NEW YORK CITY (TIP): A beautiful evening. A well-dressed gathering to celebrate Diwali at Gracie Mansion, New York City Mayor’s official residence by the waterfront. It was a perfect setting for a great celebration. And the gathering was not disappointed, except for the fact that they waited for some time for the hosts to appear on the scene.
Mayor Bill de Blasio in his 5-minute speech on the occasion said: “Now, it has been a number of years since there was a Diwali ceremony and celebration in Grace Mansion, and we thought it was time to bring Diwali back to Gracie mansion. Because this place – Grace Mansion, yes, it is the people’s house, it is the representation of all of New York City. It’s a home for all New Yorkers, and we can’t have the embodiment of this great city and not have this opportunity to celebrate this great holiday, and we want everyone to experience it together. Now, let me tell you, I want to wish everyone -so, I sometimes get to represent in terms of my statements what all 8.5 million New Yorkers feel in common, and this is something I think we can all agree on. Happy Diwali to everyone!Now, I also want to wish – I want to wish a special greeting to my Sikh brothers and sisters. Let’s see if I get this right – Bandi Chhor Divas! Mayor’s greetings received thunderous applause. But equally thunderous were shouts for a Diwali holiday.
Speaking of New York City’s special characteristics and advantages, de Blasio emphasized the oneness of the City. “We believe when any community – when any community’s attacked or when any individual is attacked because of who they are, because of their faith, because of where they come from – an attack on one is an attack on all of us. And that is something we believe deeply, and you will see whenever any community is affronted the NYPD will be present to protect that community and whenever there’s a hate crime we are very adamant. When we know something’s a hate crime we will call it a hate crime, and we will act on it as a hate crime to protect people and say it is unacceptable in the City of New York to act in any biased fashion against any of the great people that make up this city”.
Mayor de Blasio on this occasion honored Waris Ahluwalia – a Sikh fashion designer, model and actor. “As we have these wonderful gatherings we also get to honor someone, and we are honoring someone very special this evening – Waris Ahluwalia”.
“He is a fashion designer. He is a writer. He is an actor – of course he’s a model, too. And he has an unmistakably New York style, and, as a Sikh, he proudly wears his dastar wherever he goes. And so he sends a powerful message to our city, to our country – countering ignorance, celebrating inclusion, and advocating for religious understanding and tolerance in everything that he does. And we want to celebrate him.”
“It is my honor as the Mayor of New York City to proclaim Wednesday, October 19th 2016, in the City of New York as #WarisAhluwaliaDay “. Waris Ahluwalia spoke of how the Sikhs had to suffer jeers, insults, assaults in the wake of 9/11 because they were mistaken for being Al Qaeda- a hated group which had brought pain and suffering to America. As a Sikh, he said, he stood steadfast and wore all symbols of his faith.
Nisha Agarwal, Immigrant Rights Commissioner, New York City (left); Mayor Bill de Blasio (center) and his wife Chirlane McCray (right) light up the traditional lamp on the occasion of Diwali Celebration at Gracie Mansion, Mayor’s official residence in New York, October 19
Nisha Agarwal, Immigrant Rights Commissioner, New York City speaks on the occasion of Diwali Celebration at Gracie Mansion, official residence for Mayor of the NY City.
New York; October 19, 2016
Photo:-Jay Mandal/On Assignment
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio speaks on the occasion of Diwali celebration at Gracie Mansion, mayor’s official residence in New York.
New York; October 19, 2016
Photo:-Jay Mandal/On Assignment
Mayor Bill de Blasio and New York City’s First Lady Chirlane McCray host a Diwali celebration at Gracie Mansion with Indian American designer and actor Waris Ahluwalia as the honored guest, on Wednesday, October 19, 2016. Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and his wife Chirlane McCray (right), enjoy a lighter moment as Waris Ahluwalia (right), Actor, Designer, Model speaks on the occasion Photo/ Jay Mandal/On Assignment
Thanking the Mayor for the honor, he said, “”I’m a New Yorker. Having been around the world many times, to many of the great cities of the world on numerous occasions, I can confidently say this is the greatest city of them all. It’s given me so much already. I’m honored beyond words and will to continue to uphold the values of this magnificent metropolis.”
Earlier, the Mayor, his wife Chirlane McCray and Nisha Agarwal, Immigrant Rights Commissioner, New York City lighted the lamp to inaugurate the Diwali evening.
Nisha Agarwal, in her opening remarks, spoke about the great contribution of the South Asian American community, in particular, the Indian American community to the growth of the City of New York. She said it was a kind thought of the Mayor to have the community come and celebrate Diwali at Gracie Mansion.
Chirlane McCay, the co-host with her husband said she was happy to welcome the beautiful gathering to Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor.
A number of New York City politicians and public officials were present on the occasion. India’s Consul General Riwa Ganguly Das and the Deputy Consul General Manoj Mohapatra as also a few other Consuls were present.
It was a representative gathering of people from all faiths and walks of life.
No Indian celebration could be complete without the Punjabi Dhol and Bhangra. There surely was a Dholi (drummer) and people performed Bhangra (a Punjabi dance form).
Surely, an evening to remember and to wish for an encore.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): India’s national carrier Air India (AI) made this Diwali very special for Indians living in the USA by offering a unique gift. On October 5 the United States Postal Service released the Diwali Forever stamp at the Consulate General of India where AI announced that they are giving 10 Air India free Return tickets to India for promoting Diwali stamp.
Lighting the lamp – Consul General Riva Ganguly Das lights the lamp. Also seen in the picture are Vandana Sharma, Air India Regional Manager and Diwali Stamp Project Chair Ranju Batra, with others
The Air India Raffle in support of the Diwali Stamp that took place on Thursday, October 20at the Consulate was actually a continuation of Diwali Stamp release celebration.All who purchased Pre-Sale Diwali Stamps through DSP and/or purchased at CGI-NY on the first day – when USPS dedicated and unveiled the stamp were eligible for the Raffle Draw.
In her welcome speech Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, Consul General of India said, “This very prolonged Diwali celebration shows the strength of our community. It reinforces the recognition of Indians here.”
Diwali Stamp Project ChairRanju Batra hailed the ‘Selfless Support’ of AI that helped boost the sale of Diwali stamp that created history by beating every record of first day sale of any stamp in the USA.
Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das welcomes
Vandana Sharma, Regional Manager, Air India in her speech touched upon the ‘Huge emotional connect’ between people of India and Air India that continues generations after generation. “We supported Diwali Stamp Project because it’s symbol of recognition and inclusion for Indian community here.” She also took this opportunity to speak about how AI is regaining its health and expanding in a big way. AI is doubling the number of flights between San Francisco and Delhi, which was launched last year. The flying time is also coming down to 15 hours, as it will take unique route by crossing the Pacific while coming and fly over Atlantic while returning. Similarly, Air India launched a direct flight from Newark to Delhi via London.
After the lucky draw, winners were declared. TV Asia CEO HR Shah, Madan Goel, Neeta Jain, Dr Dhaval Shah, and Ranju Batra got the AI tickets for buying stamps worth 10,000 dollars or more. Others included Shashi Ravi and Surinder Kathuria.
Ravi Batra, Esq., Chair, National Advisory Council South Asian Affairs moderated the event.
Ranju Batra gives her comments
Vandana Sharma, Regional Manager, Air India poses with The Maharaja
A view of the gathering – Photos courtesy of Suresh Maisuria
NEW YORK (TIP): For nearly 20 years, SALDEF has provided trainings to local, state and federal law enforcement agencies as part of the Law Enforcement Partnership Program (LEPP). These presentations are conducted by SALDEF staff and Regional Directors. Among other accolades, SALDEF was recognized by the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) inaugural Community Partnership Award at their National Conference.
This program continues to expand as the following agencies contact us: colleges and universities, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Customs and Border Protection, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
New Jersey
Kiran Kaur Gill and Amman Seehra conducted two trainings this summer in New Jersey. In August, they addressed approximately 40 recruits at the Mercer County Police Academy in New Jersey. The following month, they presented to about 30 officers-including the Chief of Police Chris Nitti-of the Robbinsville, NJ Police Department.
Nevada
SALDEF Board Member Kavneet Singh served on a panel for the EEOC’s Western regional conference this summer. The approximately 60 attendees included employers, HR representatives, and investigators. Kavneet addressed common religious accommodations for Sikh Americans and shared examples of employment-related challenges faced by the community. The EEOC is a federal agency in charge of enforcing federal employment laws that make it illegal to discriminate against job applicants or employees based on religion.
Southern California
This summer, Gurpreet Kaur presented two trainings at the Orange County Sheriff’s Training Academy. She delivered SALDEF’s law enforcement training to more than 100 attendees. The program was sponsored by the county’s Commission on Human Relations.
Massachusetts
In July, SALDEF Regional Director Jaswant Singh Chani conducted a law enforcement training for more than 60 policy academy personnel and supervisory staff at Middlesex Community College, Lowell. Jaswant has now made dozens of presentations to hundreds of officers. SALDEF is inspired by his commitment to this volunteer effort.
If you would like SALDEF to conduct a training in your local community, please email info@saldef.org or call our national office at 202-393-2700.
Thank you for continuing to work with SALDEF to ensure Sikh Americans are accurately represented as a vibrant part of our nation’s fabric. Please make a 100% tax-deductible donation to support SALDEF by clicking here or going to www.saldef.org/donate on your mobile device now. Thank You.
About SALDEF
Founded in 1996, SALDEF’s mission is to achieve equal access and opportunity for Sikh Americans by protecting civil rights, building dialogue, deepening understanding, promoting civic and political participation, and upholding social justice and religious freedom for all Americans.
Contact SALDEF
Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF)
1730 M St NW, Suite 909 Washington, DC 20036 Phone: 202-393-2700 Fax: 202-318-3344
Web: www.saldef.org Email: info@saldef.org (Press Release)
LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): “I am absolutely ecstatic to be here today. This is a great day for Long Island. This Mandir is absolutely beautiful. It is gorgeous,” said, Steven Bellone, Suffolk County Executive during the inauguration of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, in Melville, New York. SadguruPujya Kothari Swami (PujyaBhaktipriya Swami) – one of the most senior Swami of BAPS, and revered swamis from India and North America inaugurated the temple on October 9, 2016.
After two decades of unflinching dedication and thousands of hours of volunteer work, the Mandir stood glistening as the much-anticipated inauguration ceremony started on the morning of October 9, 2016. SadguruPujya Kothari Swami (PujyaBhaktipriya Swami) performed the consecration ceremony in accordance with Hindu Vedic rituals to infuse divinity into the sacred images inside the Mandir in the presence of devotees and well-wishers from across the Tri-state area. The Mandir is the vision of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. It was inaugurated with the blessing of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
Havan Yajna being performed as part of the inauguration
“The inauguration of the Mandir is a dream come true for me,” said, Girish Patel, a lead volunteer for the Mandir. “We were trying to acquire land since a long time and put in a lot of effort for the timely completion of the construction. The inauguration of the Mandir is a great moment of joy and celebration for all of us. Today onwards, the Mandir is open to one and all.” The inauguration was a culmination of a host of events, held over three days. The festivities for the opening began with a melodious “KirtanAradhana” (singing of devotional songs) by BAPS Swamis.
On Saturday, October 8th, a yagna was performed with prayers for family unity and world peace. Speaking on occasion, Steven Bellone, Suffolk County Executive said, “Long Island, Suffolk County, this nation, this world is enriched, has been made better by all of the people inside this room today. There are a lot of problems in the world today, lot of strife, war; we have problems here in our own country, and sometimes when I think about the future I think what is that going to look like. Then I come here and look out into this room and I see an army of people who are good and fighting for good and what is best about humanity in our world today. So I feel good, and I feel confident, and I feel proud about our future. ” Other dignitaries present for the event were Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci, Steve Zimmerman from Newsday Corporation and community leaders from New York and New Jersey. “I have been waiting for this day for years. I can’t believe it it’s finally here and it’s so beautiful, said Sheena Shah, a devotee.
“If one word could sum up the construction of this Mandir, it would be: sacrifice. It was, indeed, the dedication, service, effort and sacrifice of hundreds of volunteers from doctors to lawyers to engineers to architects who completed this Mandir”, said, Hardik Patel. “Whether it was raining or sweltering outside, volunteers came every evening and on all weekends to do everything from heavy duty labor to planning and execution of the smallest thing for making this Mandir.” The Mandir was constructed utilizing a suite of eco-friendly and cost-effective technological advancements including natural lighting techniques, and LED lights to help reduce its carbon footprint. The building includes youth classrooms, a gymnasium, and an assembly hall to host the weekly Satsang or spiritual assemblies.
“The new Mandir will surely be home for cultural, social, and religious activities for the Hindu American community will also be a hub for community service activities. Very soon we will see various activities in the areas of education, environment, health, social welfare, and culture being organized here. The Mandir will help improve the quality of life of individuals and families,” said, Samir Bhatt, a BAPS representative. For more information about the new Mandir and the activities of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, please visit www.baps.org/longisland.
About BAPS: The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, is dedicated to community service, peace, and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through a number of social and spiritual activities at its 3,850 international centers, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots – their rich Hindu culture. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions. Contact: BAPS North American Headquarters – Media Department Phone: 732-777-1414 ext 140 Email: media@na.baps.org
NEW YORK (TIP): Forbes’ ‘The Richest People in America 2016’ list features 5 prominent Indian Americans.
Symphony Technology founder Romesh Wadhwani, co-founders of outsourcing firm Syntel Bharat & Neerja Desai, airline veteran Rakesh Gangwal, entrepreneur John Kapoor and Silicon Valley angel investor Kavitark Ram Shriram are among the 400 richest people in the US.
Wadhwani, CEO of Symphony Technology Group, an empire of 17 data, technology, healthcare and analytics companies that together take in more than $2.8 billion in annual revenue, has been ranked 222nd on the list with a net worth of $3 billion.
Bharat & Neerja Desai, rank 274th on the list with a net worth of $2.5 billion. Their outsourcing firm Syntel generates over $950 million in revenue and has nearly 24,000 employees across the globe, according to Forbes.
Gangwal who co-founded IndiGo and now serves as a board member, is ranked 321 on the list with a net worth of$2.2 billion.
John Kapoor, who is the chairman of two drug outfits, ranks 335 on the list with a net worth of $2.1 billion.
Shriram, who has been investing in young technology startups through his firm, Sherpalo Ventures since 2000, ranks 361 on the list with a net worth of $1.9 billion.
The Consulate General of India (CGI), New York, in association with Diwali Stamp Project (DSP) and Air India (AI)invites media and all eligible Diwali stamp buyers to a reception celebrating the Diwali Stamp on October 20, 2016 at 7pm, when a Raffle-draw by Air India will occur.
All who purchased Pre-Sale Diwali Stamps through DSP and/or purchased at CGI-NY on the first day – when USPS Dedicated and unveiled the Stamp are eligible for the Raffle Draw. They are encouraged to come with their raffle tickets, and if they did not receive a raffle ticket, they should come with proof of Diwali Stamp-purchase, and theywill be given appropriate number of Raffle tickets to be part of this historic draw.
The Air India Raffle in support of the Diwali Stamp will take place on Thursday, October 20, 2016 at the Consulate General of India, 3 East 64th Street (between Madison & 5th Avenues), New York City. 7 PM: Reception and raffle ticket availability. 7.45 PM: AI Raffle Draw. 8..15 PM: Dinner.
RSVP: No later than Tuesday, October 18, 2016, to ranjubatra@aol.com
Organizers thank USPS and Postmaster Megan Brennan and her team for making this Diwali, and every Diwali hereinafter, brighter forever. Happy Diwali!
NEW JERSEY (TIP): The home of an Indian-American social-worker running for the US Congress in New Jersey was vandalized and painted with large swastikas by some unidentified miscreants, prompting police to launch a probe.
“These racists came back to my home and spray painted large swastikas (on) our walls,” said Peter Jacob@PeterJacob2016, 30, who is running for the US House of Representative from 7th Congressional District in New Jersey which is known to be a strong Republican bastion.
Police is investigating the case.
“It is completely un-American and unacceptable that someone should do this in such a beautiful and diverse community,” Mr. Jacob said.
The incident took place on Friday night.
“Let there be no mistake, the people who committed this crime did so because they feel comfortable and confident to commit hateful acts due to an ever increasing atmosphere of accepted racism,” he said.
Endorsed by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, Mr. Jacob, is seeking to unseat incumbent Republican Leonard Lance who is representing the seat since 2009.
Mr. Lance has condemned the incident of vandalism.
“The display of anti-Semitic symbols like the swastika is abhorrent. We join Peter Jacob in condemning this offensive act of vandalism and support a full police investigation into the matter,” Mr. Lance said.
Mr. Jacob, whose parents immigrated from India in 1986, hoped that this would help him enter the Congress.
After attending Union County College, in New Jersey, Mr. Jacob continued undergraduate studies in Sociology at Kean University. Soon after, he studied at Washington University in St Louis, earning a Master of Social Work from the top-ranked program in the nation.
During his undergraduate and graduate years, Mr. Jacob was a student activist and leader.
NEW YORK (TIP): Economist Sonal R. Shah, the first Indian American to be appointed to the transition team of president Barack Obama in 2008, had written in a letter about the “frenzy” Indian media that had accused her of Hindu fundamentalism and alleged her of supporting communal violence in Gujarat, according to materials released by WikiLeaks, on Monday.
A letter written by Shah, published online by WikiLeaks, read: “I am writing to get some guidance from you in managing the India press frenzy about my alleged right-wing politics and terrorist tendencies.”
The letter is dated November 10, 2008, a week after Obama took the office of the president, making history as being the first non-white to win the US presidential election.
The letter says Indian media has been accusing her of Hindu fundamentalism and supporting Hindutva causes, which according to her, was a baseless allegation aimed to tarnish her reputation.
“There are hundreds of blog posts and articles on this and without any responses, the rumors are feeding on each other. More interestingly, they were planning a public campaign to embarrass the president-elect and have me resign. I had several calls from prominent folks in India saying the best way to counter the lies and rumors was to put something out there denying the allegations. Others suggested doing a controlled interview,” Shah wrote.
In reply to her letter, Denis McDonough the Chief of Staff asked Shah to draft a defense for them to look into.
In the ensuing letter drafted by Shah, she wrote: “A presidential transition is always a time of wild rumors and unfounded gossip, so I’d like to set to rest a few baseless reports that have been circulating on the Internet.”
“First, I’ve never been affiliated – in any way, shape or form – with any Indian political party or similar group. To clear up one false rumor: I’ve never been affiliated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), or any such organization. I’ve never been involved in Indian politics, and never intend to do so,” Shah added.
“Second, my personal politics have nothing in common with the views espoused by such groups. I’ve always condemned any politics of division, of ethnic or religious hatred, of violence and intimidation as a political tool,” she further defended.
“Third, some Internet rumors have attempted to link me to Hindu nationalist groups through a variety of tenuous connections: Relief work I’m proud to have helped coordinate following the Gujarat earthquake of 2001, or cultural and religious affiliations of some of my family members, or apolitical humanitarian work… I have no ties to any such groups, and never have,” Shah explained.
Starting from April 2009 until August 2011, Shah served as the Director of Office of Social Innovations and Civic Participation in the White House.
Chicago: An Indian-American Sikh has been made honorary police assistant in US to bridge gap and increase cooperation between policemen and community members in cases of hate crimes and discrimination.
Nanaksar Sikh Temple chief Baba Daljit Singh, 55, was sworn in as a new chaplain to serve the Rockford Police Department and the community.
Mr Singh, the first Sikh to be made honorary police assistant in Chicago, will bridge gap between policemen and community members in cases of hate crimes and discrimination.
“That is the important thing, we religious persons, spiritual persons, will tell the community, the people of Rockford, the police serves you,” he was quoted as saying by 13 WREX.com news website.
“My goal is to serve the humanity and deliver the message of Sikkhism in western community which are the need of the hour,” he said.
Mr Singh, who was administered the oath by chief of police Oshea, said it is important for religious leaders and police to work together for betterment of the community.
His duties include providing support and assistance to police officers, firefighters, other employees and their families during times of crisis.
Mr Singh will assist police officers and firefighters to communicate with victims when required.
The Chaplain Section of the police department also assists people in emergency-like situations.
RICHMOND (KTVU) — A national group is urging that authorities pursue hate charges for two men who allegedly attacked a Richmond man apparently because of his religious beliefs.
The Sikh Coalition, a national group, sent a letter Friday to the Richmond police chief and the Contra Costa District Attorney, urging them to investigate the attack last month on Maan Singh Khalsa.
Khalsa, 41, is a member of the Sikh Center in El Sobrante and a U.S. citizen who works for the Social Security Agency.
Harsimran Kaur, the Sikh Coalition legal director, said Maan Singh Khalsa was attacked near the Hilltop Mall at Blume and Hilltop Drive about 9 p.m. on Sunday Sept. 25. He told police that a white Ford F-150 with as many as six men pulled up and someone threw a beer can at him. When he turned toward Interstate 80 and stopped at a light, he said the suspects approached the car and grabbed him through the window.
Authorities said Chase Little, 31, of Beaumont, Texas, and Dustin Albarado, 35, of Louisiana, were arrested in connection with the incident on felony assault charges. The two posted bail and were released. The Contra Costa County district attorney’s office has not yet said if it will pursue hate crime charges against the suspects.
“They started beating him in the face. They took a knife. His turban got knocked off. They ended up cutting off part of his hair. They said cut his f–ing hair,’” said Kaur, who says Khalsa received severe injuries.
Photos show him with a patch over one eye that is seen in another photo swollen shut. A third photo shows a blackened finger with stitches.
“He may need three root canals, his finger was severely cut by the knife,” Kaur said. “It may need to be amputated. He got a black eye and other cuts and bruises.”
The Sikh Center’s leaders say emotionally, too, is the pain of having one’s hair cut which violates Sikh beliefs.
“We are not supposed to cut our hairs ever. It’s one of our five articles of faith,” said Karanbir Singh, vice-president of the Sikh Center, who says the entire community is stunned.
“He is a very nice man, a very good man. He never fights with anybody,” said Tarlok Singh, a Sikh Center member, who was surprised to see his fellow worshiper’s injuries following the attack.
Khalsa called 911 during the assault and Richmond police arrested Little and Albarado.
“My concern is they said ‘cut his f—ing hair’. so I don’t understand why someone would say that unless that they were they were specifically targeting a person,” said Kaur, who added that Maan Singh Khalsa reported that there were other men in the truck who have not been arrested.
Since Ravi Batra is well known to be deeply involved in the Diwali stamp project from the day of the germination of the idea some seven years ago and his enormous effort along with his wife, for bringing to Indians the proud gift of a Diwali stamp, we thought it worthwhile to speak to him how he looked at the Diwali Stamp saga. The man who is always in a hurry because of his fingers in many pies, did not disappoint. The only favor he asked was that we send him our questions and he would email his answers. He kept his promise. Here are the questions and their answers.
Q. What do you feel about the realization of a dream project?
The goodness, the purity, the beauty of Diwali diya were so beautifully woven together with lustrous colors in the Diwali Stamp USPS unveiled, October 5, in the presence of exultant Indian American community, politicians, lawmakers, officials, media and the USPS staff at the Indian Consulate in New York. The gorgeous stamp is the result of the imagination and artistic touch of a triumvirate. The diya was photographed by Sally Anderson Bruce of New Milford, CT. The stamp was designed by Greg Breeding of Charlottesville, VA. And William J. Gicker of Washington DC was the Art Director of the Project Diwali Stamp.
Photos/ Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia
RAVI: Seven years ago, I thought Ranju was crazy when she came to me and said she wants to get a Diwali stamp – so that our religion, Hinduism, is also recognized as American; I mean that her goal was great and laudatory, but the vehicle of achieving it at such a mass level of a Diwali stamp was a most difficult goal. It was no less difficult than making the first lunar landing by Neil Armstrong in Apollo 11. You will recall the Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walk the moon on July 20, 1969. They had NASA; Ranju only had me to achieve this fabulous, but most difficult goal. After Ranju was already doing Petitions on this for a year or two, she and I said down and discussed all of our dear friends in Congress: because we decided that this social goal needed both grassroots support, which Ranju was spearheading, and a political leader who would partner with Ranju and provide national political leadership – and Carolyn Maloney agreed, and became a tireless advocate as Ranju was relentless at the grassroots level.
Upon the realization of the Diwali stamp yesterday, I was so overcome by this unique and massive acknowledgment: every small Hamlet, village and town across America was tied into one nation by the United States Postal Service – and now, for all time hereafter, in fact forever, Diwali stamp will grace every post office counter and will serve to welcome every American who’s ancestry or faith connect them to India or Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism.
The role of the United States Postal Service is not merely to give United States attorneys like Preet Bharara near universal jurisdiction due to “mail fraud,” rather, its role was to stitch each neighborhood, each community, each Hamlet, each village, town, city and state from sea to shining sea into one nation – what our Stars&Stripes does as a symbol, the USPS did in-fact since its founding.
So, I felt like Buzz Aldrin right behind my very own Ranju, Neil Armstrong, with our dear friend Carolyn Maloney as the Apollo spaceship. I am deeply touched and relish that just as our dear Pope Francis said, both Caroline and postmaster general Megan Brennan actually did: show respect for another person’s religion. So for all the people who wonder why America is the best nation on earth and why we are exceptional, they need look no further than Ranju’s journey to our Diwali stamp!
Q. Mrs. Batra spent a lot of time and energy for that. How did you feel then?
RAVI: Well knowing Ranju, even though she’s quiet and humble, her determination knows no limits. I have watched her work until three and 4 o’clock in the morning at home on the computer designing different types of paper petitions, and various and sundry he acts and ideas that she tried during her journey. On a few occasions, I may have yelled at her to shut off the light because it was 3 or 4 o’clock in the morning and I had to be in court and that she was interrupting my sleep working on her impossible dream.
She would make visits to Washington with our miracle daughter, Angela, our son, Neil now lawyer, getting support from other members of Congress for Carolyn’s House resolutions in support of the Diwali Stamp. In fact, I personally assisted in getting the powerful Eliot Engel, Ranker on the foreign affairs committee and who got chairman Ed Royce, co-chair of the India caucus. I especially enjoyed getting the support of the civil rights giant, our nation’s soulful Conscience, John Lewis, who marched with Martin Luther King and excitedly telling Carolyn that our office should follow up for his support. Of course, we have support from our local members of Congress such as Grace Meng, Gregory Meeks, Nita Lowey to name a few.
Q.What can we do to popularize the stamp in our community?
Ravi Batra, the man behind the woman, Ranju Batra who dared to dream and realized her dream. The enormous leg work he did won him the happiness of his beloved wife. What else could a man desire!
RAVI: After Carolyn and Ranju announced on August 23 at City Hall that the Diwali stamp was going to be issued and the dream was being realized, Ranju reached out to Air India and spoke to the regional manager, Vandana Sharma. Given Air India’s support of the Diwali Stamp Project, and Ranju’s hyper activity, the stamp did not have to crawl, walk, and then run.
Instead, it was airborne just by the pre-sales done by the Diwali stamp project in partnership with the Air India, such that the Diwali Stamp on the First Day is already USPS’s bestseller! So, my hat off to Ranju’s idea and Air India support, to make the Diwali stamp the best in Postal Service history as our community’s very big and very real “thank you” to postmaster general Megan Brennan and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney.
Q.Was the long fight for the stamp worth it?
RAVI: Over 100 years ago on the West Coast, retail establishments after taking down the sign No Irish Need Apply, or Nina, new signs had gone up: no Indians and dogs allowed. So for all those honest and hard-working Indian-Americans who suffered quietly with insult and shame, it is very worth it. for us, currently living, which includes Harinder Bains, the man who IDeed the Chelsea Bomber, and for every other person who celebrates Diwali, it is worth it.
But best of all, for children yet unborn, who feel some connection to our faiths or India, they belong in our full fledged Americans-is only the United States Postal Service can make you. Next to the American passport the next most important American document is the American stamp. No, all of us have both! This is bigger than President Barack Obama being hugged by prime minister Modi on the tarmac in New Delhi, and both prime minister Modi and president Obama supported Ranju’s Diwali stamp impossible dream.
Q.Postal service is gradually being outdated or replaced with email. What do we gain other than a symbolic achievement?
RAVI: Contrary to conventional wisdom, the United States Postal Service even now delivers more than 40% of the world’s mail. The Postal Service, with its post office is all across our nation, and each letter carrier who goes to every single homerun every single neighborhood across our Great Land is the single biggest distribution system in business. All I know is at the Diwali Stamp is already a profitable bestseller for the United States Postal Service from a most overjoyed and grateful community: all of us. Our pride in the Diwali Stamp will be forever, just like the Forever Diwali stamp.
I was already 100% proud of being an American long before Ranju spoke to me of getting Diwali stamp; now, however, I feel that we have made Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism an American Religion – just like Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The equal protection clause of the Constitution has been honored now in full measure, and forever more, and by so doing, we have helped to form a more perfect union as Thomas Jefferson decreed.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Diwali this year is a special one, with the USPS issuing a commemorative Diwali stamp. The month of October is very special for every Indian as it has the honor of having the birthday of one of the greatest sons of India-Mahatma Gandhi. But now onwards, 5th October is going to be very special for millions of Indians living in the USA. It was a moment of great pride for every single Indian American to stand and be counted at the Indian consulate in New York City on October 5, 2016 at the first-day-stamp. The commemorative stamp release is actually a 7-year “saga” of relentless journey of Diwali Stamp Project ChairRanju Batra who had, despite all odds, persevered and won for 1.3 billion Indians a US Diwali commemorative stamp. In her journey, Ranju got overwhelming support from the community and everyone was ecstatic to be part of the history making event.
“I am very honored to be part of history as the United States Postal Service releases the Diwali Forever stamp at the consulate today,” said Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, Consul General of India.
Lighting the Lamp. Consul General of India Riva Ganguly Das lights the lamp to inaugurate the event. Seen in the picture, from L to R: Assemblyman David Weprin, Indian Merchants’ Association President Shiv Dass, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Consul General Riva Ganguly Das, Emcee of the event Ravi Batra (partially seen), Chair, Diwali Stamp Project Ranju Batra, Congresswoman Grace Meng, New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer, Ambassador Hardeep S Puri, Vandana Sharma, Regional Manager, Air India
India’s national carrier Air India was also part of this historic event. Vandana Sharma, Regional Manager, Air India told TIP that they are giving 10 Air India Return tickets to India for promoting Diwali stamp. Air India Maharaja was seen holding the Diwali stamp with Ranju Batra, Vandana Sharma, Ravi Batra, Mohan Kothekar, Aban Chavda and others from Air India, in attendance.
The event was full of entertainment with everything Indian at core – lighting of the lamp, unveiling of the stamp, presentation of Bollywood entertainment with Bhangra and Punjabi Dhol.
The Consulate probably has never seen before such huge crowd, as on this very special and historic occasion. The rooms were packed to capacity, with many standing to watch the proceedings. There were endless lines of people eager to buy Diwali Stamps. In fact, USPS ran short of the stamps. Some of those who had already paid also were disappointed, as they could not get the stamps. Ranju Batra alone had sold 100,000 stamps before the day of retail sale on October 5.
The stamp design is a photograph featuring a traditional diya oil lamp beautifully lit, sitting on a sparkling gold background. Diya lamps are usually made from clay with cotton wicks dipped in a clarified butter known as “ghee” or in vegetable oils.
Sally Andersen-Bruce of New Milford, CT,who photographed the traditional Diwali diya is seen beside the unveiled stamp
Sally Andersen-Bruce of New Milford, CT, photographed the diya. Greg Breeding of Charlottesville, VA, designed the stamp and William J. Gicker of Washington, DC, served as the project’s art director.
The Diwali stamp has been issued as a Forever stamp. This Forever stamp is always equal to the value of the current First Class Mail 1-ounce price. “The Postal Service is honored to issue this Forever stamp that celebrates the Festival of Diwali,” said U.S. Postal Service Vice-President of Mail Entry and Payment Technology Pritha Mehra. “We hope these stamps will light up millions of cards and letters as they make their journey through the mailstream.”
Singing the US National Anthem
Ranju’s biggest supporter – her husband Ravi Batra, Esq., Chair, National Advisory Council South Asian Affairs whoof-issue dedication ceremony of the Diwali served as emcee of the event was elated as well. “Since the start of the American Revolution, destiny has beckoned the United States and India to be the closest allies. The Diwali Forever stamp represents nothing short of respectful inclusive indivisibility: E Pluribus Unum – within America and between two sovereigns.”
In her speech Ranju described how getting USPS issue a Diwali Stamp became part of her daily life. Wherever she went, whomsoever she met – be it President Obama or Prime Minister Modi – she persuaded for the stamp, as she felt that though Diwali holds a great significance for millions of IndianAmericans and well over a billion people across the globe, the United States Postal Service has not recognized this beautiful festival of lights with a commemorative stamp, although it has done so for other major religious and cultural holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Eid.
“While this journey may have taken years, the Postal Service has issued a Diwali stamp that will continue to resonate forever,” said Ranju. “Now for the first time there is a stamp that celebrates Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists as Americans forever. Our heartfelt thanks to all of those who have supported this stamp. The Diwali stamp will be a matter of pride for generations to come.”
Air India Maharaja admires the Diwali Stamp. Air India pitched in to promote the sale of Diwali Stamps by giving away 10 return tickets to India. Seen in the picture, from L to R: Aban Chavda, Marketing Assistant, Air India, two ladies, Mohan Kothekar, District Sales Manager, Ranju Batra, Chair Diwali Stamp Project, Vandana Sharma, RM Air India, Ravi Batra, Emcee of the event.
Though Ranju now has the feather in her crown for winning the ‘battle’, it may rightly be recalled that a few other Indian community leaders here in New York and elsewhere in the US had also tried for Diwali stamp but could not succeed.
One such person who in fact had initiated in this respect is a senior community leader and a business leader of New York Indian American community, Shiv Dass who as President of Jackson Heights Merchants’ Association had as far back as 2003 taken up the issue of a Diwali Stamp. Mr. Dass was very pleased at the unveiling ceremony of the Diwali Stamp and told The Indian Panorama that he felt as if his effort to have a Diwali Stamp had culminated after so many years. He had great praise for Ranju. “We tried a lot but eventually gave up. I’m happy that Ranju finally got this job done which was our dream.”
Mr. Sante Chari who came all the way from Dallas, Texas, showed to The Indian Panorama a couple of letters he had managed to obtain in support of Diwali Stamp from lawmakers a couple of years ago. He mentioned how he had lobbied with lawmakers in Washington DC to have a USPS stamp in commemoration of the Hindu festival of Diwali issued.
India’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Hardeep Singh Puri feels that Ranju’s ‘sensible propagation’ of the agenda brought her the success. “It is not the strength of the number of petitions but doggedness and perseverance on the part of Ranju Batra that she achieved success whereas others dropped midway.’
Grace Meng, member of the United States House of Representatives, representing New York’s 6th congressional district in the New York City borough of Queens, is confident that this stamp will spread message of peace and cultural harmony.
In her journey Ranju had another ‘partner’ in Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) who also relentlessly fought for this cause as she felt that ‘a relatively small action would hold great meaning for millions of people.’ For her, a dream came true.”This stamp represents the triumph of knowledge over ignorance, light over dark and good over evil. These values, these virtues, are more important and relevant than ever before and I am thrilled that after many years of fighting for this stamp it has finally become a reality,” she said.
Last year at an event Maloney said she had written two letters for two head of the states. First one was delivered. Recipient? US President Barack Obama. The second letter was meant for India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi but it could not be posted, as it needed a postal stamp. Not any ordinary one, but a ‘Diwali Stamp.’ Maloney wanted to send the letter to Modi with that stamp only! Now the time has come.
Those who missed buying the stamp on the first day of issue need not despair. They have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase newstamps at local Post Offices, at The Postal Store website at usps.com?shop or by calling 800-782-6724.
They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or othersand place them in a larger envelope addressed to:
People rush to buy the first day issue of Diwali Stamp
Diwali Stamp
Stamp Fulfillment Services
Cancellation Services
8300 NE Underground Drive, Pillar 210
Kansas City, MO 64144-9998
After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. There is a 5-cent charge for eachadditional postmark over 50. All orders must be postmarked by Dec. 5, 2016.
The Postal Service also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery itemspostmarked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog numberand is offered in the quarterly “USA Philatelic” catalog, online at usps.com?shop or by calling 800-782-6724. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800- 782-6724 or writing to:
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Event Guru has announced the celebrities arriving at the Times square Diwali. A press release issued by the organizers said that Shabbir Ahluwaliya, better known as “Rockstar Abhi,”and Sriti Jha, famous as “Pragya” in Kumkum Bhagya, Zee TV’s Saregamapa winner Kushal Paul, as well as contestant Jyotica Tangri, Zee TV’s “Dance India Dance” idol Siddhesh Pai and &TV’s “So You Think You Can Dance” star Kanchi Shah, You Tube sensation Arjun and Karan Tacker, actor and host of &TV’s The Voice India will be part of the October 16 Diwali at Times Square 2016 celebration, which is being presented by &TV and powered by Sling International and Air India. A local, young prodigy, Sparsh Shah, will also join the talent lineup.
“We are thrilled to partner with &TV, and to bring popular Indian TV personalities to Diwali at Times Square 2016,” said Mrs. Neeta Bhasin, CEO of Event Guru. “We are emotionally attached to the characters these stars play as they visit our living rooms daily. It’s quite exciting for fans to see their favorites in person.”
We are very excited to be a part of Diwali at Times Square 2016,” said Sameer Targe, Head of Sales, Zee TV USA. “It is a perfect opportunity for us to reach out to our community and introduce our new Hindi GEC & TV. Our artists and celebrities truly enjoy meeting their fans.”
Shabbir Ahluwaliya and Sriti Jha will be on hand to delight the crowd. The event will showcase soulful performances from Kushal Paul and Jyotica Tangri, singing songs from their performances on the show. Sparsh Shah will also show off his singing talent. Dance performances by Siddhesh Pai and Kanchi Shah will add magic moments to the night. International singer-songwriter Arjun will melt many hearts with his breathtaking singing performance. And Karan Tacker will be our Master of Ceremonies.
Save the date and plan to join the celebrations on Oct 16, 2016, starting at 2:00 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For more information, contact info@diwalitimessquare.com / 212-216-9305
EDISON, NJ (TIP): IFC and Royal Albert’s Palace will be hosting 3 events namely Miss India New Jersey, Miss India Teen New Jersey and Mrs. India New Jersey at Royal Albert’s Palace in November.
“When Miss India New York started in 1980, I had perhaps not even in my wildest dreams imagined that in less than twenty years, we would fledge out to be a mass movement with affiliates in over 40 countries, let alone that we would one day have a live internet webcast and broadcast our most prestigious function, the Miss India Worldwide, to an audience of over 300 million people “said Dharmatma Saran, Chairman/Founder of Worldwide Pageants.
“We are very proud of the fact that we have been able to provide a common platform for the international Indian community through pageantry. We are equally proud of the fact that we have been able to imbibe Indian values, traditions and culture among the youth of Indian origin around the world. We have also been successful in promoting Indian performing arts in the world”, he further added.
The lucky winners of these events will get a chance to go for Miss India USA contest. Anyone interested to take part in these events can e-mail at missnj16@gmail.com.
The last date to register for participation is October 31st 2016. (Press release)
NEW YORK (TIP): ‘Ekal is pulling all stops on village development in India and adopting ground-breaking methodology in the way it operates in rural-tribal areas’ …That’s the profound messagethat came out of Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation’s (EVF) recently concluded “International Conference” in Orangeburg, N.Y.
The 3-day conference, meant for national committees of USA, India, Canada and other countries,was convened not only for brain-storming sessions to critically assess the progress made so far, but also to charter EVF’s course for 2017. Until now, ‘Ekal’ (as it is popularly known), had targeted100,000 villages as its ‘goal’ for integrated development. Now, Ekal wants to reach out to all 600,000-plus rural/tribal areas in India. Considering it is already in 62,000 villages, this was inevitable. Another reason for this ambitious undertakingis that it has picked up tremendous momentum in recent years in terms of enterprising entrepreneurs joining its fold everywhere with innovative ideas and actively pursuingvarious rural projects.
At the conference, Himanshu Shah, CEO of ‘Shah Capital’ and ‘Mohan Wanchoo’, CEO of ‘EC Info systems’ each pledged$100,000 to $200,000 per year, for the next several years to uplifting rural lives. Inspired by PM Modi’s ‘Swachchh Bharat’ initiative, Ekal’s ‘clean environment’ pilot projectis already making its mark in some rural and tribal areas. Moreover, water conservation, organic farming, cottage industries that could empower young girls and women-folksare in full swing in most of the villages. There are 53,000 Ekal schools in operation throughout rural India that benefit 1.5 million children -half of which are girls. Lalan Sharmaji, Village Development Field Director for “Ekal-India”, presented numerous examples of Ekal Alumnus, with full details, who have distinguished themselves by obtaining prestigious district and state-level jobs, aftergraduating from Ekal schools. There are plans under way to carry out impact-studies by collecting and analyzing data on all Ekal alumni. It is widely known that Ekal renders all assistance without any credence to caste, creed and religion and its overhead is just 10%. What is more! When Ekal-Team met PM Modi this year, he not only applauded Ekal Vidyalaya’s efforts all across rural India, but also, termed it as an extension of ‘Skill India’ campaign.
Bajarang Bagraji, CEO of ‘Ekal Abhiyan’ (umbrella Orgz of ‘Ekal’) unveiled an ambitious plan ofmultifaceted development of villages for 2017 at this Conference. According to him,’ Ekal will add 5,000 new schoolsspecifically in conflict-zones and enhance the quality of training by resorting to digital technology. For youths, 5 more ‘Ekal-on-Wheels’ digital training-vans are being added, bringing the total of such facility to 9. Each of these ‘modern-technology’ labs have capacity to train 5,000 youths each year. He further added that ‘Anemia’, which is so prevalent among rural women-folks, would be expressly addressed in 300 villages and soon a pilot project of ‘tele-medicine’ would be started in West Bengal. As for agro-projects, 15,000 nutritional gardens and 25,000 acres of organic farming are being addednext year. Currently, a ‘Gramotthan Resource Center’ (GRC) at ‘Karanjho’, Jharkhand is the only encyclopedic information ‘citadel’ for villagersto learn modern techniques. It caters to 100 surrounding villages, directly benefitting 100,000 rural folks, and indirectly, affecting almost one million people. Bagraji elaborated that 11 such ‘GRC’s are under way for next year.
A conference session in progress#
The Event-Committee, headed by Dilip Kothekar and Prajna Khisti, is taking a departure from engaging Bollywood ‘Song & Dance Troupe’ for annual ‘Fund-raising Concerts’. For the first time, an innovative group of a dozen talented Artistes from Ekal-villages will be presented in most amazing one-of-a-kind entertainment program consisting of regional folk-songs & dances of India, skits from Ramayan-Mahabharat, folklore episodes etc. Curretly, they are all being guided and trained by the best professionals in stage performances. Ekal believes this pioneering effort to bring ordinary but talented, village-folks to the forefront of this continent in 60-plus Ekal events will promote their ethnic artistry and will give them consistentpatronage at national and international level.Starting with this conference, Ekal-USA isenteringinto ‘Social-Media’ arena with vengeance. The technology-savvy team, headed by Akshay Joshiincludes AvinashAgarwal, Vinita Dogra, Arti Aggarwal and Sheetal Gupta. It will be guided by Prashant Shah, a new member of Ekal-USA ‘Board of Directors’ and shall be advised by Prakash Waghmare and Ranjani Saigal, as necessary. In short, there is new dawn at ‘Ekal Vidyalaya’ on every level.
CHICAGO, IL(TIP): Verandah Retirement Community gained successful approvals and substantial financial support from the local authorities and is now ready to start construction. Verandah’s developer, AMAN Living LLC – president Dr. Anuja Gupta announced ground-breaking ceremony and start of construction Oct 1st 2016.
The property is located at 900 Irving Park Rd in Hanover Park, Illinois. Hanover Park was selected for its central location and proximity to other attractions in the Schaumburg area including many temples, grocery stores and restaurants. The area is also well-located with easy access to the Elgin-O’Hare expressway. Downtown Chicago is 40-45 mins and O’Hare airport is 20 mins away. Two excellent medical facilities are close to the property. All these features made it the perfect location for the project.
Verandah will have for-sale townhomes and condominiums, a big clubhouse, and medical facilities for use of the residents. The townhomes include 2 bedroom/2 bathroom and 3 bedroom/2.5 bathroom units starting at $275,000. The condominiums will be in a 5-story building with elevators and include 2 bedroom/2 bathroom and 1 bedroom/1 bathroom units starting at$150,000. All housing is especially designed for senior living and includes convenience features like main level master bedrooms, no exterior maintenance and extensive amenities.
The clubhouse is planned to be the heart of the community. It includes a dining facility which will serve vegetarian food for lunch & dinner daily. There will be many spaces for socialization and activities such as a community room, a gym, a library/computer room, a beauty shop and activities studio.
NEW YORK (TIP): The Indo American Press Club (IAPC) is hosting its 3rd International Media Conference on October 8-9 at Hilton Stamford Hotel in Connecticut with leading media professionals, dignitaries and lawmakers from US, Canada and India.
Dr Ajay Lodha
Darshan Singh Bagga
Mukesh Modi
H.R. Shah
Speaking at the inaugural session will be India’s Deputy Consul General in New York, Mr. Manoj K. Mohapatra, H.R. Shah, Chairman, TV Asia, Dr. Ajay Lodha, AAPI National President, and Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO.
Over 100 senior print, TV and web professionals will deliberate on challenges and opportunities facing the media.
A highlight of the conference is a ‘Presidential Debate’ on Oct 9 between Prof. AD Amar, Founder of Indian Americans for Trump 2016, and Congressional candidate from New Jersey’s 7th district, Peter Jacob. The debate will be moderated by Prof Indrajit Saluja, Chief Editor-Publisher of The Indian Panorama newspaper.
Noted media guests and dignitaries flying down from India include Kodiyeri Balakrishnan (CPM’s Kerala chief), Abdul Wahab (Rajya Sabha member), Dr. J Alexander IAS (Ex-Karnataka minister), P.T Chacko, R.S. Babu, Pradeep Pillai, Mangad Ratnakaran, MV Nikesh Kumar, Meera Nair, J.S Indukumar and N.R Harikumar.
There will also be sessions in Malayalam for guests from India.
At the awards gala dinner on Oct 9 the IAPC souvenir will be released and the IAPC Sathkarma Award announced for a social activist from India, Theruvoram Murugan.
IAPC will honor media professionals and community leaders from India and America for their achievements and services to society.
IAPC was formed in 2013 – and has 8 chapters by now – with the lofty ideal of providing a common platform to media professionals of Indian origin living in North America, fostering closer bonds with IAPC?s counterparts in India and to strive for betterment of society at large.
The current president of IAPC is Parveen Chopra, Managing Editor of The South Asian Times while Ginsmon Zacharia, publisher of a Malayalam newspaper is the Chairman.
IndiGo Airlines’s Rakesh Gangwal is the newest Indian American among the “Forbes 400 Richest Americans,” according to the magazine’s list released Oct. 4.
Rakesh Gangwal, who debuts on The Forbes 400 with an estimated $2.2 billion net worth, was born in India and got his M.B.A. at Wharton in the 1970s.
Airline veteran Rakesh Gangwal made his fortune from InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of his budget airline IndiGo, India’s largest by market share.
The India born mechanical engineer studied at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur before getting his M.B.A. at Wharton.
He started his airline career with United Airlines in 1984 in strategic planning, then worked briefly for Air France.
He cofounded IndiGo near Delhi with one aircraft a decade ago. Now it’s India’s largest budget airline by market share.
Gangwal is ranked #321 on the overall Forbes List and number #10 in the Forbes 400 – Newcomers list and #36 on the Forbes 400 – Immigrants list.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The Association of Indians in America, NY Chapter (AIA-NY) celebrated their 29th Annual Deepavali Festival at the South Street Seaport in New York City on Sunday October 2nd, 2016 from 12 noon till 7pm.
The event was attended by thousands of people throughout the day that enjoyed Indian culture, food, heritage, live performances and a spectacular display of Live Fireworks. Deepavali was a full day extravaganza with highlight performances by North American artist Mickey Singh & The Jungle Book actor, Neel Sethi.
The AIA Team responsible for the success of the 29th Annual Deepavali FestivalThe highly sought after inter-collegiate dance competition, Naach Inferno, in its third year saw first-time entrants Rutgers Bhangra as their winner this year. Arya International interacted the audience with Bollywood moves and made the entire crowd dance. Mickey Singh had the entire youth audience along with their families light up South Street Seaport with glow sticks, cheers and hands up in the air. Neel Sethi interacted with the audience and answered questions on how he became Hollywood’s most adorable and successful new star. Numerous local performing arts schools and academies also showcased their talents on both stages throughout the day. This year, Deepavali also marked the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. There was a special tribute for Gandhiji along with an Essay & Drawing Competition for the youth to showcase the importance and meaning of Peace. Winners of the competitions were acknowledged and awarded by Neel Sethi on stage in front of the audience. The event culminated with a VIP Hour which was attended by Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, Counsel General of India in NY; Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer; Public Advocate Letitia James among many other business leaders and community leaders of the Indian American community in NY. Live Fireworks sponsored by CheapOair & Qatar Airways from the East River illuminated the New York City skyline and served as the Grand Finale.
This year, support from sponsors such as CheapOAir.com, Qatar Airways, Toyota, Pepsi, New York Life, Swan Club, MoneyGram, Kotak Bank, New York Life, HAB Bank, Navika Capital, Star Plus, Sony Entertainment, Jus Punjabi, TV Asia amongst many others have helped made the event possible.
The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is one of the oldest not-for-profit organization of Asian Indians in America founded on August 20, 1967. It is the grassroots national organization of Asian immigrants in the United States. With chapters and membership spread across the United States of America, AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage and American Commitment.
Tampa, Florida: There were no streams of confetti when the winner spelled her final word at the North South Foundation spelling bee.
Unlike the glamorous Scripps National Spelling Bee, no trophy was handed out. The top 12 spellers faced off in a lecture hall with seating for 200, not a ballroom with space for thousands. When competitors missed a word, they didn’t retreat to a “crying couch” to commiserate with their families and do TV interviews before an audience of millions. They just shuffled off stage and sat in the crowd. Instead of $45,000 in cash and prizes, the winner got $500.
Yet it’s likely that next year’s National Spelling Bee champion spent a Saturday in August at the North South Foundation’s national finals.
The last dozen winners of spelling’s biggest prize have been Indian-Americans who share more than heritage. Every single one has participated in bees staged by the nonprofit foundation, which was launched in 1989 to raise scholarship money for poor kids in India.
Among the many reasons for Indian-Americans’ dominance of spelling, perhaps none is as important as the training and competitive experience they get from the foundation, where many participants start as early as first grade. The foundation organizes one of two national spelling bees exclusively for kids with South Asian heritage.
“The National Spelling Bee is the major leagues. We’re the minor league feeding into the major leagues,” NSF founder Ratnam Chitturi said.
He launched the spelling bee as a way to serve children of Indians who immigrated to the United States. Now the foundation also has competitions in other subjects, including math, science, vocabulary, geography, public speaking and essay writing. The last five winners of the National Geographic Bee also honed their skills in NSF competitions.
But they are not open to children without Indian heritage. Chitturi said he fields one or two requests a year from parents who seek to enroll children of other ethnicities. The all-volunteer organization simply lacks the resources to host bees for everyone, he said.
More recently, another high-stakes bee has emerged: the South Asian Spelling Bee, which launched in 2007 and has its national finals every year at Rutgers University in New Jersey. It carries a substantial cash prize – $10,000 for the winner – and some spellers believe the words are even tougher than those used at the National Spelling Bee.
Paige Kimble, the longtime executive director of the National Spelling Bee, said she has not heard any complaints that Indian-Americans have an unfair advantage because they come up through the minor-league bee system. Two decades ago, she fielded questions about whether home-schooled kids had an edge, a controversy that has largely faded.
“We heard far more concerns then about fairness, and we just don’t hear that now,” Kimble said. “What I would say is the edge goes to the individual, regardless of heritage, who works the hardest.”
The emergence of the NSF and South Asian bees reflects the importance that Indian-American families place on academic achievement, said Sanjoy Chakravorty, a professor of geography and urban studies at Temple University and the co-author of an upcoming book, “The Other One Percent,” about the wealthy, highly educated Indian-American community.
The emphasis on rote memorization in the Indian education system creates a level of comfort for parents who coach their kids for spelling contests, Chakravorty said. And because the community does not place a great emphasis on sports, Indian-Americans have a potential advantage over kids who pursue a wide range of activities.
Spelling bees require concentration and poise, the ability not to freeze in pressure situations. It’s at NSF where participants learn the techniques of top spellers. They take their time, repeating the word several times and asking for the definition, the part of speech and the language of origin.
This year’s National Spelling Bee co-champion, Nihar Janga, took the title in his first attempt at age 11. But he started with NSF in kindergarten and finished second in last year’s bee.
“I gradually built up all that confidence and poise on stage,” Nihar said. “NSF prepared me because it was really competitive.”
The high level of competition also creates some intense rivalries. This year’s NSF bee was the last of many duels between the top two finishers.
Two years in a row, Ananya Kodali and Smrithi Upadhyayula went head-to-head at the Scripps regional bee in Dallas, and both times, Smrithi came out on top.
Smrithi went on to finish fifth at the National Spelling Bee. She believes Ananya could have fared just as well. But Ananya never got the chance.
“In the beginning, I was kind of bitter, like, ‘Why didn’t I get to make it? I’m sure I’m as good as those people up there,’” Ananya said. “But I’ve kind of accepted it.”
Both girls were about to start ninth grade when they squared off for the NSF title in August on the University of South Florida campus. That meant the bee would be their last.
This time, the words were kinder to Ananya. After Smrithi stumbled on “stigmonose,” a disease in plants, Ananya sealed the title with “glace,” which means having a smooth, glassy surface. The crowd saluted her with a standing ovation.
Ananya also finished second at the South Asian Spelling Bee – twice, including this year, when she beat Smrithi in the regionals.
The spelling bee wasn’t Smrithi’s only competition that day.
“I also did the vocabulary bee afterwards,” she said.
Johannesburg: A 16-year-old Indian-origin South African teen has won a USD 50,000 scholarship at the annual Google Science Fair in the US for using orange peel to develop a cheaper “super-absorbent material” that helps soil retain water.
Kiara Nirghin, a Grade 11 student at private school St Martin’s, submitted her project titled ‘No More Thirsty Crops’ which was aimed at alleviating the severe drought plaguing South Africa.
Her solution to the problem of drought uses the peels from orange and avocado fruits, which were normally discarded. The Google Science Fair is a programme for any budding scientists between the ages of 13 to 18, who are invited to solve world’s biggest challenges using science and technology.
“I have always had a great love for chemistry since I was young. I vividly remember at the age of seven experimenting with vinegar and baking soda solutions in plastic cups,” Nirghin said in her submission, in which she cited a renowned Indian scientist as her greatest inspiration.
“M S Swaminathan, has always been an inspiration of mine as he truly believed in the necessary movement of not only India but the whole world towards sustainable agricultural development,” she said.
“I hope to one day become a scientist specialising in agricultural science and also become a molecular gastronomist,” she added.
Nirghin explained how she had found an alternative in the fruit peels to super-absorbent polymers (SAPs), which absorb and carry about 300 times its weight in liquid relative to their own mass.
“These SAPs are not biodegradable, costly and full of acrylic acid, sodium hydroxide and other chemicals. During more research in the topic, I found that natural occurring polymers exist in most citrus fruits,” Nirghin said.
After 45 days of experimentation, Nirghin was successful in creating a low-cost super-absorbent polymer, made out of waste products found in the juice manufacturing industry, that is biodegradable, can retain large amounts of water, keep soil moist and improve crop growth without regular water supplements.
“The only resources involved in the creation of the ‘orange peel mixture’ were electricity and time, with no special equipment or materials required,” she said.
Nirghin’s discovery has huge financial implications for agriculture, as her creation could retail at USD 30 to USD 60 per metric tonne, as compared to the USD 2,000 plus costs of SAPs.
The young scientist is convinced that her mixture will help assist farmers in agricultural drought disaster areas, where food security could increase by 73 per cent.
Now Nirghin has set her sights on using orange peel SAP in experiments testing water filtration and oil removal from water.
“I would also like to make large amounts of orange peel SAP and apply it to crops such as maize and wheat in poorer communities in South Africa,” she added.
HOUSTON, TX (TIP): The Indo-American Press Club -Houston Chapter recently organized and hosted a debate and discussion on the upcoming Presidential election. Its purpose was to impart political education, enhance political awareness and increase participation of the Indian community in the political process. The presidential discussion with representatives from both the Trump and Hillary campaigns, held at Stafford Civic Center in Houston on Sept 11, was attended by a large number of Indian Americans, political personalities and community leaders. IAPC is a non-profit formed three years ago to create a common platform for media professionals in USA and Canada, thus giving them a powerful voice in the media world and larger society.
The event also worked as a soft launch of IAPC’s Houston chapter with Easo Jacob as its president. In his welcome remarks, he said, the presidential debate followed the motto of the press club, which is “Informed Action Promotes Change.”
After Mike ONeill, President of The Houston Press Club, opened the event, Cyriac Scaria, IAPC National Committee member, spoke on “Path to Mainstream,” stressing why Indian Americans should shed their shyness about politics and participate actively in the process.
Some of the dignitaries present included Hon. Judge Joel Clouser, HCC Trustee Neeta Sane, Ken Mathew – Pro Tem Mayor of Stafford, Dr. Kendell Baker -State Representative Candidate, Len Swanson -Advisor to Donald Trump, Democratic Party Fort Bend County Chairwoman Cynthia Gyn, and State Representative Candidate Sarah DeMerchant.
Presentations were made by the panel of political experts favoring the Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton and Republican candidate Donald Trump. The debate was moderated by Attorney Scott Brasington. Republican side included Dr. Kendell Baker, Dr. Nik Nikam, Ramesh Cherivirala, Sangeeta Dua, and Len Swanson, and Democratic side was helmed by State Representative Ron Raynolds, KP George, Amee Patel, and veteran journalist Jawahar Malhotra.
The partisan and fiery rhetoric from both sides excited the audience to help them to contrast the two candidates and vote their conscience in the election Nov 8.
The entertainment during the evening was provided by singer Grady Long who sang several songs in different languages.
The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Babu Jesudas of IAPC, and was followed by dinner. Lakshmi Peter emceed the event.
About 40 prominent Indo-American media professionals in the greater Houston area were recognized at the event, which was supported by other community organizations.
Afterwards, Len Swanson said in an email: “I felt I was successful in presenting and discussing privately with key Indian leaders and other guests as to why the GOP had more to offer to the Indian community given our mutual conservative and entrepreneurial values than the Democratic Socialists.
“In fact I was the only speaker who was applauded mid-way through my presentation as I hit upon the key points that the Indian community here in Houston did come to the US ‘legally’ not ‘illegally’, that their community is especially a very successful model of ‘How to’ that other communities should emulate.”
Media Conference: The Indo-American Press Club is holding its 3rd Media Conference during the Columbus Day weekend (Oct 8-10, 2016) at the Hilton Stamford Hotel and Executive Meeting Center in Stamford, Connecticut. IAPC’s chairman is Ginsmon Zacharia and current President is Parveen Chopra.
Los Angeles: YouTube sensation and young chef Nihal Raj, also known as Kicha, showcased his cookery skills on the popular American chat show “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”.
Kicha, who hails from Kochi, found fame after starting KichaTube HD channel on the video-sharing site. Till now he has featured in 33 videos. Launched in January last year, the channel now has over 6000 subscribers.
While introducing him on the show, Ms DeGeneres said: “Well, if you have ever wondered why Ellen hasn’t had an adorable six-year-old chef from India, then today is your day. Please welcome Kicha.”
Nihal seemed to be having a lot of “fun” during his maiden visit to the US as when the host asked him about his experience, he said: “It’s been fun.”
On the show, which was aired in the US on Friday, Kicha told Ms DeGeneres how to make Puttu — a traditional Kerala breakfast dish.
After eating the dish, DeGeneres appreciated Kicha and said: “It’s very delicious.”
The Broadcom Foundation and Society for Science & the Public (the Society) announced on September 20 the selection of 30 middle school students as finalists in the 2016 Broadcom MASTERS® competition.
At least ten Indian American students are among the 30 finalists in the sixth annual Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering for Rising Stars).
The winners will be named on November 1 in Washington, DC, after completion of a rigorous competition that tests their abilities in STEM subjects, teamwork and collaboration. Congratulations to these 30 finalists, and to the 2,343 outstanding applicants for sharing their work this year.
• The finalists include 15 girls and 15 boys covering 15 states and representing 28 schools and one home school. California has the most finalists with eight, followed by Florida and Georgia with three, and two each from Louisiana, Maryland, Texas and Virginia.
• Finalists were selected by a panel of distinguished scientists and engineers from among 300 semifinalists and 2,342 applicants representing 49 states and 4 U.S. territories.
“There is a sense of urgency to inspire more young people to become the scientists and engineers of the future,” said Paula Golden, President, Broadcom Foundation.
“Our quality of life depends upon solving the grand challenges in health care, transportation, communication, environmental protection and sustainability. Broadcom Foundation is honored to partner with Society for Science & the Public to reach hundreds of thousands of young people with an important message that they can become the STEM innovators who will tackle these 21st century challenges. We look forward to celebrating the extraordinary achievements of this year’s Broadcom MASTERS finalists who are exemplars of inspired young science fair participants throughout the United States at the sixth annual Broadcom MASTERS,” added Golden.
A Look at the Indian Origin Finalists
Daven Yadav, 8th Grade
The Westminster Schools, Atlanta, Georgia
Bruxism: Using Myoelectric Signals to Treat a Health Problem
Akhilesh Balasingam, 7th Grade
Challenger School, San Jose, California
Galloping Prisms: On the Optimal Design of a Novel Aeroelastic Energy Harvester for Remote Environmental Sensing
Maya Chandar, 6th Grade
Canterbury School, Fort Meyers, Florida
The Effects of Ultrasound Waves vs. Laser Beams on the Regrowth of Lumbriculys variegatus (A Novel Study)
Ananya Ganesh, 8th Grade
The Westminster Schools, Sandy Springs, Georgia
Bruxism: Using Myoelectric Signals to Treat a Health Problem
Adishree Ghatare, 8th Grade
Challenger School, San Jose, California
A Software Application as a Learning Platform for Increasing Memory Retention of Definitions of Words
Ashini Modi, 6th Grade
Caddo Middle Magnet School, Shreveport, Louisiana
Dark Matter: The Hidden Universe
Anushka Naiknaware, 7th Grade
Stoller Middle School, Portland, Oregon
Chitosan and Carbon Nanoparticle based Biocompatible Sensor for Wound Management
Aalok Patwa, 7th Grade
Stratford Middle School, San Jose, California
Do I Grind? A Wearable System That Detects Bruxism Ahead of Its Effect on Teeth
Shreya Ramachandran, 7th Grade
Stratford Middle School, Fremont, California
The Effect of Soap Nut Grey Water on the Environment
Emhyr Subramanian, 8th Grade
Challenge School, Aurora, Colorado
A Study of Super-Absorbent Polymers and Their Effectiveness in Organic Waste Extraction
NEW YORK (TIP): The American Academy of Audiology has named Dr. Vinaya Manchaiah, an Indian American associate professor and director of audiology at Lamar University, to the 2016 class of Jerger Future Leaders of Audiology.
Manchaiah is one of only a dozen individuals selected nationally for the honor.
Manchaiah is the Jo Mayo Endowed Professor and holds a Ph.D. in disability research from Linkoping University, Sweden, an executive M.B.A. from Swansea University, United Kingdom, the Doctor of Audiology from Nova Southeastern University, M.S. in Audiology from the University of Southampton, and a Bachelor’s of Science in Speech and Hearing from the University of Mysore, India.
“He exemplifies the role of teacher, researcher and collaborator. His contributions have put the program of audiology at Lamar University in the national and global spotlight,” said Monica Harn, Diane H. Shaver Professor in Speech and Hearing Sciences and chair of the university’s Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences.
In addition to his prolific research and teaching, Manchaiah is co-founder and director for strategic planning for the non-profit non-governmental organization Audiology India, for which he served as president from 2011 to 2015. The organization seeks to foster ear and hearing health care in India.
The American Academy of Audiology is the world’s largest professional organization of, by, and for audiologists. The active membership of more than 12,000 is dedicated to providing quality hearing care services through professional development, education, research, and increased public awareness of hearing and balance disorders.
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