Musikala marked the birth centenary of legendary playback singer Mohammed Rafi with a memorable tribute concert, Immortal Rafi, held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the Richard Montgomery High School auditorium in Rockville, MD. The spacious hall was packed to capacity with over 800 attendees, creating an atmosphere of excitement and nostalgia long before the show began.
From the opening notes, the ensemble of seventeen professional musicians set a tone of reverence and artistic finesse. Vocalists Swati Kanitkar, Yidhijit Bhattacharjee, Diptanu Das, Farid Mahmood, and Vishal Karparde delivered Rafi’s classics with sincerity and style, capturing the timeless essence of his voice while adding their own expressive touches. Supported by a vibrant live orchestra, the performances felt both nostalgic and refreshingly alive.
Thoughtfully crafted narrative interludes traced Rafi’s remarkable journey—from his earliest recordings in the 1940s to his collaborations with stalwarts like Naushad, Shankar–Jaikishan, Ravi, and Laxmikant–Pyarelal. Anecdotes about his training, studio experiences, and personal warmth offered the audience a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.
A standout moment of the evening came with “Madhuban Mein Radhika Naache,” featuring an electrifying tabla jugalbandi between maestro Debu Nayak and young prodigy Arnav Gadre. Their dynamic exchange of bols and rapid-fire improvisation brought the audience to its feet. Nayak—trained under icons including Ustad Zakir Hussain and a frequent performer at prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center—commanded the stage with ease. At the same time, Arnav matched him with youthful brilliance.
The audience
As the program unfolded, a vivid portrait of Rafi emerged: not only a singer of extraordinary versatility but also a gentle, compassionate soul known for his humility and generosity. Memories of his emotional rendition of “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon,” which famously moved Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to tears, resonated deeply with the audience.
By the final numbers, the hall glowed with shared admiration and nostalgia. Listeners were left wanting more, echoing the sentiment of the evergreen line “Abhi na jao chhod kar, ke dil abhi bhara nahin.” Yet, as all good evenings do, this one too came to a close, leaving behind a lasting warmth.
Emcee Mona Sharma delivered a cohesive, eloquent presentation throughout the program.
About Musikala
Founded in 2023, Musikala is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting South Asian music and arts across the United States. Through concerts, workshops, masterclasses, and educational initiatives, it supports a wide range of genres, including classical, semi-classical, ghazal, fusion, and filmi music. Its mission is to preserve musical heritage, build community, and create inclusive cultural experiences across the South Asian diaspora.
Musikala’s leadership team includes President Swati Kanitkar—an IT project management professional and trained vocalist under Pacchapurkar Joshi, a SaReGaMa finalist and accomplished performer across classical and contemporary. Secretary: Soumya Chakraverty – Indian classical musician and distinguished sarod artist with national and international performances, and Treasurer: Tej Kanitkar—a computer science graduate and multi-instrumentalist who has collaborated with renowned artists including Suresh Wadkar, Kavita Paudwal, and Ali Pervez Mehdi.
(Dr. Zafar Iqbal can be reached at raabta.india@gmail.com)
By Dr. Zafar IqbalThe session was presided over by Dr. Harish Naval, an acclaimed satirist and author of more than 40 books, as well as a recipient of the Yuva Jnanpith Prize.
ROCKVILLE, MD (TIP) The Metro Washington chapters of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-Metro Washington) and the Aligarh Alumni Association (AAA-DC) jointly hosted the 17th Annual Mushaira–Kavi Sammelan on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Montgomery County Executive Building Auditorium in Rockville, Maryland. The program was co-sponsored by several local literary and cultural organizations, including the Association of Indian Muslims (AIM), the Hyderabad Association of the Washington Metro Area (HAWMA), the Montgomery Nawabs (MONA), the Global Beat Foundation (GBF), the Bazm-e-Harf-o-Sukhan (BHS), and RR K Biosciences.
Origins and Growth
Program Coordinator Dr. Zafar Iqbal welcomed the audience. He recalled the event’s origins in 2008 as a forum to commemorate Yaum-e-Azadi (South Asia’s Independence Day) through poetry in both Urdu and Hindi. Conceived by Drs. Renuka Misra and Zafar Iqbal (GOPIO-Metro Washington) and Dr. A. Abdullah (AAA-DC), the Mushaira–Kavi Sammelan has since become an annual tradition celebrating South Asia’s shared Ganga–Jamuni cultural heritage.
Mr. Vivek Chaudhary, First Secretary at the Embassy of India, Washington, D.C., and Dr. Renuka Misra at the Mushaira- Kavi Sammelan
A milestone was reached in 2011, when the Embassy of India joined GOPIO and AAA-DC to host the first international bilingual poetry recitation—an initiative inspired by Dr. Virandar Paul (my colleague from the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi), then Minister at the Indian Embassy in Washington. This recognition solidified the event as a platform for cultural diplomacy.
This year, Mr. Vivek Chaudhary, First Secretary at the Embassy of India, applauded the organizers for presenting an inspiring and meaningful program.
Literary Contributions
A defining feature of the Mushaira–Kavi Sammelan has been its encouragement of literary talent in the diaspora, often marked by book launches of both emerging and established writers. Over the years, the stage has hosted acclaimed authors and poets such as Prof. Satyapal Anand, Prof. Asghar Wajahat, Dr. A. Abdullah, Dr. K. Mohan, Raj Kumar Qais, Anadi Naik, Dr. Astha Naval, Dhananjaya Kumar, Rashmi Sanan, Farah Kamran, Surinder Deol, Daler Deol Aashna, Salman Akhtar, and Prof. Gopichand Narang.
The 2025 session featured an impressive lineup of poets, including A. Abdullah, Astha Naval, Harish Naval, Madhu Maheshwari, Mohammed Akbar, Mohammed Jaweed, Narendra Tandon, Nisha Narayan, Preethi Govindaraj, Razi Raziuddin, Rizwan Ali, Sarwat Parvez, Sarwat Zehra, Shamsa Najam, Sneh Sudha, Sukesh Chopra, Tabassum, Uday Kamath, Vinita Tiwari, Vishakha Thaker, and Yusuf Rahat.
A view of the audience
Highlights of 2025 Program
The session was presided over by Dr. Harish Naval, an acclaimed satirist and author of more than 40 books, as well as a recipient of the Yuva Jnanpith Prize. He enriched the proceedings with his literary observations.
The program was conducted with elegance by Mohammed Akbar, who also introduced poets with verses of his own.
Dr. Mohammad Haziq served as master of ceremonies, and Dr. Salman Rashid delivered the vote of thanks.
The gathering also paid warm tributes to late senior poets of the Washington area—Professor Satyapal Anand, Aziz Qureshi, and Rakesh Khandelwal—as well as to eminent Urdu scholars Professor C.M. Naim (University of Chicago) and Professor Tahsin Siddiqi (University of Michigan, Ann Arbor).
Guests and Partners
Special guests included representatives of partner organizations and the Embassy of India. Recognized for their continued support were Ms. Ariena Rashid (AAA-DC), Dr. Renuka Misra (GOPIO), Mr. Kaleem Kawaja (AIM), Mr. Mir Zahid Ali (HAWMA), Dr. Mohammad Akbar (MONA), Ms. Nuzaira Azam (GBF), Dr. Arif Mahmood (BHS), and Dr. Qazi Hamid (R K Biosciences).
Another view of the audience (Photos : Courtesy Aslam Azad and Mohammad Haziq)
Cultural Impact
By bringing together poets from both Urdu and Hindi traditions, the Mushaira–Kavi Sammelan bridges linguistic divides and highlights the deep interconnections between vocabulary, idiom, and poetic form. Over the years, it has drawn audiences ranging from students and families to immigrants, longtime residents, and diplomats, fostering interfaith understanding and intergenerational bonds within the diaspora. Its continuity and inclusiveness ensure that South Asia’s literary heritage remains vibrant in the Washington, DC area.
The author gratefully acknowledges Mr. Aslam Azad and Mr. Mohammad Haziq for providing photographs.
Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s revered economist and former Prime Minister, passed away today at AIIMS, leaving an unparalleled legacy of wisdom, integrity, and transformative economic reforms. Renowned for his humility, intellect, and quiet determination, Dr. Singh was a guiding force behind India’s economic resurgence, particularly during his tenure as Finance Minister and later as Prime Minister.
I feel deeply honored to have met this extraordinary leader during his time as Prime Minister—a memory I will always cherish. Dr. Singh’s vision and unwavering commitment to the nation will forever inspire generations to come. He will be remembered for his contributions to India’s progress and for his profound humanity.
موت کیا ہے انہی اجزاء کا پریشان ہونا زندگی کیا ہے عناصر میں ظہور ترتیب
ज़िन्दगी क्या है अनासिर में ज़ुहूर -इ तरतीब, मौत क्या है इन्ही अज्ज़ा का परेशां होना
Zindagi kya hai anasir mein zuhur-e tarteeb Maut kya hai inhi ajza ka pareshan hona
Life is an arrangement of components in a proper form whereas the disintegration of this arrangement of component is death.
On my first day as a student at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, a reference to a Lakhnavi poet evoking the biology of life kindled a deep sense of pride within me, hailing as I did from Lucknow. This marked the commencement of Professor G. P. Talwar’s insightful lectures on biological sciences for the institute’s incoming medical students. Through the evocative verses of Urdu poet Pandit Brij Narain Chakbast Lakhnavi, he adeptly navigated the complexities of life and death.
Years later, in 1974, during a visit to Lucknow from the USA, I had the honor of being interviewed at the All-India Radio Station Lucknow by the esteemed Ms. Uma Chakbast, fondly known as Uma didi. Amidst our conversation, she touched upon the status of Urdu in the USA. Intrigued, I ventured to ask her about her potential lineage to the renowned poet Chakbast. Her eyes sparkled with pride as she affirmed her connection to the illustrious poet, her grandfather. I fondly recalled my experience of Professor Talwar’s enthralling lecture on life’s biology. Later, during a visit to her home, I gratefully received an autographed copy of the book “Subh-e-Watan,” a compilation of Chakbast Lakhnavi’s works by Uma didi.
Dr. Talwar not only shaped my academic journey but also introduced me to a plethora of extracurricular activities unparalleled in other institutions. We were enveloped in a rich tapestry of liberal arts and cultural endeavors, enriched further by enlightening lectures from luminaries such as M. F. Hussain, Satish Gujral, and the spiritual sage Mahesh Yogi. Under Dr. Talwar’s guidance, I took charge of creating vibrant posters to promote these events.
From a scientific standpoint, our biochemistry department blossomed into a national epicenter for groundbreaking research and strategic planning. Esteemed academicians from diverse regions and returning Pool Officers from international assignments frequently graced our department. While my primary role was to assist with their presentations, I confess to occasionally rearranging slides in jest when the visitors overlooked the decorum expected towards students.
My hostel afforded picturesque views of lush lawns, bustling with joggers in the morning and cricket enthusiasts as the day progressed. An annual spectacle was the cricket clash between the faculty and postgraduate students. A particularly memorable match showcased Professor Talwar’s formidable batting skills. To everyone’s surprise, I, an inexperienced bowler, was entrusted with the task and remarkably dismissed Professor Talwar in just two deliveries. Though my peers humorously speculated about the potential postponement to my PhD due to this unexpected triumph, Dr. Talwar’s encouraging pat on my back was a moment I cherish to this day.
As time unfurled, Dr. Talwar moved on to establish the National Institute of Immunology, dedicating himself to pioneering research on leprosy and other endemic diseases in India. He subsequently founded the Talwar Foundation, a testament to his commitment to nurturing young researchers and scientists. Dr. Talwar remains an unwavering inspiration, continually pushing the frontiers of scientific inquiry and fostering the next generation of scientific visionaries. In a heartfelt interview on Rajya Sabha TV, he emphasized the importance of resilience, sincerity, and steadfast determination in pursuing one’s aspirations.
Among the plethora of accolades celebrating his scientific contributions, the Padma Bhushan Award bestowed upon him by the Government of India holds a special place.
In profound reverence and homage to Professor Raghupati Sahai Firaq Gorakhpuri, I’ve respectfully adapted one of his couplets to commemorate Dr. Talwar’s illustrious legacy.
aane vaalī nasleñ tum par faḳhr kareñgī ham-asro
jab bhī un ko dhyān aa.egā tum ne ‘Talwar’ ko dekhā hai
Forthcoming generations will be proud of you, my colleagues, Whenever they would comprehend that you saw Talwar.
2021 is exiting and 2022 is about to enter. So, adieu to one, and welcome to the other. We all have had a mixed kind of experiences in 2021 and we may have our hopes and apprehensions about 2022. The Indian Panorama decided to reach out to readers to have their comment on what impacted them the most in 2021, and what concerns them the most in 2022. We are glad that the response has been quite enthusiastic; we received comments from as many as 15 readers of The Indian Panorama. So, here we go with their comment. Please note we have not edited any, and, as such, the editorial board may please not be held responsible for the mistakes, if any.
We thank the readers for their time and love, and wish them a Happy New Year – EDITORIAL BOARD
Dr. VK Raju, Founder & President Eye Foundation of America, Morgantown, WV
My reflections on 2021
COVID-19 has affected our lives, our economy and nearly every nook and corner of the globe. More than 5 million covid deaths are reported globally and increasing. The US record for daily Coronavirus cases has been broken as two highly contagious variants- Delta and Omicron- have spread across the country.
In 1918, the flu epidemic death rates varied among different groups. It is sad to say that 100 years later, this history repeated itself. Any specific therapies of the day had little impact on the disease. A hundred years later it is still true of covid 19.
While few living people can recall the great flu epidemic of 1918, we can continue to learn its lessons, for example: 1. Common sense value of hand washing, 2. Wearing masks; 3. Vaccinations. Speaking about vaccinations, what percentage of the population recollects smallpox and polio? Smallpox was eradicated because of vaccinations. Polio is eradicated from the planet except for isolated cases in only two countries because of vaccinations. In the case of polio, the Rotary International played a key role. It brought together the political will, professional will, and people’s will. Compare that with the covid situation in US.
Benjamin Franklin said once,” in 1736, I lost my son, a fine boy of 4 years old to smallpox. I long regretted bitterly and still regret that I have not given it to him by inoculation. This mentioned for the sake of parents, who omit that operation on the supposition that they should never forgive themselves if a child dies: my example showing that the regret might be the same either way. Therefore, the safer should be chosen.” Today, living in such an advanced world, many of us get the basic facts wrong. In spite of the many advances in public health, one might say that it is too easily forgotten here and seen as having not enough impact in the rest of the world. There are > 700,000 physicians in USA and only less than 1% practice public health. Yearly flu infections cost the USA more than $87 billion annually, and it can be prevented by developing a universal vaccine at a fraction of the cost. We know the old adage “prevention is better than cure”. Yet prevention is celebrated in principle and resisted in practice.
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Amita Singh, Owner, Daminis, Indian fashion retail store, Edison, NJ.
Dreams can be realized at any age, with hard work and a vision
One always dreaded the ‘C’ word, never quite comprehending the multiples it brings. As I was growing up and entering my adolescence, I was taught to respect ‘Mother Nature ‘and ‘Father Time’. Today my two cents worth would be to also trust science and a human’s resilience and spirit. Covid has taught us that there are multiple aspects of life that are out of our control. As a single woman, in my apartment during the worst of the pandemic, with my business closed, all I could realize was that it could always be worse. I have also within me, recognized my own personality to accept and overcome what I cannot change. It could be termed as maturity. Personally, it has risen me to another level. This is ‘POWER’.
Today I celebrate me, the family that truly connects with me and not just because we share a family tree. I have also grown to respect friends that have an honest, not always agreeable, discussion with me and participate in my life. I have grown to cherish time that others make for me and not the gifts they bring nor the accolades. As we enter 2022, recognizing life can’t get any worse yet it can, I want to remember lessons learnt, not to be easily forgotten. I want to celebrate the strength within me to make small changes that leave those around me in a better place. Be it in words, action, holding hands or just offering my shoulder.
Life is not difficult; we make it so by the choices we make!
So I think and believe!!!
Wishing every ‘Indian Panorama’ reader a very happy New Year! May 2022,bring you gifts that sustain you as a human being and are not fleeting. History is a cruel reminder. Let’s rise & shine!
May you create precious memories that are passed onto the next generation!
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Ashook Ramsaran, President Indian Diaspora Council International, New York
Impactful Issue of Year 2021 and Primary Concern for 2022 – by Ashook Ramsaran
Most impactful issue of 2021: The continuing spread, unknown trajectory and devastating effects of Covid-19 and its variants, inequity of Covid-19 vaccines globally and the tremendous impact on the lives and livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. The unexpected toll globally in 2021 has been hugely impactful: The unprecedented numbers of those who died, got infected, were physically and mentally affected, displaced, lost their jobs and loved ones, and experienced inordinate disruption in their way of life. Disproportionately affected were front line medical, emergency food industry workers, the poor, and working parents. Covid-19 induced poverty increased by over 100 million people worldwide. Business, travel, education and purchasing of food and goods changed dramatically in ways never before imagined. While technology allowed some sectors to continue at reduced levels, the untold consequences will have long lasting impact into the future.
Issue of primary concern in 2022: The continuing devastating effects of global climate change with continued resistance to taking necessary steps to reverse the trend and save our planet. While promises are made and broken, there is absence of a coherent strategy and global leadership on the dire impact of changing climatic conditions due to mankind’s adverse influence on the environment. Developed and developing countries, as well as business self- interest, have largely failed to acknowledge science and physical changes taking place: unprecedented levels of pollution, global temperature rise, floods and droughts, forest fires, hurricanes, tornadoes and storms, increasing respiratory problems among all ages, availability of healthy foods, water and air. Climate changes will affect everyone’s lives and livelihood in unprecedented ways.
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Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO International, Stamford, CT
The 2021 continued to be a year in turmoil with a global pandemic continuing to hit the USA, Europe, India and many other countries very badly. When the pandemic hit India severely in April/May/June 2021 and causing lack of Oxygen supplies, the Indian Diaspora community organizations including GOPIO came forwarded to ship massive number of oxygen concentrators to India. The good part in the USA in 2021 was the change over to a new administration which had put together many concrete steps to help American people from the disaster caused by the pandemic. The administration also helped to bring back a robust economy with a very low unemployment. The Corona Virus affected everyone including our Diaspora community. We lost many friends in India due to the pandemic. For Indian Americans, it was an extraordinary year with Indian/African origin Kamala Harris sworn in as Vice President of the USA. By the middle of the year, we could start organizing programs with physical presence, however, the new Omicron variant spreading fast in the USA and all over the world, has alerted us to be cautious. As we enter the New Year, let us hope that our world comes back with normal life in 2022. I wish everyone a healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year.
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George Abraham, Vice Chairman, IOCUSA
Another tumultuous year is passing by as we are on the threshold of a New Year. We were told to wear masks, wash our hands, take vaccines twice, take a booster shot, keep a safe distance, and we complied with them all. However, Omicron couldn’t care less, and once again as this virus (manufactured or not) made its way all-around, creating havoc and spreading panic. I am nostalgic for those days when I was indeed a free man enjoying life as a normal human being.
It is also sad to see that politicians are using this crisis to advance their own interests rooted in the ideology of their choice. These elected representatives who are supposed to serve us are acting as our Lords and Kings. They have succeeded in depriving people like me of going into a Dunkin’ Donut’s shop and enjoying a coffee and apple fritter in-house in the last several weeks. I wonder whether they are genuinely concerned about my health or usurping their authority and exercising power over all of us. The primary responsibility of the government is to protect the lives and property of its citizens. If they are genuinely concerned about our security, they will not defund the police and facilitate a rise in crime that threatens every law-abiding citizen. However, today the authorities are busy yanking a whopper jr. from a kid’s hand at a Burger King joint rather than arresting and detaining marauding youths who are engaged in ‘smash and grab’ burglaries all around! It is amazing how our world has just turned upside down!
Our only hope for 2022 is that common sense will prevail across the board! May I wish everyone a peaceful and healthier New Year!
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Mabel Pais, Writer on Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Health & Wellness, and Spirituality, New York.
In 2021, the COVID-19 virus that began to make its appearance in the latter half of 2019, pervaded us and took the lives of 10s of 1000s of humans, first in the western countries, then most countries, one by one.
My wish for all of us to stay healthy in 2022 and live productive lives is to develop a healthy immune system that will NOT get impacted by any deadly virus. I think this can happen if we live as a co-existent, interdependent human society where we look out for one another.
The demise this week of Nobel Prize laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the South African Anglican bishop, theologian, and peace activist brings home the message: “I am, who I am….because…. we are, who we are.” “I am… because…. you are.” – Ubuntu thoughts. Our survival and our thriving are inextricably connected.
Treading in the footsteps of another Nobel Prize laureate Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and other peace seekers, it is fitting to accept this co-existence and inter-dependence of us humans as absolutely vital to our survival and prosperity, if we wish to continue to thrive on Mother Earth. Mother Earth is our home. We cannot abuse our Mother who nurtures us and allows us to live and flourish day by day. Would we abuse our human mother? I doubt it. Let’s treat Mother Earth with the respect and caring she has bestowed on us for millennia. Let’s stop abuse of nature: the flora and fauna with which we have been gifted from birth.
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Urmilesh Arya MD FACP, President, National Association of Indians in America, New York
Impact of Covid on USA
One of the issues that impacted US as well as the entire world is the Covid 19 crisis. In US more than 52.5 million suffered from this infection out of that more than 833,000 people died. As of Dec 16, 2021, 1 in 6 US resident have been confirmed infected and 1 in 409, people died. Many hospitals did not have enough staff to meet the demand and many countries had shortage of PPE, Respirators and oxygen supply. The pandemic made an increase in Violence, robberies and lootings, a constant threat.
Addictions, mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, loneliness, and social isolation affected more to young generation between18 to 34 years of age. Preventive care delayed because of Covid infection
The pandemic has created a need of support in the areas of Housing / Homelessness, Health care, Nutrition / Food support, Mental Health, Domestic Violence, care for seniors etc.
The major invention to control pandemic was invention of vaccine. According to CDC 241.6 million people (73%) has received at least one dose, out of that 62 % are fully vaccinated. Recently there is a 41 % increase in new covid cases. People who are getting hospitalized are those who are not vaccinated.
Pandemic has changed the life of people, how we work, learn and interact as social distancing guidelines have led amore virtual existence both personally and professionally. The good news is people were using this time to get healthier in many areas, better eating habits, improved sleep pattern, modifying on exercise program and healthy dietary changes. Quarantine made them value their relationships. Children have benefited from being able to spend more time with family. Also, people reevaluated how they spend their time and the life goals.
There is a new variant of concern in 2022, covid Omicronthat spreads fast but less severe than beta and delta variant, symptoms are same as that of Flue.
Vaccines clearly raise antibody and strengthen the body defense against infection. People feel a great concern about effect of Covid in 2022. Bill gates said, the biggest concern is “people’s distrust in Government.” Chief executive officers of Companies like Health care, Restaurants, manufacturing etc., think hope for return of economy to normal is misguiding. Stock market may crash, Recession may happen. President Joe Biden said “we are experiencing the strongest economic recovery in the world. Even after inflation, our economy is bigger, and our families have more money than they did before pandemic.” We got to think positive and hope for a better future. Wish you all a Happy New year and there is a healthy, happy and pandemic ending 2022.
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Gobind Bathija Entrepreneur and Community Leader, New York
As 2021 comes to a close, it is sometimes difficult to remove yourself from the immediate challenges that face us and reflect on what has evolved as a result of those challenges. India’s commitment to the development and implementation of COVID-19 vaccinations and treatment programs is a testament to their dedication to the safety and welfare of its citizens regardless of Sector. With respect to the fight against the Covid Pandemic, India is unified. All necessary steps are being taken to ensure India is prepared well to face the continued challenges and threats posed by the continued pandemic of the corona virus. India has even addressed the Indian men’s love of spitting with officials introducing penalties for such actions combatting the airborne dangers in the spread of the virus. While united in the fight against Covid and with a growing economy, India continues to face challenges with Sector unification. The Public Corruption Index (PCI) still measures close to historical highs. In 2001, the PCI measured at 31 and currently measures at an historical high of 42.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proven credibility in making the grandest of decisions to combat global and internal threats, including corruption and the pandemic. PM Modi took immediate action at the early stages of the pandemic by shutting down the economy on the grandest possible scale. He put the country first ahead of the political effects. PM Modi can never be accused of not doing enough. PM Modi should continue to lead with visions of improving quality of lives, strengthening of human freedoms and aspirations, and deepening democracy. While leaders around the world are pre-occupied with immediate challenges, PM Modi presents the initiatives for the next 25 years marking the Centenary of Indian Independence including making India stronger, more prosperous, more inclusive and equal and more democratic. This will result in less corruption, and a safer, cleaner, stronger economic world power of India.
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Harpreet Singh Toor, Co -Founder & President, South Asians for Global Empowerment
The Year 2021 was a very challenging year as we were still in Covid-19, which we still are, and we also have a new President for US. There was such a contrast in personalities with outgoing president, but the challenges were still the same. The withdrawal from Afghanistan for US, the Farmers Protest and resolution for India and Russia knocking on the door of Ukraine. The 2022 is beginning with two major challenges for world. One is Covid-19 still raging and geopolitical challenges from Russia, China and Taliban. I hope and wish we have more Statesmen in the world. Still, wishing a Best and Healthy New Year to all of you. Best wishes for Indrajit Saluja for his tireless work and efforts to put the issues in a proper perspective.
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Sunil Mehra, MD, FACP, FCCP, Professor of Clinical Medicine Former Chief of Pulmonary Medicine, and Director of MICU
We had a rough 2020-2021 for the entire world. Covid impacted the lives of everybody. It struck humanity with vengeance as Pandemic of the century. We lost a few million people in the world with USA losing more than half a million. It causes an economic downfall for many professions including medical field. 2022 is starting with surge in Covid omicron numbers making lots of people sicker esp. kids and unvaccinated individuals. My best wishes to readers of Indian Panorama and entire world for a better healthier life. May God be on our side and give us hope and strength
Health, health and health was one fear or issue for a lot of people in 2021 and it will continue in 2022 also. The atmosphere around covid is unpredictable. Various theories are being spread by many different people. It’s hard to really know what is true. I think it’s better to listen to doctors and scientist but then there are peoplewho do not agree. For me personally taking care of myself and be responsible towards my wellbeing and not getting sick. has been a concern. So far, I am fine, and I will continue taking care of myself and my health in 2022. My suggestion is to be responsible towards your wellbeing and learn to be more grateful to the universe and the people in your life. Explore within you happiness, contentment and inner peace.
Once one practices this exploration then it can be easier to face challenges in life.
Then there are realities of living such as work, family, finances etc which bring another challenge for individuals depending on their circumstances. I think the US had four cross-cutting issues- COVID-19, economic recovery, racial equity, and climate change. But the most important issue has been covid in 2021 and it will continue in 2022. Having said this, I still say welcome 2022 with hope and self-care responsibility.
so Happy New Year! It sounds good to say it and to hear it!
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Mike Ghouse- motivational speaker, thinker, author, and interfaith wedding officiant, Washington, D.C.
2021 went away swiftly, even before we realized it, so will be 2022
We have a choice to reluctantly accept what comes our way or choose to shape the future we want. We can carry a rotten face and sulk about things that went awry or have a plan for 2022.
A good plan is not difficult to write; let me simplify it for you. All you have to do is cut a few pieces of pocket-size paper or get 3×5 cards. On the top of each piece of paper, write this out.
Personal health
Family health
Family finances
Income and what to spend on
Job situation
Education
Vacation
Volunteering
Whom to donate
Other items
As your mind races through different topics, take each piece and write down the bullets, don’t worry about priority or sequence at this time. Just jot down the points as they come to you. Once you have enough points on each piece of paper and start thinking about each item, could you write it down or absorb it?
Now, you have the complete data to do whatever you want to do with it. Experience has shown that it gives you peace of mind when you come to this point; the scattered brain comes together.
What is my plan?
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Gobind Munjal – A dedicated and committed Community Worker, New York
Let me first congratulate Prof Saluja for having completed 15 years of publication of The Indian Panorama. I wish Prof Saluja and the staff of The Indian Panorama all the success and best wishes in their endeavor to serve the Indian Community by bringing truthful reporting and making it an informative and educative publication. It gives me immense pleasure to know that The Indian Panorama is bringing out a special edition on the occasion of the New Year.
I am sure the new year edition will record events of 2021 much like 2020, a source of misery to people all over the world. In addition to a lot of deaths, the Coronavirus in the form of new variants continue to adversely impact the businesses and the economy causing a shortage of work force, supply constraints and high inflation. One thing is good that very effective Vaccines were made within a record period of time, which have proved to be a good defense against this deadly virus and people are learning to live with it. As we bid goodbye to 2021, we hope that the new year will bring hope and prosperity and put an end to this pandemic. The things will come back to normal, and world will be a much better place to live in. I wish Prof. Indrajit Saluja and The Indian Panorama continued success and wish everybody a Happy New Year!
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Rajendar Dichpally, General Secretary, IOCUSA, New York
As the year 2021 comes to an End, we look back at the past year with a sense of despondency and also sorrow on the destruction that the second wave of Covid-19 – 2021 caused to human lives, especially for American Indian’s. I still have nightmares listening to horror stories of the collapse of the healthcare system in India caused by the second wave of Virus that hit the country like a tsunami. I have personally lost so many loved ones in my own family and friends. There was nothing we could do to control the situation and looked on helplessly as the virus took away so many lives in India and USA with quick succession.
I was fortunate to work with some good organizations like Gandhian Society to do whatever little we could to help the situation in India. This Virus has taught us that life is so fragile and unreliable and only thing we can do is live a life to the full and try and be a good human being.
As we enter 2022, we are again on the verge of another wave of the virus that has mutated in the form of Omicron, and we are looking at more troubling times. I pray to God to grant the world relief of this virus and let the world breathe easy again, let the children begin to enjoy their childhood again, let businesses flourish and let there be happiness, Good Health and happiness again in this world. Let us again unite to fight this battle together and emerge victorious against the virus. God Save this world and bless all the people who love on this earth. Amen.
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Indu Jaiswal RDN CDN, Chair Indian American Forum, New York.
As we approach the end of 2021 and are looking forward to New Year 2022, we are still going to face tremendous challenges. We hope that year 2022 will be better than 2021. We are still facing the Pandemic of the COVID -19. all over the world however Vaccine and Booster shots are providing better hope in times to come. We also hope that people affected with mental Health challenges will think positive and become more tolerant. Pandemic has affected the Mental Health of people, Despite the arrival of Omicron Variant of COVID – 19 all over, we still feel positive that with constant Vaccinations this variant will be controlled. We Look forward for positive progress against COVID 19. Another factor is to hope for better environment, address Global warming so we do not have to face extreme weather. As people will start returning to work and to normal lifestyle, things will improve. Also as, Global economy will improve, and people will have better expectations. We all must be positive in our thoughts, and we continue to Salute out Frontline workers who continue to work tirelessly in providing us Quality health care and save our lives. We also want to Salute members of All armed forces and police officers for protecting our everyday lives. On behalf of Indian America Forum Members of Board of Trustees and Executive members we wish all of you Happy and Healthy New Year 2022
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Dr. Zafar Iqbal, Maryland
May this New Year bring along love, prosperity, health, and peace in everyone’s life to make this year a beautiful one for all. We wish the New Year unfolds new goals, new happiness, and new achievements and brings smiles and joy for all of us. Na.e saal me.n pichhlii nafrat bhulaa de.n, Chalo apnii duniyaa ko jannat banaa de.n.(Parveen Shakir).
After receiving a doctorate from the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, in 1972, I served as a faculty member at the Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago. In 1994, joined the Veterans Health Administration, US Government as Scientific Review Advisor until retirement in 2020. I have served with several Indian literary and cultural organizations.
Comments of readers are invited on the views expressed here.
Mushaira/Kavi Sammelan celebrating the 74th Independence Day of the Subcontinent
By Dr. Zafar Iqbal
Greeting authors, poets and the audience, Program Coordinator Dr. Zafar Iqbal said “The goal of this annual program is to provide a forum where diverse people—transcending political, religious, regional, and geographical boundaries—could assemble under the same umbrella and appreciate the Ganga-Jamuni culture of the Subcontinent.”
MARYLAND (TIP): “India is proud of its diversity and this program is a manifestation of this diversity,” said Mr. Anurag Kumar, Minister for Community Affairs, Embassy of India. He thanked the organizers for holding such a beautiful program every year and appreciated showcasing of new talents through this program. He also conveyed the best wishes from the Ambassador of India, H.E. Taranjit Singh Sandhu. Kumar indicated that subject to easing of COVID-situation, the Embassy would consider hosting this program.
The Aligarh Alumni Association-Metro DC (AAA-DC), in association with the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin-Metro DC (GOPIO-DC), hosted a successful Mushaira/Kavi Sammelan on Sunday, 9th August 2020, celebrating the 74th Independence Day of the Subcontinent. This annual event has been a part of Washingtonians’ literary life for the last fourteen years. AAA-DC and GOPIO-DC are the only organizations that bring local poets of Urdu and Hindi at one platform to promote a sense of brotherhood in the best traditions of Sanjhi Virasat, as well as to encourage and promote the local talents of these literature(s).
This year, because of the COVID-19 situation, the program was conducted using Zoom technology and it was simultaneously broadcast on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. Several hundred literary enthusiasts enjoyed the event and many encouraging and positive comments were posted on the media. A recording of the event is now available on Facebook ( https://www.facebook.com/AligarhAlumniAssociationOfDC/) and AAA-DC YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/qNmkjJ-jAso).
Greeting authors, poets and the audience, Program Coordinator Dr. Zafar Iqbal said “The goal of this annual program is to provide a forum where diverse people—transcending political, religious, regional, and geographical boundaries—could assemble under the same umbrella and appreciate the Ganga-Jamuni culture of the Subcontinent.” In addition to sharing poetry, this event also recognizes local poets and authors by releasing their recently published books, he added. He recognized the leaders of four cultural community organizations —Mr. Kaleem Kawaja of the Association of Indian Muslims (AIM), Mr. Pavan Bezwada and Mr. Shammi Singh of the National Council of Asian-Indian Associations, Inc. (NCAIA, Inc.), Mr. Sunil Singh & Mr. Kirpa Shankar of the National Council of Asian-Indian Associations (NCAIA), Mr. Moazzam Siddiqi and Mr. Mohsin Alikhan of the Hyderabad Association of Washington Metro Area (HAWMA), and Dr. Mike Ghouse of the Center for Pluralism (CFP), who were co-sponsors of the program. “We are pleased that the Embassy has been supporting this program from the beginning, and it hosted the First Bilingual Poetry recitation program on 10th June 2011 with the help of AAA-DC and Metro GOPIO,” Iqbal added.
Mr. Afzal Usmani, President AAA-DC welcomed and thanked the participants and the audience on behalf of the association. He also applauded the increasing popularity of the program. Welcoming on behalf of GOPIO-DC, Dr. Zafar Iqbal appreciated the participation of poets and guests attending the program. “We have been with this program promoting Ganga-Jamuni culture since the start of the program in 2007,” said Iqbal. GOPIO-DC Chairperson, Dr. Renuka Misra could not join the live broadcast due to technical problems.
The event brought the diaspora with multiple ethnic backgrounds together using social media. A special treat was the participation of Dr. Ashok Narayan from his home in India. He retired from the Indian Administrative Service. Participating poets (in alphabetical order) included: Abdullah, Ashok Narayan, Astha Naval, Daler Ashna Deol, Khurram Yusufzai, Mike Ghouse, Mohammad Akbar, Mohammad Jaweed, Narendra Tandon, Preethi Govindaraj, Razi Raziuddin, Satyapal Anand, Sukesh Chopra, Suman Vardhan, Vandana Singh, Vinita Tiwari, Vishakha Thaker, and Yusuf Rahat. Stalwart poet, author, and critic Professor Satyapal Anand presided over the mushaira. Afzal Usmani compered the poetry recitation session with remarkable literary skill.
Several poets and authors in the past have released their books through our program. Some of them are Professor Satyapal Anand, Professor Asghar Wajahat, Dr. A. Abdullah, Dr. K. Mohan, Mr. Raj Kumar Qais, Mr. Anadi Naik, Dr. Astha Naval, Mr. Dhananjaya Kumar Mrs. Rashmi Sanan, Mrs. Daler Deol Aashna, and Mr. Surender Deol.
This year also three recently published books were presented at the event by Dr. Abdullah. Commenting on Dr. Salman Akhtar’s book Meer Nama, he said that the beauty of the book that each couplet of 54 Ghazals Meer in it. This book is published in both Urdu and Devanagari scripts. The second book Urdu Ghazal- A Gift of India’s Composite Culture was co-authored by Professor Gopichand Narang and Surinder Deol. Dr. Abdullah also presented Deol’s book Sahir—A Literary Portrait that has a foreword by Dr. Narang. This book emphasizes Sahir’s passion for democratic ethos, Sanjhi Virasat, bhajans, women’s rights, and world peace. Reminiscing his fascination with Sahir, Deol said that Sahir’s book Talkhian was the first book he had bought during his student days and he reads it now and then.
The AAA-DC started this Independence Day annual Mushaira-Kavi Sammelan tradition more than a decade ago, and GOPIO-DC joined its efforts soon after. It is very gratifying to see that other community organizations are also supporting this program.
