EDISON, NJ (TIP): In a poignant expression of respect and gratitude, the Indian community convened for a farewell dinner in honor of Ms. Rita Shah of Air India. The event took place on Sunday, March 24 at the Royal Albert Palace in Edison, The farewell dinner gathered over 200 distinguished guests, including numerous members from Air India, such as Mr. Girish Salian, Regional Manager, Mr. Amol Rane, Manager at Newark Airport, and Mr. Amarjit Singh, Manager at JFK Airport. The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) also participated with a significant representation comprising President Dr. Avinash Gupta, Joint Secretary Mr. Srujal Parikh, Vice-President Smita Miki Patel, General Secretary Ms. Priti Patel, Joint Secretary Mr. Mahesh Dubal, and Joint Treasurer Mr. Haresh Shah. Additionally, several prominent community leaders were in attendance. The event was organized by the eminent community leader, Mr. Peter Kothari, in association with the FIA. The event was gracefully emceed by Mr. Andy Bhatia, a former FIA Trustee and Air India Manager.
The gathering
As the evening unfolded, attendees shared heartfelt experiences, reminisced about fond memories, and lauded Ms. Shah for her invaluable contributions. Mr. Srujal Parikh highlighted the historical association between FIA and Air India, reminiscing about the inaugural India Day Parade in Manhattan in 1981, where Air India was the sole supporter and sponsor for the very 1st India Day parade that gathered about 80 participants. Dr. Avinash Gupta commended Ms. Shah for her long-standing support of the Indian diaspora and unwavering commitment to aiding and uplifting the community through selfless service.
The gathering
The event was imbued with gratitude and nostalgia as colleagues and community members joined together to express appreciation for Ms. Shah’s dedicated service and steadfast support. The efforts of Mr. Peter Kothari, notables from the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE) including FIA Senior Advisor & Padma Awardee Dr. H R Shah, FIA President Dr. Avinash Gupta, FIA Board Member Dr. Kanubhai Chauhan, and Albert Jasani of Royal Alberts Palace, a
long with prominent community supporters and participating travel agencies, made the event possible.
EDISON, NJ (TIP): Rijul Maini, an Indian American medical student from Michigan, has been crowned Miss India USA 2023 at the annual pageant held in New Jersey. Greeshma Bhat of Virginia was declared first runner-up and Ishita Pai Raikar of North Carolina was the second runner-up
During the event, Sneha Nambiar from Massachusetts was declared as Mrs. India USA and Saloni Rammohan from Pennsylvania won the title of Miss Teen India USA.
Maini, 24, a medical student and model, aspires to be a surgeon and hopes to serve as a role model to women everywhere, a press release said.
“I am a third year medical student in MSUCOM’s class of 2025. This summer, after taking boards, I was able to participate in the Miss India Michigan 2023 pageant. I thought it would be something fun to do before starting hospital rotations,” Maini wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
‘It is so exciting to have won the title! I have always been a fan of fashion, art, and beauty, so to be able to celebrate those interests along with medical school has been a blessing,” she wrote.
“Congratulations to MSUCOM student Rijul Maini for winning the title of Miss India Michigan 2023!” MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine@MSU_Osteopathic posted.
This year marks the 41st anniversary of the pageant which is the longest running Indian pageant outside of India.
It was started by New York-based Indian Americans Dharmatma and Neelam Saran under the banner of Worldwide Pageants. According to the organizers, 57 contestants from over 25 states participated in three different pageants – Miss India USA, Mrs. India USA and Miss Teen India USA.
Winners of all three categories will be getting complimentary air tickets to take part in Miss- Mrs.-Teen India Worldwide organized by the same group.
“I am very much thankful to Indian community around the world for their support over the years,” said Dharmatma Saran, founder and chairman of Worldwide Pageants.
EDISON, NJ (TIP) : he Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce (AICC) is pleased to announce the results of the recently concluded elections for the Board of Directors. The elections, held on November 29, 2023, at the prestigious Mogul Ballroom in Edison, NJ, saw enthusiastic participation of members.
The newly elected Board of Directors for the term 2024-26 is as follows:
Rajeev Krishna
Rekha Sarathy
Chetan Wattamwar
Harry Mehta
Ilayas Quraishi
Komal Dangi
Ajay Kumar
Neha Mahajan
Parag Nevatia
Shachi Rai Gupta
This term marks the inclusion of three new faces, Neha Mahajan, Shachi Rai Gupta, and Ajay Kumar, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the AICC leadership.
Each member of the newly elected board brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, and their leadership is expected to contribute significantly to the growth and success of the chamber.
During the election event, current President Rajeev Krishna highlighted the accomplishments of the last two years under his leadership. He expressed gratitude to the dedicated Board members who worked tirelessly to elevate the organization. President Krishna also envisioned the AICC reaching new heights, mentioning his aspiration to organize AI technology seminars to impact small businesses positively. He encouraged Board members to share their ideas and actively participate in implementing them. Anil Bansal and Priti Pandya Patel, past presidents of AICC, served as the election committee members. They efficiently organized the election process, announced the results, and extended heartfelt congratulations to the new board.
As a gesture of appreciation to the members, Kunal Lamba, a singing sensation from New Jersey, mesmerized the audience with Bollywood melodies at the event.
The Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting the economic vitality and prosperity of the Asian Indian business community in the United States. Through networking events, educational programs, and advocacy, AICC fosters collaboration and growth opportunities for its members.
EDISON, NJ (TIP): The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), in collaboration with the Indian American community of NY, NJ, and CT, organized an exquisite farewell reception to honor the esteemed Consul General of India, Randhir Jaiswal, on November 20th, 2023. The magnificent banquet hall at Moghul Restaurant in Edison, New Jersey, buzzed with anticipation as distinguished guests gathered to bid a fond adieu to the Honorable Consul General. Ambassador Jaiswal, who will now serve as the new spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), has been a beloved figure in the diplomatic community and the vast Indian American diaspora in the Tri-State area. His diplomatic career, spanning over two decades, has seen him serve in various esteemed positions in Portugal, Cuba, South Africa, and New York.
The evening commenced with a grand entrance, accompanied by a resounding fanfare and regal processions for the Hon. Consul General Randhir Jaiswal while the FIA associates gallantly displayed flags crafted as a tribute to the Consul General as he gracefully traversed the aisle along with his wife, Abha Jaiswal, and other dignitaries, thus fashioning an indelible and extraordinary moment.
The gathering was graced by an exceptional lineup of speakers, starting with Vice Presidents Saurin Parikh and Smita Miki Patel, who warmly extended their heartfelt welcome to all in attendance. Srujal Parikh, the Board Secretary of the FIA Board of Trustees, added a touch of reverence as he introduced the esteemed guests of honor, Sam Joshi Mayor of Edison, and Hemant Marathe, Mayor of West Windsor, and expressed gratitude for their presence.
Both mayors expressed their admiration for the consulate’s extraordinary efforts during the pandemic. Edison’s Mayor Sam Joshi, who worked closely with the consulate during the Vande Bharat mission, also regarded CG Jaiswal not only as a diplomat but also as a friend. He recalled a time when a fire destroyed a building in Edison, primarily affecting Indian-origin residents. The Mayor sought assistance from CG Jaiswal for their passports and other needs, and help was graciously provided. “On behalf of all of Edison, thank you so much,” the Mayor expressed as he read a special proclamation that acknowledged CG Jaiswal’s time, dedication, and exceptional leadership in supporting the citizens of Edison.
The host committee, represented by Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parekh and Padma Shri HR Shah, expressed their admiration for the consulate’s work under Consul General Randhir Jaiswal’s leadership. According to Dr. Parikh, “Jaiswalji was an exceptional person for exceptional times”, during the Covid crisis and India’s 75th independence year. Having witnessed the last 23 Consuls General working in the region, he could attest to the fact that Mr. Jaiswal broke the record with events every other day and appreciated Jaiswalji’s calm, cool demeanor and his ability to make people feel important.
Deputy Consul General Jeph praised the Consular team for their hard work under the leadership of CG Jaiswal. He also mentioned that community engagement was the departing diplomat’s top priority with respect to the consulate’s accessibility and availability to the Indian community 24/7 for passport and visa assistance.
An exciting highlight of the reception was the video presentation by FIA President Mr. Kenny Desai and Executive Vice President Dr. Avinash Gupta. The host committee was composed of prominent community figures such as Anil Bansal, Dr. Avinash Gupta, Kenny Desai, Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Padma Shri Dr. H.R. Shah, and Sunil Bagaria. Other supporters who attended the event included Dr. Mukul Raval, Mohamad Faroqui, Dinesh Goswami, Girish Soni, Deepak Shah, Mukul Thakar, Dr. Tejas Deliwala, Dr. Sanjay Kumar, and Paresh Suthar were briefly introduced and called upon the stage for photo opportunities.
The esteemed Honorable Consul General was invited to the stage, where the host committee presented him with a well-deserved memento, symbolizing their gratitude for his exceptional leadership. Following this, the team of supporters included Dr. Mukul Raval, Mohamad Faroqui, Dinesh Goswami, Girish Soni, Deepak Shah, Mukul Thakar, Dr. Tejas Deliwala, Dr. Sanjay Kumar, and Paresh Suthar who also expressed their gratitude by bestowing their appreciation upon him with a bouquet of flowers.
During his speech, Hon.Consul General Jaiswal expressed his gratitude to the Indian community for their support and assistance over the past three years. He described the relationship between the Consulate and the people it serves as “very healthy” and praised the achievements of the Indian American community and the second generation. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Consulate has been open every day of the week since May 2020, which is a unique feat compared to other consulates around the world.
Shri Jaiswal shared some of the highlights during his tenure, such as the raising of the Indian flag at Times Square, people staying up until 2 am to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s telecast speech and the 8,000 individuals who gathered at the White House to welcome PM Modi during his state visit to Washington. He believes that these accomplishments speak volumes about the community’s achievements and recognition.
Deputy Consul General Jeph praised the Consular team for their hard work under the leadership of CG Jaiswal. He also mentioned that community engagement was the departing diplomat’s top priority.
Ankur Vaidya, the chairman of FIA, shared an inspiring narrative of Mr. Jaiswal’s journey, from his early days as an IFS officer to his appointment as the Consul General of India as he recognized his dedication and unwavering commitment to serving Mother India. Mr. Vaidya also praised the Consul General for championing the diaspora and acknowledged Abha Jaiswal for her unwavering support. He recalled how the CG had facilitated millions of dollars in aid sent by organizations from the US. He also commended the CG and his team for their efforts to make the Consulate more accessible and inviting to the public. The Chairman concluded by wishing CG Jaiswal a bright future and success ahead by saying, “May your career shine to bring India and US closer together”.
The event was organized in collaboration with GANA, BJANA, Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce, ICS of NJ, World Vegan Vision, MOCAAPI, Siddhivinayak Temple USA, United States Hindu Alliance, Vihar Foundation, Bhartiya Vidhya Bhavan USA, and Mana American Telugu Association. Alok Kumar, representing the Bihar Foundation and BJANA, delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the supporters.
In an earnest conclusion, FIA Treasurer Priti Patel extended a vote of thanks to the entire Indian American community, along with the host committee, executive committee, and supporters. Her words of appreciation resonated with the audience, acknowledging their unwavering support and dedication to fostering a strong and vibrant Indian diaspora. The evening concluded on a high note with heartfelt speeches, music, and a celebration of Mr. Jaiswal’s remarkable legacy.
EDISON, NJ (TIP): For the second time in a row Yuva Hindi Sansthan, a NJ based non-profit educational institution, partnered with the Hindi Program at New York University, received the prestigious Fulbright-Hays Group Project Abroad award for the fiscal year 2023. The project, conducted by the US Department of Education, requires the grantees to conduct a month-long study tour to India for US based language teachers, students and school, college or university faculty members.
According to a press release issued by the award recipients, “The project is based upon an in-depth study by Prof Gabriela Nik Ilieva, NYU, who developed this program that offers a unique opportunity to study, improve, and develop Hindi language skills and engage in collecting, organizing topic-based audio, visual and textual materials as resources for developing thematic curriculum documents for Hindi learners. The theme of the project, LIVING WIH CONTENTMENT IN A MATERIAL WORLD: MINDFUL LIVNG AND WELLNESS TRADITIONS IN INDIA’, is drawn from the age-old Indian tradition that advocates contentment.”
“We are glad to have received this award”, said Ashok Ojha, Program Director, “ We won the Fulbright-Hays award in the year 2022 for the first time that enabled us to lead a group of educators to India for one month when the participants explored the value of ‘sustainability’ in the Indian context. On their return to the USA they worked under Prof. Ilieva and developed teaching material based on the material collected in India.”
“This year our team will explore how members of various Indian communities think or talk about mindful living, on one hand, and on the other exercise mindful living, ideas and behaviors rooted in ancient traditions and textual sources”, Ojha continued.
A non-political project funded by the US Department of Education, YHS-NYU Fulbright-Hays GPA Curriculum Development Program 2023 provides equal access and treatment for eligible project participants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability condition. It is open to all U. S. based K-12, community schools and college instructors. Project Director Ashok Ojha and Project Academic Director Prof. Gabriela Nik Ilieva will lead the team of participants on a study tour to India in the Spring 2024.
During the study tour the program participants will collect information, record individual and community insights about practices and perspectives related to contentment, mindful lifestyles and wellness in order to develop instructional materials and thus expand existing curricula. The study tour includes mindful and wellness lectures and activities at the ‘Arsh Vidya Gurukulum’ in Rishikesh; measuring contentment and happiness, Lucknow University; legends and iconic places, Kolkata; balance in life through Madhubani art in Bihar, and the traditional practices and perspectives in Upanishadic and Buddhist texts at Benares University and Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies.
The goal is to create an instructional platform that will support the teaching of traditional mindful practices and perspectives more consistently and more cohesively in the Hindi and South Asian Studies classrooms in the U.S., based on focused information and well-designed instructional materials. They will learn from lectures and selected readings of primary and secondary resources; they will make observations and discuss with local native speakers common practices and perspectives related to the different dimensions of mindfulness and wellness. Our initial research demonstrates that
The program consists of pre-departure and post-tour online work (held on 5 Saturdays 10am- 2pm December, 2023-January, 2024 and 5 Saturdays April-May 2024).
“It’s a story of an ordinary man, doing an extraordinary job” says Manoj Bajpayee at the ZEE5 Global Special Screening of ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’ in New Jersey
EDISON, NJ (TIP) : On Sunday, May 14, Manoj Bajpayee stole the limelight at the exclusive screening of the much-anticipated courtroom drama ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’ organized by ZEE5 Global in New Jersey. The highly anticipated film, soon to release on ZEE5 Global, was showcased at BIG Cinemas in Edison. The exclusive event, attended by prominent people from the South Asian community and media, saw the celebrated actor actively engage with his fans who were thrilled with the personalized interaction.
Speaking about the character he plays in the movie, Manoj Bajpayee stated, “It’s a story of an ordinary man, doing an extraordinary job, that becomes an example for society.” His words encapsulated the essence of the film, which resonated with viewers on multiple levels. While sharing insights into his preparation for a challenging monologue which he delivered in a single take, he revealed “I rehearsed my monologue more than 100 times before starting the shoot.” Speaking at the screening, Archana Anand, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5 Global, said, “It is a powerful courtroom drama that will stay with you. In a world where one is often dealing with injustice and left feeling angry, this film gives you a sense of closure and satisfaction and we’re thrilled to see how strongly it is resonating with our audiences here.”
Chairman and Managing Director, Bhanushali Studios Limited, Vinod Bhanushali says, “After the response at New York International Film Festival, it is humbling to hear about the love and appreciation our Indian diaspora gave to a film we all have worked hard towards. It is a matter of pride to see the world finally celebrating Indian cinema.”
“We are thrilled with the heart-warming response the film has been receiving from the Indian diaspora and the New York Indian Film Festival. The world is now recognizing as well as celebrating Indian content and we are proud to pioneer this wave of change,” says Shariq Patel, Chief Business Officer, Zee Studios.
The film’s screening at the New York Indian Film Festival earlier this week garnered an overwhelming response from the audience. further solidifying its position as a must-watch title.
Produced by Zee Studios, Vinod Bhanushali’s Bhanushali Studios Limited, and Suparn S Varma, ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’ is touted as one of the biggest legal courtroom dramas of the year. The Apoorv Singh Karki directorial, inspired by true events, follows high court lawyer PC Solanki, who single-handedly fights an extraordinary case against the country’s biggest godman for the rape of a minor under the POCSO Act.
EDISON, NJ (TIP) More than 500 people including elected officials and community leaders attended the tenth anniversary celebrations of the Santhigram USA, at the Edison Hotel in Edison, New Jersey, January 20.
The glittering event highlighted the growing influence of Ayurveda in the US as well as the remarkable journey of Santhigram. The event also launched three new projects of Santhigram, an Ayurveda training school, Santhigram herbal products and Santhigram Foundation.
Started in one room at the Edison Hotel a decade ago, Santhigram grew to become a brand name in Ayurveda in the US with 12 centers in five states.
But things were not going well initially and there were heartbreaks and disappointments. “When I landed in the US in 2007, I did not know where to go, whom to meet and how to start the business,” Dr. Gopinathan Nair, who founded Santhigram along with his wife Dr. Ambika Nair, said.
“We humbly acknowledge the multitude of hurdles and challenges we faced, because there was absolutely no precedence in running an Ayurveda wellness business in the US. Coming to US with a dozen Ayurveda specialists in November 2007 exclusively with a mission of spreading Ayurveda wellness was a great challenge in itself.”
In an interview earlier, he said he was fed up to a point that he wanted to throw away the medicines and gadgets in Hudson River and return to Delhi, where they had a successful business.
Yet they persisted, and several people came forward to help. Gradually things began to change and clients from far and wide came for the Ayurveda and Pancha karma treatment offered by the center.
“We are pleased to say with great pride that we have moved forward overcoming obstacles and managed to spread our wings to as many as five states, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Illinois and Wisconsin.
“This would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated team and the clients who had absolute faith in the effectiveness of the unique system of Kerala-specific Ayurveda treatments,” he said.
Nair said it is gratifying to see the hundreds of patients cured with a holistic solution. But many are still not able to get the services due to insurance regulations. “Things are changing and we are helping our clients to get the coverage needed,” he said.
New Jersey State Senator Vin Gopal presented to Dr Gopinathan Nair, a joint resolution of the New Jersey Senate and Assembly honoring Santhigram
New Jersey State Senator Vin Gopal presented to Dr Gopinathan Nair, a joint resolution of the New Jersey Senate and Assembly honoring Santhigram. It noted that the company has established a model to emulate and set a standard of excellence toward which others might strive. ‘The Santhigram Kerala Ayurvedic Company has grown from its humble beginnings to its present vital and dynamic state due to the capable and effective guidance of President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Gopinathan Nair and Vice President and Chief Consultant Dr. Ambika Nair, as well as the steadfast commitment of its tireless staff. It is altogether proper and fitting for this Legislature to pause in its deliberations to recognize the Santhigram Kerala Ayurvedic Company, and to praise it as an essential and superb holistic health organization…,’ the proclamation said.
Noted guests joined the lamp lighting ceremony including New Jersey Utility Commissioner Upendra Chivukula, Congressional candidate Peter Jacob, Padma Shri H.R. Shah, chairman of TV Asia, Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parekh Worldwide Media, Rajeev Bhambri, COO of India Abroad, Prof. Indrajit Saluja, editor of The Indian Panorama, Dr. Sudhanshu Prasad and Dr. Binod Sinha, prominent physicians and owners of E Hotel, Melinna Giannini, health insurance consulting specialist and president of ABC Medical Coding Solutions, Deepak Parashar, Bollywood actor and Swami Siddhananda, acharya of Chinmaya Mission.
Dr. Gopinathan Nair and Dr. Ambika Nair honored several people, who helped them in the early days including Attorney Anand Ahuja, Vinay Mahajan, Late Ashok Diwakar, Alex Koshy Vilanilam, Aniyan George, Late Dr. Shakir Mukhi, PK Ramnachandran, Attorney Ram Cheerath, Gulshan Chhabra, Dr. Sudhansu Prasad, Sheela Sreekumar, Attorney Thomas Vinu Allen and Commissioner Upendra Chivukula.
Three people working with Santhigram for the last ten years-Reeja Beegum, Sheena Mohan and Jooly Joy-were honored at the event. Employees who completed more than five years, Nishad Balan, Meenu K Mani and Pradeep Pillai too were honored with excellence awards.
A souvenir with several articles on Ayurveda was released at the event.
Launching a new range of herbal products
Dr. Nair presented the details of the new projects. The Ayurveda training school has the approval of New Jersey State. Those who are successful in the training will be employed at the Santhigram centers.
The second project was introducing authentic Ayurveda products under the label of Santhigram Herbal. It includes products from tooth powder to hair pack and shampoo.
The Santhigram Foundation will support low income people suffering from acute ailments including autism in children to get Ayurveda and Panchakarma treatments. Several people in the audience pledged money for the noble cause.
The event began with a presentation by Dr. Drakshayani on Ayurvedic diet and nutrition. When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use, when diet is right, medicine is of no use, she quoted the old saying. Ayurveda is based on the belief that nothing is right for everyone and everything is right for someone, she noted. “With a proper diet and lifestyle, Ayurveda’s goal is to help each person to reach their maximum potential physically, emotionally and spiritually,” she concluded.
The presentation given by Dr. Anurag Nair, a physician of modern medicine and one of the vice presidents of Santhigram noted the renaissance of Ayurveda.
He pointed out that till early 20th century all medical systems were respected equally. But the new inventions changed the western medicine and its effectiveness. Life expectancy shot up and maternal mortality and child deaths came down drastically. But modern medicine came with its side effects. For example, chemotherapy for cancer will affect kidneys and liver badly.
People are now looking for alternative medicines without these side effects and they have found out the value of Ayurvedic treatment. Ayurveda has become a complimentary medicine with modern medicine rather than an alternative medicine.
Gopinath and Ambika Nair share their experiences with the gathering
The program started with a music concert with live orchestra by singers Anitha Krishna and Thahseen Mohammad.
Binu Nair, vice president proposed a vote of thanks to those attended and those who worked to make the event a success, including Tanvi Prenita Chandra, President of Renascent Media for incorporating new style of creative marketing, and Kulraaj Anand of 8K Radio. MCs Sanjiv Pandya of TV Asia and Aanchal Pahwa (Mrs. Bharat USA 2017) who conducted the program admirably received special appreciation.
Srujal Parikh is President and Daxa Amin, Secretary
EDISON, NJ (TIP): Federation of Indian Associations NY/NJ/CT held a General Body meeting at Royal Albert’s Palace, December 28th, 2017.
In the absence of President Andy Bhatia, Executive Vice President Srujal Parikh submitted an annual report. He spoke about various programs which were undertaken during 2017, which included, besides the India Day Parade, Consulate Outreach program and community reception to outgoing and incoming Consul Generals. The report carried special mention and thanks of sponsors who have been generous in their support to FIA programs.
Earlier, Secretary Chhavi Dharayan welcome Board of Directors In absence of President Andy Bhatia.
FIA Chairman and Election Committee announced the new Executive Committee for 2018.
Ankur Vaidya, the chairman of FIA, shared an inspiring narrative of Mr. Jaiswal’s journey, from his early days as an IFS officer to his appointment as the Consul General of India as he recognized his dedication and unwavering commitment to serving Mother India. Mr. Vaidya also praised the Consul General for championing the diaspora and acknowledged Abha Jaiswal for her unwavering support. He recalled how the CG had facilitated millions of dollars in aid sent by organizations from the US. He also commended the CG and his team for their efforts to make the Consulate more accessible and inviting to the public. The Chairman concluded by wishing CG Jaiswal a bright future and success ahead by saying, “May your career shine to bring India and US closer together”.
