The Indian Panorama

Tag: Ilayas Quraishi

  • Vibrant Eid Celebrations: Indian Muslim Community Lights Up New York’s Consulate General of India

    Vibrant Eid Celebrations: Indian Muslim Community Lights Up New York’s Consulate General of India

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): On April 21, 2024, the Indian Muslim Community (IMC) of NY/NJ/CT continued its tradition of showcasing unity and strength by hosting the Eid Celebrations 2024 at the Consulate General of India (CGI) in New York. The event began with a stirring Quran recitation and translation by Sumayya Ahmed, setting the tone for a day filled with cultural richness and community spirit.

    Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Varun Jeph, Acting Consul General of India in New York, highlighted the significance of Eid in India’s cultural landscape, emphasizing its reflection of the nation’s millennia-old composite culture and unity in diversity. He underscored the importance of celebrating diversity, a value shared by both India and the diverse city of New York.

    Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer addressing the audience via his video message.

    Despite being unable to attend in person, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer conveyed his heartfelt wishes through a video message, emphasizing the theme of unity in love and faith during challenging times marked by division and bigotry.

    New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Indian woman elected in the state, shared her deep connection with the Muslim community and her efforts to empower it. She highlighted initiatives such as expanding halal food options in public schools and ensuring the allowance of the Muslim call to prayer in New York City.

    Ilayas Quraishi receiving New York State Assembly’s special citation from Jenifer Rajkumar

    Special citations from the State of New York were presented to IMC’s founding member Ilayas Quraishi and others, recognizing their contributions to the community. Quraishi expressed humility and gratitude for the community’s support in preserving the tradition of celebrating Eid at the CGI in New York.

    Reflecting on the journey of Indian Muslims in the United States, Quraishi emphasized the shared humanity and values of compassion, generosity, and unity that Eid represents. He acknowledged the responsibility of representing over 200 million Indian Muslims and Indian American Muslims in the United States.

    IMC’s core committee members along with Dr. Varun Jeph, Jenifer Rajkumar, Yusuf Salaam and representatives of New York State Governor, New York City Mayor, and New York City Public Advocate.

    New York State Senator John Liu acknowledged the significant Muslim population in India and the thriving Indian American community in New York, emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity.

    Full house at the Eid Celebration

    Councilman Yusef Salaam highlighted the symbolic significance of Eid, representing gratitude, brotherhood, and unity among Muslims worldwide.

    Deputy Public Advocate Kashif Hussain expressed gratitude for the invitation and presented citations from the New York Public Advocate to community members for their contributions.
    The event also received messages of support from New York Governor Kathy Hochul and presentations from various community leaders, including Sibu Nair, Deputy Director of Asian American Affairs for New York State.

    A ghazal performance being presented by Suman Laskar.
    Sumayya Ahmed recited the Quran to start the event.
    Zoha Ahmed explained the significance of Eid at the event.
    Surya Makkar played traditional drums at the event.

    The celebrations featured a diverse range of cultural performances, including explanations of Eid’s significance, ghazal performances, traditional drumming, and stand-up comedy, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Indian Muslim community.
    The Indian Muslim Community’s Eid Celebrations at the Consulate General of India in New York served as a testament to the community’s resilience, unity, and commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding in society.
    (Based on a press release issued by Ilayas Quraishi)

  • AICC Unveils New Leadership and Elected New Board for 2024-26

    AICC Unveils New Leadership and Elected New Board for 2024-26

    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:

    1. Rajeev Krishna
    2. Rekha Sarathy
    3. Chetan Wattamwar
    4. Harry Mehta
    5. Ilayas Quraishi
    6. Komal Dangi
    7. Ajay Kumar
    8. Neha Mahajan
    9. Parag Nevatia
    10. 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.

    For further information, please contact:

    Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce

    Administrator

    Office Tel: 732-847-4760

    Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce

    PO Box 266

    Iselin, NJ 08830

    www.aicc.net

    About the Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce

    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.

     

  • Display of the rich cultural heritage of India at the Eid celebrations at the Indian Consulate

    Display of the rich cultural heritage of India at the Eid celebrations at the Indian Consulate

    NEW YORK (TIP): The Consulate General of India in New York and the Indian American Muslims of USA celebrated Eid al-Fitr with great enthusiasm and fervor. The event was attended by elected officials and other community members who extended their greetings and met with members of the Muslim community. The event started with a Quran recitation by a 13-year-old student, Soha Naz, who also presented a presentation about the Ramadan month and Festival.

    The event was organized by Indian American Muslims under the leadership of Ilayas Quraishi, Ahmed Shakir, Ghulam Mohiuddin, Khaja Khateeb, Kazi Munir, Imran Pasha, Mudassir, Aslam, Syed Hussain, Minhaj Khan, and many others who highlighted the celebration of Eid as a shining example of the diverse cultures that coexist in India and America. The Consul General of India New York, in his speech, spoke of the rich cultural heritage of India and the flavor of India, where festivals are celebrated with great zeal. He thanked the organizers and wished all the Muslims a joyous Eid.

    Robert Jackson, a New York State Senator, not only attended the event but also addressed the audience and extended Eid greetings to the community. Another New York State Senator, John C. Liu, also greeted the audience at the event, emphasizing the importance of unity and inclusivity.

    Dilip Chauhan, who is currently serving as Deputy Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Innovation for NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ Office for International Affairs, also graced the occasion with his presence and extended Eid greetings to the community. It was heartening to see such a diverse group of people come together to celebrate a festival that is important to Muslims all over the world.

    Chuck Schumer, Majority Leader of the United States Senate and New York Senator addresses the gathering via video message. Photo credit / CGNY

    The highlight of the event was when Senate Majority Leader and New York Senator, Chuck Schumer, addressed the audience through a video message. He extended his heartfelt greetings to the Muslim community and emphasized the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in America. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also greeted the community with a personal message and sent his Eid Mubarak wishes.

    Randhir Jaiswal Consul General of India getting a plaque of appreciation. Seen, from left to right: Robert Jackson State Senator New York, Ahmed Shakir and Ilayas Quraishi organizers of Eid event. Photo credit / CGNY

    Several people were honored at the event, including Mr. Randhir Jaiswal, Consul General of India in New York, Dr. Ashraf M. Dahod, a community supporter, and a successful entrepreneur, A. K. Vijayakrishnan, Consul (Community Affairs), Shahana Bagban (Community Affairs), Mr. Robert Jackson, New York State Senator, John C. Liu State Senator New York, and Mr. Imran Pasha, a community leader, and other members of the community who have significantly contributed to promoting diversity and inclusivity.

    Robert Jackson New York State Senator getting plaque of appreciation, left to right: Ahmed Shakir, Khaja Khateeb, and Ilayas Quraishi organizers of the event. Photo credit / CGNY

    The celebration of Eid at the Consulate General of India was not just a religious event, but also a great reminder of the cultural diversity that America and India cherish. It was wonderful to see elected officials and members of the community come together to celebrate the festival with great enthusiasm and positivity.

    The event concluded with a short poetry performance by Mohammed Darbar and a Ghazal Mehfil by Singer Suman Laskar and Gokul on Tabla, who enthralled the audience.

    Overall, the celebration of Eid at the Consulate General of India was a testament to the fact that America and India cherish and celebrate the diverse cultures that coexist in these great nations. The event was a joyous occasion that highlighted the importance of inclusivity, acceptance, and diversity.

    (Based on a press release)