The Indian Panorama

Tag: Dr. Sunil Mehra

  • AAPI-QLI Celebrates a Year of Growth, Innovation, and Community Bonding

    AAPI-QLI Celebrates a Year of Growth, Innovation, and Community Bonding

    Recognizes Excellence:  Dr. Loui Kavoussi,Dr. Krishna Gujarvarti, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Dr. Sunil Mehra honored 

    MELVILLE, NY (TIP): The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of Queens and Long Island (AAPIQLI) concluded another remarkable year, celebrating its members’ contributions to medicine and the community at its 28thannual convention. Representing 1,000 physicians, AAPIQLI serves as a hub for professional networking, academic excellence, and cultural preservation.

    Dr. Raj Bhayani, Chairman of Board of Trust congratulated Dr. Inderpal Chhabra and his team for the leaps forward with the 2024 Gala.

    The event was attended by close to 500 guests, including several prominent special guests: Representative Tom Suozzi, State Senator John Liu, and Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar. In their addresses, these dignitaries praised the Indian physician community for their unwavering commitment and dedication to improving the health and well-being of New Yorkers.

    A highlight of the evening was the announcement of special endowment funds sponsored by the Bagla family and the Katyal family, totaling over $200,000. These generous contributions will support AAPIQLI’s initiatives to foster academic excellence, community engagement, and professional development among its members.

    Congressman Tom Suozzi has for long been a darling of the Indian American Community. If the community has showered its love on him and ensured his victory as a Congressman, the Congressman has ensured to participate in as many community events as possible.

    A Year of Achievements
    In 2024, AAPIQLI hosted many events that enriched the professional lives of its members while fostering camaraderie within the Indian American Physician community. Among the highlights:
    • Monthly Educational Meetings: These sessions provided a platform for discussing advancements in medical fields such as Oncology, Orthopedics, and Diabetes care.

    Dr. Loui Kavoussi, a Urologist at the forefront of innovation, holds his award.

    • Cultural Celebrations: Vibrant Holi and Baisakhi festivals br

    ought families together, while the Diwali/Bandi Chhor Diwas celebration featured memorable performances, delicious cuisine, and community honors.
    • Research Day: The annual event highlighted groundbreaking research by young scientists, reflecting the community’s commitment to innovation in medicine.

    Recognizing Excellence
    During the Diwali celebration, AAPIQLI honored exemplary leaders for their contributions:
    • Dr. Loui Kavoussi – Urologist at the forefront of innovation.
    • Dr. Krishna Gujavarti– Behavioral health expert and philanthropist.
    • Dr. Dipak Nandi – Neuro-psychiatrist and entrepreneur in healthcare management.
    • Dr. Sunil Mehra– Renowned pulmonologist and community leader.

    Dr. Dipak Nandi, Neuro-psychiatrist and entrepreneur in healthcare management receiving his award.
    Seen in the picture, among others, from L to R: Congressman Tom Suozzi(second from the left) Mrs. Nandi, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Dr. Raj Bhayani, NY State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, State Senator John Liu, Dr.Tarun Wasil, AAPI President, Dr. Devendra Shrivastava.
    Renowned pulmonologist and community leader Dr. Sunil Mehra is honored.
    L to R: Dr. Sunil Mehra, Dr. Dalbir Chhabra, New York State Senator John Liu and Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, President AAPI-QLI.

    Dr. Krishna R.S. Gujarvarty is being honored. L to R: Dr. Devendra Shrivastava, President-Elect, AAPI-QLI, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Dr. Smita Lodha, Mrs. Gujarvarty, Dr. Krishna R.S. Gujarvarty, Dr. Raj Bhayani, New York State Senator John Liu, Dr. Inderpal Chhabra, Gagan Gulai, Convention Co-chair (partially visible)Vision for the Future

    AAPIQLI President Dr. Inderpal Chhabra outlined a forward-looking vision focused on academic excellence, supporting young professionals, and building a thriving community. “We aim to create opportunities for learning and growth that inspire the next generation of Indian American physicians,” said Dr. Chhabra.

    Acknowledgments

    Dr. Chhabra expressed gratitude to the organization’s trustees, committee members, and volunteers for their tireless efforts. Special thanks were extended to Dr. Raj Bhayani for his leadership and to Dr. Dalbir Chhabra for her unwavering support.

    About AAPIQLI

    AAPIQLI is dedicated to supporting physicians of Indian origin through networking, education, and cultural engagement. The organization aims to foster professional excellence and strengthen bonds within the community.For more information, please contact:

    For more information, please contact:
    Inderpal Chhabra MD FACP
    President

    President@aapiqli.org

  • Pearl Banquet Hall and Convention Center in heart of Hicksville celebrates Grand Opening

    Pearl Banquet Hall and Convention Center in heart of Hicksville celebrates Grand Opening

    Ribbon cutting by the family: Dilsheet, Janessa, Alissa, Navneet Sikka, Bably Sikka, Sean Sikka, Gary Sikka, Sunny, Sondhi, and Rubal Sikka.
    Suffolk County Deputy Executive Jon Kaiman presenting a Proclamation on behalf of the County to Gary Sikka . L to R: Indu Jaiswal, Gary Sikka, Jon Kaiman, Naveen Shah, Mohinder TanejaSuffolk County Deputy Executive Jon Kaiman presenting a Proclamation on behalf of the County to Gary Sikka . L to R: Indu Jaiswal, Gary Sikka, Jon Kaiman, Naveen Shah, Mohinder Taneja.
    L to R: Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, Sant Chatwal, Gary Sikka, Herman Singh.

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): As part of their mission to provide the best in the hospitality industry, PEARL Banquet Hall opened its doors on 23rd July 2023. More than 1100 guests attended to celebrate the occasion and to experience the majesty. brilliance, elegance, and grandeur of PEARL firsthand.
    The Grand Opening program started with Sukhmani Sahib Path, Kirtan and Ardaas, followed by sumptuous Langar Prasad that was catered by Mint.

    Harry Bolla (left ) congratulates Gary Sikka

    Rubal Sikka, the owner and President of Pearl said that with determination and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Pearl is a labor of love and brings an excellent dining experience in an atmosphere that is both tranquil and exhilarating.
    Gary Sikka, the Chief Executive Officer, and the Executive Chef said that the 2000 Sq. feet building of Pearl stood in a 2-acre lot, with a spacious parking lot. The Banquet Hall has the capacity to host events for up to 400 people on the main floor. Another 100 can be accommodated on the second floor.
    Pearl is an extension of Mint known for their delicious food for the last 20 years. Pearl will offer not only all kinds of Indian cuisines, but it will also offer Continental, Chinese, Thai, Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican cuisines. The opulent ambience in gold tones and with beautiful chandeliers is a delight to look at.
    The unveiling of the Banquet Hall was attended by Mr. Sant Singh Chatwal, internationally renowned Hotelier, Mr. Harry Singh Bolla Chairman of the Billion Dollar Bolla Management Corporation, Mr. Naveen Shah, CEO of multibillion-dollar corporation Navika Capital Group, Dr. Pailla Malla Reddy, CEO of ScieGen Pharmaceutical Company, Mr. Jon Kaiman, Deputy County Executive, Suffolk County, many community leaders and social activists.
    Among the many who attended the Opening Ceremony were Mr. Mohinder Sigh Taneja, Mr. Zahid Syed, Mr. Shudh Prakash Singh, Mr. Varinder Sikka, Dr. Sunil Mehra, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Mr. Harish Thakkar, Ms. Indu Gajwani, Ms. Indu Jaiswal, Ms. Beena Kothari, Ms. Bina Sabapathy, Mr. Deepak Bansal, Mr. Sharanjit Singh Thind, Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, Mr. Kamlesh Mehta, Dr. Rajinder Jinna, Dr. Vinny Jayam, Dr Raj Bhayani, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Dr. Avtar Singh Tinna, Mr. Satnam Singh Parhar, Mr. Govind Munjal, Mrs. Suman Munjal, Mr. Sunil Hali, Mr. Ajay Sondhi ,Mr. V Nagendra Gupta, and Mr. Jasbir Jay Singh. Mr. Sant Chatwal was full of admiration for the ambience of the place. Mr. Harry Bolla congratulated Mr. Gary Sikka for the “lovely place” which was the best in Long Island. Mr. Jon Kaiman presented a Proclamation o behalf of Suffolk County to Gary Sikka.

    The great place is open and ready to serve you. Why wait? Barge in today.

    Main lobby of Pearl
    Banquet Hall
    Buffet area
    Entrance
    Spacious 150 cars Parking lot
  • Eminent gastroenterologist Dr. Jagdish Gupta takes over as President of AIA-NY chapter

    Eminent gastroenterologist Dr. Jagdish Gupta takes over as President of AIA-NY chapter

    Dr. Jagdish Gupta gives his presidential address.Dr. Jagdish Gupta.
    Outgoing President Harish Thakkar holds the plaque presented to him. Seen in the picture, among others, are Prem Bhandari (extreme left), Nilima Madan ( 2nd from left), Dr. Narinder Kukar (6th from left), Dr. Shashi Shah, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Hon Thomas McKevitt, Animesh Goenka, Dr. Sunil Mehra, and Beena Kothari.

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Eminent physician and community leader Dr Jagdish K. Gupta has been sworn in as President of the Association of Indians in America (AIA – NY chapter) for two years. The Oath of Office was administered by Nassau County legislator Hon. Thomas McKevitt to Dr Gupta and his executive committee at a graceful ceremony on June 2 at the county seat in Mineola, NY.

    In his presidential address, Dr Gupta said that preparations have started in earnest for AIA-NY’s flagship annual program, the iconic Deepavali on South Street Seaport in Manhattan on October 1. And it will be better and bigger than it was before Covid played spoilsport for a couple of years.

    Shreya, a student of Satya Pradeep, gives a classical dance performance.

    Dr Gupta, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.G., former President of IALI (Indian Association of Long Island) and AAPI-QLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of Queens and Long Island), also told the august gathering of former and current AIA office holders and members as well as community leaders that time has come to add to the numerous achievements and milestones of AIA’s past, both at the State and Federal Levels.

    “We are working with our Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar and Speaker of the House Carl Heastie to get Diwali Holiday approved for the entire New York State, not just NYC. We are also working with Congresswoman Grace Meng on Bill HR 3336 to get Diwali declared as a federal Holiday,” Dr Gupta said to applause in the legislative chamber of Nassau County. Stressing that these endeavors require moral and financial commitments from all of us, he implored all to support AIA, the NY chapter, and Indian culture to the best of their capabilities.

    Dr Gupta, an eminent gastroenterologist, added that post-Covid, to serve the community better they are starting a series of programs via Zoom on physical and mental health. The reach of cultural awareness and educational programs will be expanded with webinars and shows. Dr Gupta encouraged participation in AIA activities by generation-next, adding, “We will encourage and induct young leadership. Atul Kukar, Anuj Goenka, Pallavi Manvar, Amar Manvar and many others like them, who grew up with our motto of ‘Indian Heritage and American Commitment’, have great potential to become young AIA leaders.” Dr Gupta praised his able executive committee team, which includes Dr Tara Lodha as Secretary, Nilima Madan as Joint Secretary, Antia Harish Thakkar as Treasurer, Vice Presidents Dr Vijaypal Arya, Vimal Goyal, Dr Sunil Mehra and Beena Kothari.

    Passing the baton to Dr Gupta, Harish Thakkar, who served two terms as President from 2019-22, wished him success and all his support. Thakkar said that when they could not hold the popular Deepavali event in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid, they organized an event at Nasdaq in Manhattan with the massive Nasdaq screen flashing Diwali greetings. They also extended all help possible to the distressed members of the community, including serving food to the needy. PPP materials were provided to health and essential workers.

    Others who spoke briefly included Animesh Goenka, Dr Shashi Shah, and Dr Narinder Kukar, all past Presidents of AIA National. Nilima Madan and Beena Kothari ably emceed the program.

    A classical Indian dance performance was given by Shreya, a student of Satya Pradeep.

    A vegetarian dinner concluded the event. The program was covered by the television media.

    Incoming President Dr Gupta has many accomplishments in the medical profession. Born and raised in Hisar, Haryana, he graduated from the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi in 1966. He completed his residency and fellowship training at Long Island College Hospital (LICH). He is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Gastroenterology. He is also on the Board of Trustees of the Academy of Medicine in Brooklyn. An Assistant Clinical Professor at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn, he has been on the TOP DOCTORS list of Castle Connolly for over 20 years consecutively and was designated as SUPER DOC by New York Times for three years. Last year he had the opportunity to serve as the President of the King County Medical Society during its Bicentennial Year Celebrations. He is very active in National AAPI and is on the board of the AAPI Charitable Foundation.

  • Long Island Indo-American Lions Club President Indu Gajwani passes the baton to Dr. Sunil Mehra

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): The Installation Ceremony of the Long Island Indo-American Lions Club was held on June 22nd, 2022. PDG-T.J. Anand, PDG-Anthony Paradiso, Immediate past district governor-Terri Oster graced the occasion. Emcee of the evening was Anju Sharma, who welcomed all and highlighted the amazing work done by our club. The club is three years OLD, despite of Pandemic the club has done tremendous job. President The club is recognized as number one:

    • First club founded with 34 charter members
    • Maximum Membership (just in a short period of time in two and half years 118 members.)
    • Maximum donations made by club.
    • Maximum Melvin Jones Award recipients are from our club.

    President Indu Gajwani Recognized & appreciatedLions for their services towards Community. Krishna Maddipatla was awarded “ Lion of The Year”.  Community Service Awards were presented to Kanak Golia,  Nand Panjwani, Bobby Patel, Jay Shah, Anil Shah, Naveen Shah and  Gary Sikka. Anju Sharma & Sanju Sharma was recognized for  Excellent Leadership award. Rita Shah, Gobind Bathija, Nimesh Shah, Vijay Shah, Saurabh Seth, Pradeep Gosalia, Poojaa Makhijani, Dr. Kalpesh Amin,Dr. Yogendra Saxena, Pawan Singla, Dr. Usha Tandon, Sital Shah, Yogini Oza, Madhu Pareek, Vandana Kumar were awarded Recognition awards for their services for the club.

    Sanjiv Jindal Represented the office of Senator Anna Kaplan and Citations were presented to Kanak Golia, Krishna Maddipatla,  Anju Sharma, Dr. Sunil Mehra, Rita Shah, Sanju Sharma, Indu Gajwani & Shyam Gajwani for their outstanding services. Shyam Gajwani ‘LCIF officer’ was appreciated and recognized for his support and dedication throughout the years. Outgoing President Indu Gajwani was awarded ‘Excellent performance Award’ for outstanding work within short period of time.

    38 New Members were inducted at installation ceremony. President Indu Gajwani introduced New Incoming President (2022-2023)Dr. Sunil Mehra. She handed over the Lions Bell and gavel  to Dr. Mehra as responsibility of the club and wished him all the best. She also promised to continue her support to the club. The Executive committee of 2022-2023 was announced byDr. Sunil Mehra. Kanak Golia, Gobind Bathija, Nimesh Shah & Anju Sharma were announced as Vice Presidents. Sanju Sharma Secretary and Vijay Shah Treasurer for the upcoming year.  Krishna Maddipatla, Dr. Kalpesh Amin, Saurbh Seth, Nand Panjwani, And Dr. Abhay Malhotra will serve as Board of Directors. Dr. Mehra requested team members for their support for the club. He promised  to continue to serve the community and urged the members to work together to keep club at the position of “ Number One”. Vote of thanks by given by Secretary Nimesh ‘Bunty’ Shah. The program ended with Bollywood dance presentation and Dance floor open to all.

    Long Island Indo-American Lions Club is committed to serve the community and to create a better tomorrow for the less privileged. In a very short period of time of 3 years this club has done incredible Job through various events under the leadership of Founding President Indu Gajwani. The events organized by our club are not only limited to reaching out to community to help with Food Drive, Clothes drive, etc. The club also organizes Health and Wellness Fairs, Cultural activities, Social and educational events.  As Lions club worldwide tries to provide healthy meals for the hungry by donating to local pantries where hundreds of people are served daily, Our Local club follows these footsteps. Our club has made efforts to touch lives globally by making donations towards Cancer Cure, eyesight testing, eye surgeries, donation of thousands of eyeglasses, delivery of groceries, Winter jackets and blankets under the project ‘Spread the warmth’ not only in USA but reaching out the less privileged  people in INDIA.