HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Association of Indians in America (AIA) is the oldest national association of Asian Indians in America, founded in 1967.AIA’s mission is rooted in promoting the interests of Asian Indians, fostering community engagement, and celebrating our cultural diversity.
In a remarkable evening that blended grace, celebration, and community pride, (AIA), NY Chapter, held its Annual Benefit Gala on June 1st, 2025 at the elegant Pearl Banquet Hall. The event drew over 350 guests, including dignitaries, The Consul General of India in New York and elected officials included Nassau County executive, community leaders, medical and healthcare industry, and other professionals, all gathered to honor five exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions to community.
AIA-NY honored five exceptional individuals, each hailing from different industries, regions of India, and fields of expertise. Their outstanding achievements and excellence in their respective domains made them truly deserving of recognition. We proudly referred to them as the ‘Five Ratnas’ (jewels) of our gala, symbolizing their invaluable contributions to their fields and the community.
1. Dr. Karthik Gujja, M.D., M.P.H.
A Visionary in Cardiovascular and Endovascular Care
- Navneet Sikka, Youth Ambassador, honoring a Visionary Leader, recognizing exceptional achievements in business, entrepreneurship, and social activism, Distinguished Businesswoman, Dedicated Social Activist.
- Dr. Hetal Gor, MD, FACOG – Excellence in OBGYN, Recognizing outstanding contributions in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Director, Women’s OBGYN, CEO, Health Media
4. Devendra Shrivastava, MD, Honoring a Distinguished Medical Leader, Recognizing a respected figure in the medical community for outstanding contributions and dedication to excellence in Medical Director of Dialysis Services,
5. Ramesh C. Gupta, Ph.D. Synthetic Organic Chemistry Expert President, Chem-Master International, Inc. Driving Value through Research and Innovation in New York Founder, R&S Chemicals Pioneering Advances in Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, North Carolina.
The Gala proudly recognized three distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions:
The distinguished honor of the evening was bestowed upon the Chief Guest, Honorable Binaya S. Pradhan Consul General of India.
Leadership Award in the field of education was given to Dr. Christine Mannino, President of Queensborough Community College.The Excellence Tribute in Public Service award was conferred upon Mr. Ashok Lavasa, a retired IAS officer from India, in recognition of his remarkable achievements.
The honor of the evening was bestowed upon Chief Guest, Nassau County, Executive Bruce Blakeman and Honorable Binaya S. Pradhan Consul General of India.
President Beena Kothari extended her sincerest appreciation to all attendees, including distinguished dignitaries, elected officials, special guests, and esteemed honorees. President Beena Kothari congratulated the honorees and expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the AIA team for making the event a resounding success. The President extended her heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Gobind Munjal, National President of AIA, as well as all past National Presidents and NY Chapter Presidents, for graciously attending the Benefit Gala and for their unwavering support.
Messages of best wishes and congratulatory messages from:
Elected officials in attendance included:
- Ambassador Binay S Pradhan, Consul General of India, in New York
- John C. Liu – New York State Senator
- Bruce Blakeman – Nassau County Executive
- Rosemary Walker – Nassau County Legislator
- Seth Koslow – Nassau County Legislator
- Jennifer DeSena – Supervisor, Town of North Hempstead
- Ragini Srivastava – Town Clerk, Town of North Hempstead
- Chandeep Singh represented Senator Charles Schumer’s Office
- Harry Malhotra represented Hon. Joe Saladino – Supervisor, Town of Oyster Bay’s Office
Those who sent their good wishes and congratulations included:
- Thomas P. DiNapoli – New York State Comptroller
- Congressman Tom Suozzi
- Edward P. Romaine – Suffolk County Executive
- Rich Schaffer – Supervisor, Town of Babylon
The beautiful gala commenced with a captivating opening ceremony, featuring
8-year-old Kiana Vyas daughter of Vimal and Harsh Vyas, who performed the Ganesh Vandana.
Sujata Seth melodiously sang the Indian National Anthem.
Maya Kaul rendered the American National Anthem.
Their outstanding performances set the tone for a memorable evening.
An exultant Beena Kothari, President of AIA, New York Chapter, the organizers of the gala stated to The Indian Panorama that the event was a resounding success. The objective of the gala was to raise funds for the upcoming Deepavali festival, which was realized.
Ms Kothari said that she and her team extended their gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event’s success.
“We’re excited to celebrate Deepavali with a grand event showcasing Indian culture, traditions, and Indian-American cultural programs. The event’s success was made possible by the tireless efforts of the NY core team and dedicated volunteers, whose meticulous planning and selfless service brought this milestone celebration to life”, Ms Kothari added.
Ms Kothari expressed her gratitude for the Gala Chair Mr. Kanak Golia, and the Gala Finance Chair Haridas Kotahwala.Save the Date: Our iconic Deepavali event, held annually for 37 years in Manhattan at South street Seaport , will now take place on Long Island at Tanner Park, Copiague.
Join us on October 11th (rain date: October 12th) to continue the Indian traditional Diwali festivities with your family!
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