deputy Postmaster General, with petitions signed by thousands of supporters of a commemorative stamp honoring the Indian holiday Diwali.

    Maloney is sponsor, and Reps. Meng and Bera are cosponsors of, H. Res 47, a resolution which requests that the U.S. Postal Service issue a commemorative U.S. stamp in honor of the Indian holiday Diwali, the five-day “festival of lights,” celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world. “Today’s meeting with the Deputy Postmaster General is another important step on the road to a Diwali stamp,” Rep. Maloney said.

    “I am optimistic that the Citizens Stamp Advisory Commission will respond favorably to the 1300 signatures presented today, and the 400,000 signatures presented in the online campaign.” “I appreciate Deputy Postmaster General Stroman meeting with my colleagues and me today to discuss the US Postal Service issuing a Diwali stamp,” said Rep. Bera. “Introducing a Diwali stamp makes business sense, giving the USPS more revenue at a time when it’s sorely needed, and is also the right thing to do, giving this holiday-and the India American Community-the equal recognition that it deserves.”

    “The Postal Service has issued stamps for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Eid and now it’s time for one to honor Diwali,” said Rep. Meng. “Diwali, the festival of lights, is observed by 1.2 billion people in over 120 countries including the United States and India. These include thousands of constituents who reside in my district which includes one of the largest South Asian populations in the country.

    Issuing a stamp would be an outstanding way to salute the tremendous contributions of Hindu and Indian Americans, and it would give Diwali the recognition that it deserves. I thank the Deputy Postmaster General for meeting with us and we will continue to keep up the fight.” Ranju Batra, chair of Diwali Stamp Project, said “I’m truly excited by today’s meeting with Deputy Postmaster General Stroman. Rep. Carolyn Maloney’s durable national leadership is bearing fruit.

    I’m also grateful for the support of Rep. Grace Meng along with Rep. Ami Bera for attending today. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has worked hard to support Carolyn’s HR47. I was delighted to have the letter-petitions presented to DPMG Stroman and have Carolyn read out loud Ambassador Mulay’s poem, ‘Towards Diwali Stamp,’ now the official poem of the Diwali Stamp Project.We are closer than ever before, and we will not stop until our Diwali Stamp is issued.

    ” Ravi Batra said, “Ron Stroman is a serious public official, who comprehends the compelling need to issue the Diwali Stamp, consistent with CSAC’s necessary merit-driven independent judgment, and I applaud Carolyn Maloney’s tireless leadership and Ranju’s limitless work ethic in driving the Diwali Stamp to critical mass – with scores of members of congress supporting, including Tulsi and Ami – and now an official poem too.

    When the USPS decides, sooner rather than later, to issue the Diwali Stamp ‘E Pluribus Unum’ shall include Hindu-Americans too.” As part of the campaign for the Diwali stamp, Maloney asked Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, the Consul General of India in New York, to write the following poem, “Towards Diwali Stamp” in support of the campaign: “Towards Diwali Stamp” Brighten up the world Light up the nearest Lamp Stamp out clouds of darkness Bring in the Diwali Stamp.

  • Congresswoman Maloney’s Push For Diwali Commemorative Stamp – A Laudable Effort

    Congresswoman Maloney’s Push For Diwali Commemorative Stamp – A Laudable Effort

    Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney deserves gratitude of the entire Indian American community for her principled and laudable support for a Diwali commemorative stamp. Maloney has spent quite some years now to get the stamp used. Rightly has she reminded the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) of the United States Postal Service (USPS) that there should be no hitch in issuing a Diwali stamp when the USPS has already issued commemorative stamps for holidays like Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza and Eid.

    She has driven home to the USPS that Diwali is one of the oldest holidays in the world , celebrated by over one billion Indians throughout the world, including the three million who live in the United States. In January, 2013 Maloney introduced in the House of Representatives H. Res 47 to call on the CSAC to acknowledge the three million Indian Americans in the United States by issuing a commemorative stamp.

    The resolution enjoys bi-partisan support and has 11 cosponsors. It has been referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, on which Maloney sits as a senior member. The Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) of the United States Postal Service (USPS) will meet on July 28 to consider issuing new stamps. It will help the Congresswoman if the Indian American community reached out to lawmakers in their constituencies to enlist their support for Maloney’s resolution.

    Let no effort be spared to have the Diwali stamp issued on the occasion of 2013 Diwali. It surely will be a very satisfying and fulfilling achievement for the entire Indian Diaspora. So, resolve today to give Maloney’s effort a powerful push.

  • Congresswoman Maloney Seeks A Diwali Stamp: CG Calls For Community Support

    Congresswoman Maloney Seeks A Diwali Stamp: CG Calls For Community Support

    NEW YORK (TIP): Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney spoke before the Consul General of India, in New York, July 8 to urge members and leaders in the Indian American communities to continue supporting an effort to get the Citizen’s Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) of the United States Postal Service (USPS) to issue a commemorative Diwali stamp. “It is high time the USPS issues a Diwali stamp.

    Diwali, also known as the Holiday of Lights, marks the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and the beginning of the Hindu New Year. It is one of the oldest and most storied religious holidays in the world, and is celebrated by people of several faiths. There are commemorative stamps for Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid and more. Issuing a Diwali stamp would officially recognize the size and significance of the country’s Indian American population, which comprises over three million people, and would provide the USPS with sorely needed revenue,” Maloney said.

    For several years, Maloney has headed efforts in Congress to push the CSAC to consider issuing a commemorative Diwali stamp. In January, Maloney introduced H.Res. 47 that the CSAC should issue a Diwali stamp. She wrote letters to the CSAC in 2010 and 2012 requesting the same action. Ranju Batra, a former President of the Association of Indians in America – NY, who attended the event at the Indian Consulate, is a close friend of Congresswoman Maloney and was a major catalyst in the effort to get the Diwali stamp issued.

    She asked that Congresswoman Maloney provide national leadership on the effort, and Congresswoman Maloney obliged her request by remaining strongly dedicated to the issue. Aside from the cultural significance of the Diwali stamp, there are economic benefits associated with its issuance. There are over 3 million Indian Americans residing in the United States and over 1 billion Indians living in India.

    The sale of the Diwali stamp could provide the USPS with a much-needed revenue surge. The meeting was held to urge supporters and members of the Indian American communities to contact their members of Congress and the CSAC and express support for the issuance of a Diwali stamp. Speaking on the occasion, Ranju Batra said, “When I took over as president of AIANY, I set two goals: To make the 25th Silver Diwali celebrations history-making, and they were, and to laser-focus on getting the Diwali Stamp issued.

    I asked my dear friend Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney to take the lead in Congress. I am so delighted to have the support of Reps. Eliot Engel, Steve Israel, Greg Meeks, Yvette Clarke, Grace Meng, and others. Worthy of special note is the support from Reps. Ami Bera and Tulsi Gabbard. The time is now to get as much support as possible, as the USPS’ CASC will make its recommendations later this month.

    We need each of you and every media outlet to help get the word out: call your Congress member and ask them to sign on to H. Res. 47 now. If we do this, together, we have the chance to get the Diwali Stamp issued this year,” said Ranju Batra, Chair of the Diwali Stamp Project and immediate past President of the Association of Indians in America-NY.

    “The target audience of the Diwali stamp is over 5 million Americans of South Asian and Caribbean ancestry, along with over 1 billion Hindus across the world. The sale of Diwali Stamps would be a much-needed source of revenue for the US Postal Service in tough economic times. It will reduce the Postal Service’s need to always raises postage rates for everyone, while finally acknowledging Hindus here at home and abroad,” said Ravi Batra, an attorney and chair of the National Advisory Council on South Asian Affairs.

    “This laudable initiative by Ms. Ranju Batra seeks not only to embellish the great American democracy in its embrace of pluralism and diversity but also because Diwali commemorates civilizational values of respect for women’s rights and their empowerment which the United States also tries to advance everywhere. On the occasion of Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi — symbolizing prosperity and well-being of humanity — is worshiped, as is the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, which she brings about, is celebrated.

    I wish Ranju and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney every success in their endeavor, which will not only strengthen the cultural and people-to-people links between the democracies of India and United States, but also mark their dedication to the cause of gender equality and women’s empowerment,” said Lakshmi Puri, Acting Executive Director of UN Women.

    Mr. D. Mulay, the Consul General of India in New York lauded the efforts of Ranju Batra and Congresswoman Maloney and stated that Diwali is a secular festival celebrated by all Indians and it will be appropriate for the US Postal department to issue a Diwali commemorative stamp. He appealed to the Indian American community to support the Diwali stamp initiative of Ranju Batra and Maloney.

  • U.S. Reps. Maloney And Meng, Leaders Of South Asian Communities Rally Support

    U.S. Reps. Maloney And Meng, Leaders Of South Asian Communities Rally Support

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): CongresswomanCarolyn Maloney (D-Manhattan andQueens) joined Congresswoman GraceMeng (D-Queens) and South Asiancommunity leaders led by Ranju Batra,President of the Association of Indians in America-NY to rally grass-roots supportto press the Citizens Stamp AdvisoryCommission of the U.S. Postal Service toissue a postage stamp to honor Diwali, the”festival of lights” observed by Hindus,Sikhs, Christians, Jains, and Buddhists inIndia, the United States, and around theworld.

    “Diwali is an important spiritual andcultural festival along with other majorreligious holidays for which stamps areissued, such as Christmas, Kwanzaa,Hanukkah, and Eid, and it merits similarrecognition,” said CongresswomanMaloney.”Diwali – which literally translatedmeans ‘row of lights’ – is a festive andimportant Indian holiday that also signalsthe start of the Hindu New Year. As one ofthe world’s oldest religious holidays, itserves not only as a time for celebration,but also as an occasion for communitiesand families to convene in spiritual enlightenment.

    The practice of Diwali hassurvived political, economic and socialchanges throughout history, while alwayscarrying the universal symbolism of thevictory of light, goodness, knowledge andtruth.” Congresswoman Maloney said.Ranju Batra said “When I took over aspresident of AIA-NY, I set two goals: Tomake the 25th Silver Diwali celebrationshistory-making, and they were, and tolaser-focus on getting the Diwali Stampissued. I asked my dear friend Rep. CarolynMaloney to take the lead in Congress. I amso delighted to see Congresswoman GraceMeng here in person, and to have thesupport of Steve Israel, Ami Bera and Tulsi Gabbard.

    We need everyone who supportsreligious freedom and mutual respectamongst neighbors to sign on. We nowfinally have a strong core group to make ithappen.”Ravi Batra, attorney and chair ofNational Advisory Council on South AsianAffairs who emceed the meeting, added,”The target audience of the Diwali stampisn’t just 3 million Indian-Americans butover 1 billion in India alone. The sale of aDiwali Stamp would be a much-neededsource of revenue for the US Postal Servicein tough economic times. It may reduceUSPS’ need to raise first class rates for all.”

    “The Postal Service has issued stamps forseveral major religious holidays and nowit’s time for them to do the same forDiwali,” said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng. “Creating a Diwali stamp would be anoutstanding way to recognize and celebratethe vibrancy of the Hindu American andIndian American communities, and salutethe traditions and tremendouscontributions that they’ve made to ournation. Diwali deserves its own stamp, andI’m pleased to join my Congressionalcolleagues in urging the Postal Service tocreate one.”Congressman Steve Israel echoed thesentiments of his fellow New Yorkers,saying “I am proud to cosponsor thisresolution urging the Postal Service toissue a stamp that would recognize thefestival of Diwali, commonly known as the’festival of lights.’

    The holiday embodies theessential lessons of good triumphing overevil and embracing one’s inner light. Today,I join my colleagues to call on the Citizens’Stamp Advisory Committee to give Diwalithe recognition it deserves and issue acommemorative stamp.”India’s Permanent Representative to theUnited Nations, Ambassador HardeepSingh Puri and Ambassador LakshamiPuri, Deputy Secretary General, Women atthe United Nations also spoke.Others who addressed the gatheringincluded Mayor Ernie Davis, KamleshArya, a former President of AIA, NY andNew York City Council Member LetitiaJames.

    Indian-American Congressman AmiBera, in his statement, said “Diwali is oneof the world’s oldest religious holidays. Itcelebrates goodness and truth and isobserved by people from differentbackgrounds all across the United Statesand around the world. We should honor itsplace in our country’s tradition of religiousdiversity with a postage stamp, as we havedone for many other religious holidays. “Co-host of the lunch meeting SudhirVaishnav, President and CE of GlobosatEntertainment proposed a vote of thanks.

    Background:Diwali traditionally marks the lastharvest of the year before winter and overtime has come to also mark the first day of the new financial year in India. This”festival of lights” marks the triumph ofgood over evil, light above darkness, andinsight and knowledge over ignorance anddisregard. Diwali is celebrated byadherents of many faiths across the world.Congresswoman Carolyn Maloneyintroduced House Resolution 47 on January25th of this year to urge the Citizens’ StampAdvisory Committee, an entity of theUnited States Postal Service, to issue acommemorative stamp in honor of thefestival of Diwali.

    The bi-partisan and bicoastalresolution is co-sponsored byIndian-American Congressman Ami Bera(CA-07), Hindu-American Tulsi Gabbard,(HI-02), and by several members of the NewYork Congressional Delegation includingRep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Rep. Joe Crowley(NY-14), Rep. Steve Israel (NY-03) and Rep.Peter King (NY-02).Founded in 1967, the Association ofIndians in America is the oldestorganization of Indians in the country. TheNew York chapter is a microcosm of theextraordinary diversity of the Indiancommunity in the New York area, withmembers of all regions and religions ofIndia represented across the tri-stateregion.

    AIA prides itself on its tradition ofopenness and respect for persons of allreligious faiths, with members, as well as awide range of professions, backgroundsand occupations. AIA’s New York chapterperforms countless acts of public serviceand philanthropy, reflecting its motto,”Indian Heritage and Americancommitment.” Indeed, AIA-NY celebratedits history-making 25th Silver Diwali with adinner at the Pierre and the festival at theSouth Street Seaport, the largest suchcelebration in North America.

  • Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Cosponsors Commemorative Diwali Stamp Resolution

    Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Cosponsors Commemorative Diwali Stamp Resolution

    WASHINGTON (TIP):Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) this week cosponsored a HouseResolution calling for the U.S.Postal Service to establish a postagestamp to commemorate Diwali, the”festival of lights” marking theHindu New Year. Diwali is observedby Hindus, Christians, Jains, Sikhs,and Buddhists in the United States,India, and around the world.”The Diwali festival honors selfawareness,righteousness, andservice to others before ourselves,”said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard,who is the first Hindu-American toserve in the U.S. Congress.

    “Thisyearly festival is a time to celebratethe triumph of goodness and truth,and to reflect on the year. It is onlyappropriate that we commemoratethis widely observed holiday and itsplace in our nation’s rich tapestry ofreligious and cultural diversity.”Diwali, celebrated in October or November annually,originated as a celebration of the last harvest of the yearbefore winter. Indians around the world celebrate withfamily gatherings, glittering clay lamps, festive fireworks,strings of electric lights, bonfires, flowers, sharing ofsweets, and worship to the goddess Lakshmi.

    The resolution (H.Res.47) calls on the Citizens’ StampAdvisory Committee, an entity of the U.S. Postal Service, toissue a Diwali stamp, as it has done for other popularreligious celebrations in the United States such asChristmas, Eid, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah.

  • Reps. Maloney, Meng & South Asian Leaders Hold Press Conference Announcing Reintroduced Diwali Stamp Resolution

    Reps. Maloney, Meng & South Asian Leaders Hold Press Conference Announcing Reintroduced Diwali Stamp Resolution

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): U.S.Congresswomen Carolyn Maloneyand Grace Meng will be joined byRanju Batra, President of theAssociation of Indians in America-NY February 2 at a press conferenceannouncing the introduction of aHouse Resolution calling for theissue of a United States PostalService stamp to commemorate thefestival of Diwali. The pressconference will rally grass-rootssupport to press the Citizens StampAdvisory Commission of the U.S.Postal Service to issue a postagestamp to honor Diwali, the “festivalof lights” observed by Hindus, Sikhs,Christians, Jains, and Buddhists inIndia, the United States, and aroundthe world.

    Congresswoman Carolyn Maloneyintroduced HR 47 on January 25th ofthis year to urge the Citizens’ StampAdvisory Committee, an entity ofthe United States Postal Service, toissue a commemorative stamp inhonor of the holiday of Diwali. Theresolution is co-sponsored by Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera(CA-07), and by CongresswomanGrace Meng of New York’s 6thdistrict who, like Rep. Maloney,represents a substantial South Asianpopulation. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) has also co-sponsored the HouseResolution.

  • NY’s Twin Silver Diwali Events

    NY’s Twin Silver Diwali Events

    Hours before the Diwali Mela, there was a pre-Diwali dinner and Awards Ceremony hosted by AIA at the Pierre hotel, a first for the association. This evening was for approximately 200 people, including corporate heads of sponsoring companies, names, etc. This was a “special thank you, celebrating those who support both the Indian- American community, and the exposure of the culture,” said Ranju Batra AIA President.

    “I especially want to thank our sponsors. State Bank of India for the Fireworks, Star Plus TV for Grand Television Media Sponsor, Bank of Baroda for “Kids Fun Zone, India Tourism, Bank of India and Air India for Platinum Sponsor, Toyota, McDonald’s, New York Life who had major presence at the Diwali, wells Fargo for support. I also would like to thank our media sponsors: Rajeev Bhambri, HR Shah, Dr. Visanath, Kamlesh Mehta, Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Penny Sandhu, Sunil Hali, Prof. Indrajit Saluja, and Sudhir Vaishnav to name a few. Lastly, I am grateful to my Executive Committee and my family.” said Ranju Batra. Three rare and special awards were issued; and three special Flags flown on Capital Hill dome.

    A “Silver Diwali Bright Light Award” were bestowed upon three members of congress: Eliot L. Engel, Carolyn B. Maloney and Gregory W. Meeks, with the names of both ambassadors inscribed upon each award. In addition, Cong. Maloney presented 3 American flags flown on the Capitol Hill Dome in honor of India’s Amb. Hardeep Singh Puri, Pakistan’s Amb. Abdullah Hussain Haroon and United States’ Ravi Batra, remarking that Amb. Puri representing India, Amb Haroon representing Pakistan, and attorney Ravi Batra representing the United States, have “made the world safer with their mutual respect and affection.” Amb. Puri called Amb. Haroon “a very dear friend, who wins a gold medal as an ambassador for all the respect and friends he has earned for Pakistan,” and acknowledged Ravi as “the missing link between the two of them.” Amb. Haroon regaled the audience with the history of Diwali and its traditions, that his mother was born on Diwali, and that

    India and Pakistan had to get closer and start to disarm the border between them. Ravi said “these two ambassadors had enhanced the peace-trajectory of 1.5 billion people of the Sub-Continent with willing governments.” “Cong. Maloney has given wings to my pet project – issuance of a Diwali Stamp – by issuance of a Congressional letter in support of the Diwali Stamp. Now, please call your member of Congress and have them sign the Maloney Diwali Stamp Letter” said AIA-NY president Ranju Batra. Aside from the dignitaries and elected officials present, there were leaders from society, banking, media, and noted author Vikram Seth. “This gathering speaks to the actual triumph of “good” over “evil,” and “light” over “darkness.” It even speaks to the power of “goodness” and “mutual respect” said Ranju Batra.

    The program started with justices of the New York Supreme Court leading every American in the audience in a pledge of allegiance to the United States. This was followed by welcome remarks by Rajeev Bhambri, COO of India Abroad, presidential remarks by Ranju Batra, and remarks by elected officials. Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson spoke
    of her grandson wanting to attend Diwali celebration and Mt. Vernon Mayor Ernie Davis spoke of culture and achievement. NYC council member Dan Halloran celebrated the community’s hard work and achievements. Also presentwere India’s Consul General Prabhu Dayal, India’s Secretary in GOI P.K. Misra and Manjeev S. Puri, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN. During dinner, the twin keynote speeches were given by Amb. Puri and Amb. Haroon. Bollyarts provided spellbinding dance performances. Sudhir Vaishnav was slated to give the vote of thanks. Traditional boxes of burfi were given to all
    attendees.