MERRICK, NY (TIP): Nassau County Legislator Seth I. Koslow (D – Merrick) is once again partnering with Northwell Health’s Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital to provide free flu shots for seniors at the Merrick Library on Friday, Oct. 3 and at the North Merrick Library on Friday, Oct. 10. No appointment is required for either of these clinics, which are both scheduled for 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
“Flu shots are an indispensable tool for keeping ourselves safe and healthy during the winter months, and it is an especially important one for Nassau’s seniors,” Legislator Koslow said. “I am happy to once again be working with Northwell Health and our local libraries to do our part to ensure that every community member who wants this vaccine can conveniently receive it at no charge.”
MERRICK EVENT
Friday, Oct. 3, 2025 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Merrick Library
2279 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, N.Y. 11556
NORTH.MERRICK EVENT
Friday, Oct. 10, 2025 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
North Merrick Library
1691 Meadowbrook Road, N. Merrick, N.Y. 11566
Contact Legislator Koslow’s office at 516-571-6205 or skoslow@nassaucountyny.gov for additional information.
NEW YORK (TIP): Suromurchhana, a New York based nonprofit organization for Indian classical music, proudly announces a landmark concert event on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Scandinavia House in New York City. The evening will be a celebration of heritage by commemorating the 80th birth anniversary of living legendary tabla maestro Padma Shri Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri.
This celebration of rhythm and raga will begin at 6:00 PM, and will feature a stellar lineup of acclaimed artists who will pay tribute through performances rooted in deep guru-shishya tradition and musical excellence. Pt. Swapan Chaudhuri, a maestro whose legacy as a tabla virtuoso spans decades, and whose contributions have shaped the very language of percussion in Hindustani classical music, will be performing with vocalist Shri. Sanjoy Banerjee; and Shri Kedar Naphade, a harmonium exponent known for his sensitive accompaniment. Shri. Sanjoy Banerjee is a distinguished vocalist and an exponent of Kirana gharana tradition, who will bring the depth of his rich melodic beauty through his command on the voice – ranging in three octaves, and controlled playfulness with rhythm throughout the evening’s program.
The program will commence with Smt. Namami Karmakar, who represents the new generation of Indian classical vocalists, deeply rooted in this tradition and known for her emotive nuanced renditions of raga, bhajan and thumri. She will be accompanied by Shri Dibyarka Chatterjee on tabla and Shri Anirban Chakrabarty on harmonium.
The event will also pay tribute to musical titans and gurus of Shri Sanjoy Banerjee – Pt. A. Kanan and Vidushi Malabika Kanan, who have inspired generations of artists. Whether you’re a seasoned rasika or a curious listener, this event offers an unforgettable immersion into the timeless beauty of Indian classical music.
Founded by Shri Sanjoy Banerjee, Suromurchhana is an academy and cultural organization dedicated to teaching, performing, and preserving Hindustani classical music in its purest form. Through training, concerts, workshops and outreach, Suromurchhana builds bridges between generations of artists and audiences. This event is part of Suromurchhana’s continuing mission to foster appreciation for Indian classical music and to provide a platform for artists and students alike. “This event is more than a tribute—it’s a living dialogue between tradition and expression. Honoring Pt. Swapan Chaudhuri is an honor for us all.” — Shri. Sanjoy Banerjee, Artistic Director, Suromurchhana
Suromurchhana’s 2025 programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislation.
Event detail: Saturday, October 25, 2025; at 6 PM; Scandinavia House located at 58 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016. Tickets are now available online via Suromurchhana website – www.suromurchhana.org. Early booking is recommended as seating is limited.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): On a sunlit afternoon at the heart of Manhattan, Times Square became a hub of positivity as Tirlok Malik shared the secrets of a happy and peaceful life with an enthusiastic crowd celebrating World Peace Day. Marking the 21st anniversary of the event, organized by Reverend Paul Sladkus, Founder of Good News Corporation, Malik captivated attendees with his “Happy Life Yoga,” emphasizing the power of laughter and inner happiness as essential tools for global peace. “Peace and laughter go together,” he told the crowd. “If you are happy yourself, you can bring peace to the world.”
The event, graced by an array of global icons, highlighted the universal appeal of Malik’s message. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine attended the celebration, alongside luminaries such as the iconic South African film producer Anant Singh.
The event was supported by the likes of Ringo Starr, Michael Douglas, Sister Jenna, Stevie Wonder, Jane Goodall, Reachel Singh, Rebecca Irby, Shakira, Oprah Winfrey, and Deepak Chopra, each showing their support for peace and wellness initiatives.
Malik’s joyful demonstration included interactive laughter exercises, mindfulness techniques, and simple yoga poses, inviting participants of all ages to engage in a collective experience of happiness. His approach resonated deeply with the audience, who responded with laughter and applause throughout the session.
“World Peace Day is not just about ending conflicts—it’s about cultivating joy within ourselves,” Malik said. “When we laugh together, we connect, and connection is the first step to lasting peace.”
As Times Square echoed with laughter and smiles, Malik’s message served as a timely reminder that peace begins with personal happiness and can ripple out to the world at large.
The bipartisan letter asks the Secretary of State Rubio for a Member’s Briefing on the ongoing recovery efforts in India and Pakistan following last month’s devastating floods
WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): In a rare and powerful show of bipartisan unity, Chair of the Pakistan Caucus and active member of the India Caucus, Congressman Tom Suozzi (D–NY), and his co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Pakistan Caucus Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), as well as the bipartisan Chairs of the India Caucus, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Rep. McCormick (R-GA) joined in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The letter requested a briefing on the U.S. response to catastrophic floods that recently devastated communities across both India and Pakistan.
This bipartisan letter highlights the devastating toll of the flooding and the personal impact it has had on South Asian American communities across the United States.
“In the aftermath of last month’s horrific floods, I stand with my Indian and Pakistani constituents and admire their resilience in the face of such hardship,” said Congressman Suozzi. “In my capacity as Chair of the Pakistan Caucus, and as an active member of the India Caucus, I am proud to join my Co-Chair, Rep. Jack Bergman, along with the India Caucus Chairs, in sending a joint letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Natural disasters do not recognize borders. This bilateral and bipartisan collaboration shows that, in the face of tragedy, we must stand united in our common purpose to support our communities.”
The letter, sent September 23, requests a briefing for Members of Congress on the status of U.S. assistance and recovery coordination. It notes the destruction of homes, businesses, and cultural and religious landmarks, including the Kartarpur Sahib, a powerful symbol of peace between India and Pakistan.
“As Members of Congress who represent large Indian and Pakistani American populations, we are hearing firsthand from families whose ancestral homes have been lost, whose livelihoods have been wiped out,” the lawmakers wrote. “We are thankful for the immense help provided by the United States government as well as the Indian and Pakistani diasporas.”
Suozzi emphasized that “working across party lines and across borders isn’t just possible, it’s essential. Our communities deserve that kind of leadership.”
MANHATTAN, NY (TIP): Manu Bhagavan, the Hunter College professor and historian whose new biography, The Remarkable Madame Pandit: Champion of India, Citizen of the World, has drawn attention for its archival depth, appeared at Roosevelt House on the evening of September 16 for a moderated conversation with Vishakha Desai, President Emerita of the Asia Society. The program, hosted by the Roosevelt House Human Rights Program, brought together students, scholars, and New York’s South Asian community for a discussion of Pandit’s life and legacy, followed by a reception and book signing.
Manu Bhagavan (left) is seen at a book signing session. Also in the picture is Gita Sahgal (right, in a white outfit), the granddaughter of Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit.Manu Bhagavan delivers a speech at his book launch event.
Bhagavan framed Pandit’s life as a bridge between Indian nationalism and mid-20th-century internationalism, emphasizing her early role in the independence movement, her service in India’s early cabinets, and her pioneering diplomatic career that culminated in her election as President of the UN General Assembly. The event description and publisher materials highlight Bhagavan’s use of international archives to complicate familiar narratives about Pandit — portraying her not simply as a first or a symbol, but as a sophisticated practitioner of public diplomacy who engaged major institutions and leaders across the globe. Desai steered the conversation toward two recurring themes: the gendered obstacles Pandit faced while operating in predominantly male institutions, and the tension between her global commitments and domestic political currents in India. According to the event brief and the moderator’s professional interests, Desai probed how Pandit negotiated authority and visibility — how she used family connections and political networks while also crafting an independent international voice. These topics, visible in the event synopsis and promotional text, animated much of the discussion.
Manu Bhagavan and Vishakha Desai engage in a conversation.
Bhagavan illustrated his points with archival anecdotes and interpretive reframing (as summarized in promotional material): instances of Pandit’s decisive interventions at the United Nations, episodes that reveal her readiness to confront colonial and authoritarian power, and episodes of political fallout at home. While the program listing does not publish direct quotes, social posts from the day indicate a lively exchange and a full house, suggesting the material resonated strongly with the audience.
During the conversation, Bhagavan also explained how Madame Pandit spoke out against her niece, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, for imposing the national Emergency in 1975 and jailing opposition political leaders — a rare act of defiance within the Nehru-Gandhi family that underscored Pandit’s independence of judgment and commitment to democratic values.
The audience attentively listens to the conversation between Manu Bhagavan and Vishakha Desai at the Roosevelt House in New York City.
Audience reaction after the talk was enthusiastic. Social media posts and short video clips from the event show a standing-room crowd and a well-attended reception and signing immediately after the conversation, evidence that the book launch drew sustained interest from both academic and public audiences in New York.
The highlight of the evening was the presence of Ms Gita Sahgal, Madame Pandit’s granddaughter (her daughter’s daughter), who also spoke briefly at the event. Adding to the sense of history, the program featured a display of the original sari that Madame Pandit famously wore on significant public occasions.
One of the displayed saris that Madame Pandit famously wore on significant public occasions. (Photos: Jay Mandal/On Assignment)
Bhagavan’s biography arrives as scholars and policy practitioners revisit mid-20th-century diplomacy and the role of women in shaping international institutions. The Roosevelt House conversation positioned Pandit as relevant to contemporary debates about gender and diplomacy, postcolonial leadership, and the moral stakes of international engagement, themes that the author and moderator highlighted as central to Pandit’s continuing relevance.
The iconic Indian community event on Oct 11 near Jones Beach in Babylon will include all the features it is known for: fireworks, cultural performances, Meena Bazar, and ethnic food, promises AIA-NY President Beena Kothari.
HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): The annual, iconic Deepavali Festival, organized by the Association of Indians in America (AIA), New York chapter, will be held this year at the Overlook Beach near Jones Beach on Long Island’s south shore.
AIA-NY’s 38th Deepavali Festival in Babylon on October 11 is being held under the leadership of Beena Kothari, who has a record of successfully organizing major community events, including the India Day Parade in Hicksville twice. She has become a proud pioneer now as she guides the move of AIA’s Deepavali Festival from Manhattan to Long Island.
Inviting everyone to the all-day celebration of India’s most beloved festival, Beena Kothari mentions that they have planned an exciting lineup of programs highlighting our rich culture and heritage to entertain and engage everyone in the family, from kids to seniors. Admission to the public event is free, she confirms. Overlook Beach in Babylon is conveniently located and easily accessible from Nassau and Suffolk counties, as well as Queens.
The fireworks show, the most exciting part of the AIA Deepavali celebration, is scheduled for 7 pm on the shore (instead of on the water, as in previous years at the South Street Seaport) and will last 20-30 minutes.
The most significant event will be the 30-minute Ramayana Musical Live Dance Drama. A presentation about Ram Setu has also been planned. Jains’ Diwali connection will be celebrated – on this day Bhagwan Mahavira attained liberation in 527 BCE. Many lawmakers, dignitaries, including the Consul General of India, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, and celebrities will grace the festivities in big numbers. Entertainment includes Indian classical and folk dances.
AIA NY Chapter President Beena Kothari and her team are striving for a unique Diwali experience.
A Special Fashion Show by Prashant Goyal, Celebrity Designer, and a surprise Bollywood star appearance will add glamor to the evening.
Kids Corner, from 12:00 to 4:00 pm, will offer games and fun activities, including henna painting.
Adults can head out to the Health and Wellness Zone and try out free Yoga and Zumba sessions.
Retail and corporate booths will be set up in a tented area. Women will be seen thronging Meena Bazar. Food stalls will serve Indian cuisine and masala chai.
Maharaja and Maharani mannequins will beckon visitors to the photo booth. To welcome visitors from different communities, their women will be dressed in colorful saris. Visitors can participate in Rangoli and art competitions.
People can still purchase tickets to the VIP dinner scheduled for 5:30 pm in an enclosed area. Purchase of raffle tickets may win you exciting grand prizes.
Main sponsors of the celebration include Bolla Oil, Mount Sinai, New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, Cheap-o-air, Navika Group, ICICI Bank, and Ranju & Ravi Batra.
Global TV channels, Zee and Sony, will show highlights of AIA Deepavali 2025. Local media supporters include Parikh Worldwide Media, TV Asia, Radio Zindagi, Jus TV, The South Asian Times, The Indian Panorama, The Indian Eye, Hum Hindustani, and Bollywood Insider.
About the Association of Indians in America
AIA is the oldest Indian community organization in America, set up in 1967 with the motto of ‘Indian Heritage American Commitment’.
AIA-NY President Beena Kothari highlights that the chapter’s achievements include New York City’s official recognition of Diwali as a holiday starting in 2024, the 2013 release of the USPS Diwali stamp, and celebrating the festival at Gracie Mansion and the White House in 2006.
AIA-NY celebrates Diwali as the festival of joy and happiness, as it is common to Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Buddhists, and people of many different countries, including Indo-Caribbeans.
Contact for sponsorship and other details: Mrs. Beena Kothari, Ph: +1 631 988 1280, theaianypresident@gmail.com
EDISON, NJ (TIP):The World Food Movement (WFM), inspired by the Akshaya Patra Foundation and ISKCON Bangalore, has launched a new initiative to provide freshly cooked meals to those in need.
Naveena Neerada Dasa, Executive Director, Strategy and International Relations, Akshaya Patra and World Food Movement, honoring Prem Bhandari.
Shri Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA and President of the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), who graced the occasion as the esteemed guest, inaugurated the initiative with personally serving in the WFM kitchen, participating in every stage from cooking to packing meals. Widely recognized for his humanitarian service and leadership within the global Indian diaspora, his presence served as a true source of inspiration for both volunteers and the wider community, WFM organizers said.
Working shoulder to shoulder with volunteers, Bhandari helped prepare and dispatch freshly cooked meal packets for community college students and food insecure individuals across New York and New Jersey.
Following his service in the kitchen, Shri Prem Bhandari contributed $1,200 to sponsor 100 meals, thereby formally launching the meal sponsorship initiative. He appealed to the diaspora and community members to sponsor meals on occasions such as birthdays, children’s birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or other auspicious days.
The formal launch of this initiative will take place at a special musical fundraising concert, “Melody with a Mission,” featuring award-winning artist Abby V, on September 28, 2025, at NJPAC, Newark, NJ, starting at 4:00 PM. The event seeks to bring the community together in support of eradicating hunger.
Naveena Neerada Dasa, Executive Director , Strategy and International Relations, World Food Movement, who honored Shri Bhandari with a Shawl, said:
“It is an honor for us that Shri Prem Bhandari personally served in our kitchen. His commitment to humanitarian service perfectly aligns with our mission.”
About the World Food Movement (WFM):
The World Food Movement is dedicated to empowering community college students and food insecure individuals in the United States by delivering fresh, wholesome meals that foster well-being, dignity, and opportunity. Guided by the vision that no one should go hungry, WFM strives to ensure easy access to nutritious food for all.
Prem Bhandari at the inauguration of the World Food Movement’s new initiative to provide freshly cooked meals to the needy. L to R: Prabhu Shyam Kishor Dasa, Alok Kumar, FIA Trustee and Chairman of Bihar Jharkhand Association, Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA and President of the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), Rajeev Bhambri, Secretary General, Jaipur Foot USA, Prabhu Sarvalakshan,
EDISON, NJ (TIP):The World Food Movement (WFM), inspired by the Akshaya Patra Foundation and ISKCON Bangalore, has launched a new initiative to provide freshly cooked meals to those in need.
Shri Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA and President of the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), who graced the occasion as the esteemed guest, inaugurated the initiative with personally serving in the WFM kitchen, participating in every stage from cooking to packing meals. Widely recognized for his humanitarian service and leadership within the global Indian diaspora, his presence served as a true source of inspiration for both volunteers and the wider community, WFM organizers said.
Working shoulder to shoulder with volunteers, Bhandari helped prepare and dispatch freshly cooked meal packets for community college students and food insecure individuals across New York and New Jersey.
Naveena Neerada Dasa, Executive Director, Strategy and International Relations, Akshaya Patra and World Food Movement, honoring Prem Bhandari.
Following his service in the kitchen, Shri Prem Bhandari contributed $1,200 to sponsor 100 meals, thereby formally launching the meal sponsorship initiative. He appealed to the diaspora and community members to sponsor meals on occasions such as birthdays, children’s birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or other auspicious days.
The formal launch of this initiative will take place at a special musical fundraising concert, “Melody with a Mission,” featuring award-winning artist Abby V, on September 28, 2025, at NJPAC, Newark, NJ, starting at 4:00 PM. The event seeks to bring the community together in support of eradicating hunger.
Naveena Neerada Dasa, Executive Director , Strategy and International Relations, World Food Movement, who honored Shri Bhandari with a Shawl, said:
“It is an honor for us that Shri Prem Bhandari personally served in our kitchen. His commitment to humanitarian service perfectly aligns with our mission.”
About the World Food Movement (WFM):
The World Food Movement is dedicated to empowering community college students and food insecure individuals in the United States by delivering fresh, wholesome meals that foster well-being, dignity, and opportunity. Guided by the vision that no one should go hungry, WFM strives to ensure easy access to nutritious food for all.
L to R: Prabhu Shyam Kishor Dasa, Alok Kumar, FIA Trustee and Chairman of Bihar Jharkhand Association, Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA Prem Bhandari at the inauguration of the World Food Movement’s new initiative to provide freshly cooked meals to the needy. L to R: Prabhu Shyam Kishor Dasa, Alok Kumar, FIA Trustee and Chairman of Bihar Jharkhand Association, Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA and President of the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), Rajeev Bhambri, Secretary General, Jaipur Foot USA, Prabhu Sarvalakshan, and President of the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), Rajeev Bhambri, Secretary General, Jaipur Foot USA, Prabhu Sarvalakshan,
UNITED NATIONS (TIP)– india has reiterated its “paramount interest” in ensuring peace and stability in Afghanistan while urging the international community to adopt a “fresh approach” beyond punitive measures to support the Afghan people reeling under poverty, disease and hunger.
Speaking at the UN Security Council session on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), India’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, praised outgoing UNAMA chief Roza Otunbayeva for her leadership and reaffirmed India’s readiness to work closely with the mission.
Harish underlined India’s long-standing civilizational ties with Afghanistan and said New Delhi continues to prioritize humanitarian aid, development cooperation and capacity-building initiatives. Since August 2021, India has delivered 50,000 tons of wheat, 330 tons of medicines and vaccines, 40,000 liters of pesticides, and other critical supplies, he noted. Following the devastating earthquake earlier this month, India dispatched more than 36 tons of relief materials, including tents, food supplies, medicines and generators, with more aid on the way.
He also highlighted India’s development footprint through over 500 projects across Afghan provinces and pointed to scholarships provided to 2,000 Afghan students, nearly 600 of them women, since 2023. India has additionally supported drug rehabilitation programs with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, particularly targeting women.
On security concerns, Harish stressed that Afghanistan must not become a safe haven for international terrorist groups. He urged strict adherence to UN Security Council sanctions against ISIL, Al Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed and their affiliates. India, he said, welcomed Kabul’s condemnation of the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
Arguing that “business as usual” is insufficient, Harish called for international efforts to combine incentives for positive behaviour with disincentives for harmful actions. He said the Afghan people, after more than four years under sanctions, have seen limited development opportunities, and humanitarian needs have worsened after the recent earthquake.
“This is the time for compassion, a time for lending a helping hand,” he told the Council, reaffirming India’s “non-negotiable” commitment to Afghanistan’s development and its support for international efforts towards a stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan.
ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y. (TIP) : Nassau County Legislator Scott M. Davis (D – Rockville Centre) presented a $7,000 grant to the Rockville Centre-based Anti-Racism Project, which administers Sharon’s Pantry, on Tuesday, Sept. 16. The presentation was made during September as part of Hunger Action Month in America.
Sharon’s Pantry is named after Sharon Sheppard, the current assistant director of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Rockville Centre. The pantry helps address hunger in the community and was founded in the spring of 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in partnership with Rena Riback and her team at the Anti-Racism Project.
“Everyone at Sharon’s Pantry wants to express sincere gratitude for the grant for our local food pantry. This funding is especially vital as food costs continue to rise and many families struggle and we are seeing an increase in families needing food,” said Sharon Sheppard and Karen Mobley, who run the pantry together. “Thanks to your efforts, the pantry can continue to provide food to our community. Your commitment to addressing food insecurity is making a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors, and we are very grateful for your dedication.”
The full Nassau County Legislature voted unanimously on Dec. 16, 2024 to authorize the grant, which was drawn from federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that, at the Democratic Minority’s urging, were set aside for eligible not-for-profit organizations and special districts that deliver ARPA-approved services.“Sharon’s Pantry was formed to meet a tremendous need that emerged during one of the most challenging times in our recent history,” Legislator Davis said. “Through my work with the Rockville Centre MLK Center, I know firsthand how great the need still is, and how Sharon, Karen and their entire team work selflessly to ensure no family goes hungry. I am proud to have secured these funds and know they will be put to excellent use across our community.”
NEW YORK (TIP): Our trains are fun for adults and children! Take a spectacular journey along the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad corridor and see the natural beauty of the Catskills from our railroad’s unique perspective. Join us as we travel through some of the oldest farmlands in the United States where we will cross the Esopus Creek on the restored C9 Bridge and go through the Hurley Flats and into the foothill of Hurley Mountain, says a Catskill Mountain Railroad press release.
Fall Foliage Trains will operate on September 20th, 21st, 27th, 28th, October 3rd, 4th, 5th, 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th. Check our website for daily departure times. Train fares are $19.00 Adult, $18.00 Adult Discount (senior, military, veteran) $13.00 Children 2 to 12 years, and Toddlers under 2 years on the lap are free
Check our website at https://catskillmountainrailroad.com for Fall Foliage Train schedules and to purchase tickets. All trains depart from Westbrook Station at 55 Kingston Plaza Road, Kingston, NY 12401 and then return. Rides are about an hour and fifteen minutes long and are approximately 8 miles round trip. All Aboard!
Prominent Indian and Nepalese leaders joined hands to launch the Indo-Nepal Youth Association of North America (INYANA) to shape a shared future for the next generation. Invited by INYANA Founder Nishant Garg, BJP leader Shri Tarun Chugh performed the founding ceremony.
FOREST HILLS, NY (TIP): In a historic celebration of cross-cultural collaboration and youth empowerment, the Indo-Nepal Youth Association of North America (INYANA) was officially launched on August 23 in New York City, marking the start of a bold movement to unite and uplift Indian and Nepalese youth across the continent.
The importance of the new initiative was underlined by the presence of Tarun Chugh, National Secretary of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who was invited by INYANA’s Founder Nishant Garg to perform ribbon-cutting. The founding ceremony saw active participation from leaders in both the Indian and Nepalese diasporas, including prominent figures from the Nepalese associations of America, further reinforcing the new body’s mission of inclusive growth and joint celebration.
Besides Nishant Garg, INYANA’s Board includes Pradip Shrestha, President of the Greater New York Nepali Chamber of Commerce, Deepak Shrestha, Shailendra Shrestha, and Lakpa Wanomo Tamang.
Tarun Chugh commended the INYANA initiative as a “powerful platform to build bridges and strengthen the Indo-Nepal voice in the diaspora.” Commending Nishant Garg’s initiative, he noted that the involvement of Indian youth overseas reflects India’s growing influence and underscores their pivotal role in the nation’s transformative journey. Amit Taneja, a BJP leader from Punjab, accompanied Chugh.
At the launch, Tarun Chugh was joined by Nishant Garg, founder of INYANA, and Nepalese diaspora leaders, including Pradip Shrestha, President of the Greater New York Nepali Chamber of Commerce.
Nishant Garg, a successful entrepreneur, recent appointee to the CTIA (RLSQ) Leadership Council, and founder of the Telecom Institute of New York (T.I.N.Y.) and Delta Enterprise USA, in his address at the launch, said, “INYANA is more than an organization, it’s a movement. A movement to inspire, uplift, and unite Indo-Nepal youth to be proud of who they are and to lead with purpose on the global stage.”
INYANA: Vision That Goes Beyond Borders
INYANA has been established to empower the next generation of Indian and Nepalese youth across the US and Canada through cultural celebration, leadership development, mentorship, and collaborative community service. It aims to create a future where youths in America from the two neighboring countries grow up with pride in their heritage, strength in their unity, and access to opportunities that help them thrive personally, professionally, and culturally.
(L to R): Tarun Chugh, National Secretary of India’s ruling BJP party, Pradip Shrestha, President of the Greater New York Nepali Chamber of Commerce, and Nishant Garg, founder of INYANA.
INYANA will serve as a vehicle for positive transformation by
Promoting Unity: Strengthening ties between Indian and Nepalese youth through collaborative cultural, educational, and social initiatives.
Celebrating Culture: Hosting festivals, artistic showcases, and heritage events that amplify Indo-Nepal traditions.
Recognizing Excellence: Honoring achievements in academics, expression of the arts, entrepreneurship, and community leadership.
Empowering Youth: Offering mentorship, scholarships, and resources to support students, differently-abled youth, and young professionals.
Advancing Representation: Elevating Indo-Nepal voices across education, politics, business, and civic life.
The Road Ahead: Building with Purpose
INYANA’s next phase of development includes:
Establishing local chapters in universities and major cities
Partnering with U.S. authorities to formalize its nonprofit structure
Launching national programs in mentorship, entrepreneurship, and leadership
Facilitating networking between Indo-Nepal professionals and students
Creating platforms for youth to engage in service, storytelling, and advocacy.
Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, artist, educator, or simply someone who believes in unity and empowerment, INYANA welcomes all to become part of this growing family.
To learn more & get involved, contact Nishant Garg, INYANA Founder, Office Ph: 844-631-8469 and follow Garg on this LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-garg-delta/
Dr. Indranil Basu-Ray Yoga for Cardiovascular Disease and Rehabilitation
NEW YORK (TIP): The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) held its webinar series on September 13th, 2025, with a compelling session titled “Indian Medicinal Wisdom: Strategies for Modern Maladies.” The event brought together subject matter experts on ancient medicine and modern medicine, practitioners of combined healthcare approaches, community leaders, and global participants to share insights and best practices.
Moderated by Public Health Leader and Community Advocate Aparna Hande from Southern California, who also serves as GOPIO Medical Council Co-chair, told the audience in the outset that the Webinar session was to encourage active global Indian Diaspora participation with discussions emphasizing the effectiveness of combining modern medicine with evidence-based traditional practices for both prevention and treatment.
The program started with welcome remarks by GOPIO Associate Secretary Sunil Vuppala, who also serves as the Chair of the Webinar Series. Vuppala said that the last few webinars have galvanized the Diaspora community to a common platform to discuss topics of common interest. He then introduced the GOPIO Chairman and President for their remarks.
GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, who could not be present in person, provided a video message sharing brief history of GOPIO International, which was founded in 1989 in New York, now spanning 35 countries with life members and 100 chapters worldwide. Dr. Abraham explained that the primary purpose of GOPIO when it was established as a nonprofit was to integrate the Indian diaspora into the mainstream political community—a goal he noted has been successfully achieved. He further emphasized that OPIO has evolved to address current and relevant issues facing the global Indian diaspora, benefiting both the Indian and global communities. Dr. Abraham also highlighted GOPIO’s proactive role during the COVID-19 pandemic, organizing numerous health-related programs for the benefit of the Indian Diaspora.
GOPIO President Prakash Shah in his remarks highlighted the series of webinar initiatives aimed at educating the Indian Diaspora on relevant issues. He explained that this is the third webinar in the series, held every other month on the second Saturday since July. The first webinar focused on immigration, the second on the AI era, both of which he described as successful and impactful. This third session explores “Ancient Medicinal Wisdom for Modern Maladies.” He also announced the upcoming event on October 11 of this year, which will focus on investment growth and the role of the Diaspora.
The Chief Guest for the session was Padma Shri Recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, an Allergist & Immunologist who is also a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and Chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold. Dr. Parikh is also President-Elect of Global Asso. of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), which represent 1.4 million Indian physicians worldwide. Dr. Parikh in his remarks concluded, “Ayurvedic and modern medicine can both be effective for certain diseases, provided the ancient remedies meet standard dosage and quality requirements,”
Dr. Indranill Basu-Ray (Tennessee, USA), Cardiologist, Prof. of Public Health, Director of Research and Chair, GOPIO Medical Council has been a Yoga advocate. Author of “Yoga for Cardiovascular Disease and Rehabilitation,” he demonstrates how yoga and holistic traditions can transform modern healthcare and medicine.
Dr. Basu-Ray said, “Yoga is not a religion; it is a lifestyle practice. Adopting healthy lifestyle changes is the best medicine for a healthy life, supported by both research and modern medicine.”
Dr. Nirmal Joshi (Pennsylvania, USA), who is a physician, filmmaker and CEO of Joshi Health Foundation spoke on the topic. “The Epidemic of Heart Attacks in Young Indians – The Crisis and the Solutions,” he uncovered the reasons behind this growing crisis in our communities. Dr. Joshi said that there is an alarming epidemic of early and severe heart attacks in Indians and we need to act now.
Pulmonologist Dr. Tina Shah, a public health advocate, currently a Democratic candidate for a Congressional seat in New Jersey (NJ-07) shared her insights under the theme “Ancient Wisdom in Healthcare and Medicine,” bridging modern science with timeless health traditions.
Dr. Tina Shah said, “Clean air is essential for the health of every organ in our body, and we must take a public health approach in our society to promote policies that reduce air pollution.”
Endocrinologist. Diabetes Expert and population expert Dr. Renu Joshi (Pennsylvania, USA), spoke on the topic, “Not So Sweet! – Unmasking Diabetes in Indian Communities.” She further highlighted the alarming rise of diabetes and explored lessons in prevention from Ancient India.
Dr. Renu Joshi said, “Diabetes, though an ancient disease, can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle, meditation, and regular screening. Traditional medicines may help with prevention, while modern medicine plays a key role when the condition is not controlled.
Dr. Dinesh Upadhyay (India), Naturopathist and Yoga & Ayurvedic expert and former National Co-Convener, BJP Medical Cell, joined from India. He serves as the Sampark Pramukh for Delhi Pradesh with Chikitsak Sangh and Arogya Bharati.
Dr. Upadhyay said, “Ancient Indian medicine can be integrated into mainstream healthcare to promote preventive care, wellness, and effective treatment.”
Ms. Chhavi Chawla (California, USA), Health Advisor, Environmental Advocate and Millet Ambassador was the final speaker. Chawla is also author of “Live Healthy, Lifelong” and founder of a philanthropic trust, she inspires communities through holistic living and her platform @Saveragirl. With a special focus on millets as “diet as medicine,” she promotes sustainable, cost-effective practices that support both wellness and planetary health.
Chawla said, “When food is right, medicine is not needed; when food is wrong, no medicine works. Small millets are exceptional in offering therapeutic properties for disease prevention & reversal… To decode the truth & learn how Small Millets help both us & the planet, follow @Saveragirl on YouTube.”
GOPIO General Secretary Siddharth Jain gave the vote of thanks. Ms. Vatsala Upadhyay, Founder & CEO of AI Junction, provided technical support. The event concluded with calls for collaboration, education, and ongoing dialogue among Diaspora communities.
About GOPIO – Founded in 1989, GOPIO is a non-partisan, not-for-profit, secular organization with Individual Life Members and chapter delegates from over 100 chapters in 36 countries. GOPIO’s volunteers are committed to enhancing cooperation and communication between NRIs/PIOs and the local communities, building networks, bonds, friendships, alliances, and the camaraderie of citizens and colleagues alike. GOPIO volunteers believe that when they help network the global Indian community, they facilitate making tomorrow a better world for the Indian Diaspora, the countries they live in and India.
For more info on GOPIO International Monthly Programs, contact Sunil Vuppula +1 (732) 331-3084.
For more info on GOPIO contact Sid Jain at +1 (201) 889-8888 or email at Secretary@GOPIO.net
NEW YORK (TIP): The NYPD, on September 18, served the Civilian Complaint Review Board’s (CCRB) misconduct charges on officers Salvatore Alongi and Matthew Cianfrocco for killing Win Rozario in March 2024. The Bangladeshi teenager was safe at home until NYPD officers Salvatore Alongi and Matthew Cianfrocco arrived. Alongi and Cianfrocco recklessly shot Win five times in less than two minutes of entering the apartment, as his mother pleaded for the officers not to shoot – endangering the lives of Win’s mother and younger brother in the process.
While the CCRB ruled last week that the officers engaged in serious misconduct, including excessive force and abuse of authority, there was concern amongst the community that the NYPD would try to stop any disciple to the officers involved, especially given the NYPD’s history of stopping or delaying discipline of officers in other high profile police killings, including Eric Garner, Kawaski Trawick, Allan Feliz and more.
The news of charges being filed came after a protest held by Win Rozario’s family, Desis Rising Up and Moving (DRUM), the Justice Committee, elected officials like Public Advocate Williams and State Senator John Lie and others at NYPD headquarters, calling for Commissioner Tisch and Mayor Adams to charge the officers before the deadline. A group of almost forty city and state elected officials also sent a letter to the commissioner and mayor, urging them to “move forward without delay or obstruction, so that New Yorkers and Win’s family do not have to wait another year for Justice.
In response to the news that charges were served on Alongi and Cianfrocco, Notan Eva Costa, the mother of Win Rozario, issued the following statement: “I’m relieved to hear that the NYPD has done the right thing and served the CCRB’s charges, but I wish me and my family and so many others didn’t have to fight to make that happen. The truth is Alongi and Cianfrocco should already have been fired and it’s painful that we still have the whole discipline process ahead of us. I hope this means the NYPD won’t try to play tricks in the months ahead and that Alongi and Cianfrocco are fired as soon as possible. Without Win this past year and a half, I have felt like I lost a part of myself. I am fighting for Win and all New Yorkers so that all our children get a chance to grow up. Young people struggling with mental health issues should not live in fear of being killed by the NYPD.”
Sherry Padilla (she/her), Organizer with Desis Rising Up & Moving (DRUM) said: “For too long, the lack of accountability for NYPD officers has fueled the recklessness we saw in the murder of Win Rozario. The serving of the charges substantiated by the CCRB on Alongi and Cianfrocco is a welcome step, but only possible because the Rozario family and others fought relentlessly for it. The gap left in the Rozario family by Win’s absence can never be filled. All the more important that the remaining steps of firing and prosecution go through so that the family has even a bare opportunity to move forward.”
Loyda Colon (they/them), Executive Director of the Justice Committee and a representative of the family shared: “The facts related to the NYPD murder of Win Rozario, a teenager who was safe in his home prior to Alongi & Cianfrocco’s arrival are clear. Commissioner Tisch did the right thing by making sure the CCRB’s misconduct charges were served but we shouldn’t have had to fight to ensure this would happen. Now, a discipline trial date must be set so Alongi & Cianfrocco can be fired – and Attorney General James must indict and prosecute them. Anything less sends the message that NYPD officers can kill with impunity – and that families like Win’s must bear the brunt.”
Luna Droubi (she/her), Partner, Beldock Levine and Hoffman, said: “NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch’s service of the charges is a step in the right direction towards ending the culture of impunity that has persisted in the NYPD. I hope this leads to accountability, but I know it won’t lead to justice, because if we could have justice, Mr. Rozario would be alive with his family.”
BACKGROUND
On March 27, 2024, teenager Win Rozario was killed in front of his mother and younger brother in his family’s Ozone Park apartment by NYPD Officers Salvatore Alongi and Matthew Cianfrocco. Officers Alongi and Cianfrocco recklessly shot Win at least five times in less than two minutes of entering the apartment, as his mother pleaded for the officers not to shoot. Alongi & Cianfrocco violated numerous NYPD protocols, including when they tased Win without warning while he was standing still with nothing in his hands, chaotically escalating the crisis that they had created without properly taking steps to de-escalate in spite of sufficient time to do so, and shooting Win while his mother and younger brother were nearby, endangering their lives.
Immediately following the shooting, NYPD officers forced Win’s mother and younger brother to go to the precinct to be interrogated, preventing them from accompanying Win to the hospital. Ms. Costa was questioned at length without counsel before being told her son had died, and Win’s 17-year-old brother was also interrogated alone. NYPD officers blocked re-entry to the Rozario family’s home for more than two days, refusing the family’s requests to retrieve belongings, access medications, or even to have someone feed their cat.
For over a month after Win Rozario was killed, the NYPD blocked transparency, including refusing to release the names of the officers involved. Alongi and Cianfrocco’s names were first publicly identified by the Attorney General’s Office when they released officer body camera footage on May 3, 2024. Mayor Adams’ first and only public statements regarding the killing were issued only after the Attorney General released body camera footage, over five weeks after Win was killed, after he was questioned by press. After being questioned by reporters, Mayor Adams falsely claimed that he had reached out to the family after the incident and that discipline would have to wait until after the Attorney General’s investigation concluded with a determination, which has never been accurate.
For the past year and a half, Win Rozario’s family, along with the Justice Committee, Desis Rising Up & Moving and others have called for the NYPD to fire – and for the NYS Attorney General to prosecute – NYPD officers Alongi and Cianfrocco. Win’s family is also calling for police to be removed from the city’s mental health response. Win Rozario’s mother wrote about the year since Win was killed and the NYPD’s mistreatment of her family in a March 2025 Daily News Op-Ed.
On September 19, the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) substantiated eight misconduct allegations against officers Alongi and Cianfrocco, including excessive force and abuse of authority. The CCRB filed “charges and specifications” with the NYPD against Alongi and Cianfrocco– the highest class of discipline against officers, reflecting the severity of misconduct. The NYPD is responsible for officially serving the CCRB’s charges on the officers, to formally commence disciplinary proceedings.
The NYPD’s Force Investigation Division (FID) was required to investigate the killing, but the family has received no information or updates from Mayor Adams or the NYPD about their mandated investigation since Win was killed in March of 2024. The New York State Attorney General is also investigating the killing.
About Desis Rising Up and Moving:
DRUM – Desis Rising Up and Moving is a multigenerational, membership led organization of low-wage South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrants, workers and youth in New York City. Founded in 2000, DRUM has mobilized and built the leadership of thousands of low-income, South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrants to lead social and policy change that impacts their own lives- from immigrant rights to education reform, racial justice, and worker’s justice. Our membership of over 5,000 adults, youth, and families is multigenerational and represents the diaspora of the South Asian communities – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Guyana, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, and beyond. In over a decade, we have built a unique model of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean undocumented workers, women, and youth led organizing for rights and justice from the local to the global rooted in base building, leadership development, running short and long term campaigns to reform policies on all levels, strong cross-community alliances locally and nationally, and building democratic and mass participatory spaces.
About the Justice Committee:
Since the 1980s, the Justice Committee (JC) has been dedicated to building a movement against police violence and systemic racism in New York City. The heart of our work is organizing and uplifting the leadership of families who have lost loved ones to the police and survivors of police violence. We empower our community to deter police violence, hold law enforcement accountable, and build people-led community safety through grassroots organizing campaigns, community empowerment, political education, our CopWatch program, and by developing safety mechanisms and projects that decrease reliance on police. By building solidarity with other anti-racist, immigrant and people of color-led organizations, the Justice Committee seeks to contribute to a broad-based movement for racial, social, and economic justice.
EDISON, NJ (TIP): Nearly 300 guests came together at the Moghul Ballroom in Edison for the Pills to Purpose Gala & Book Launch, celebrating the release of pharmacist Ritesh Shah’s memoir, Pills to Purpose, and raising nearly $175,000 in support of the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy (RSCP).
The evening, emceed by Joe Howe, President of RSCP, was filled with moving tributes and moments of reflection. The beautifully decorated ballroom set the stage for a program that included heartfelt keynote speeches, a symbolic candle lighting, and the unveiling of Ritesh Shah’s book.
The book “Pills to Purpose” is launched
Keynote speakers Senator Vin Gopal and Senator Raj Mukherji delivered powerful remarks. Senator Gopal spoke on “Empathy: Prescription of Hope,” highlighting the importance of serving underserved communities through New Jersey’s first charitable pharmacy. Senator Mukherji followed with “Seva: The Pharmacist’s Purpose,” drawing from the chapter in which he is featured to emphasize service, sacrifice, and the deeper mission of healthcare.
Guests also experienced a “Mission Moment” video spotlighting RSCP’s patient impact, followed by a live art auction by Serena Cutaneo. After the program, attendees enjoyed a full buffet dinner and dessert while sharing in the spirit of community. The evening concluded with a book signing, where guests lined up to meet Ritesh Shah and receive personalized copies of Pills to Purpose.
Q & A session with Ritesh Shah
“I am deeply humbled and inspired to have witnessed our community come together in such a powerful way,” said Ritesh Shah, RPh. “This night was not only about launching a book, but about honoring the memory of my sister, Rena, whose light continues to guide this mission. The support in this room affirms that Pills to Purpose is more than a book — it is a movement to ensure no patient in New Jersey is ever denied access to life-saving medication.”
Copies of Pills to Purpose — subtitled A True Story of a Pharmacist — are now available on Amazon. Each purchase directly supports RSCP’s mission: One book sold= one life saved.
For more information, visit www.pillstopurpose.com or www.rscprx.org.
Mission:
Increase access to medications, immunizations, health education, and pharmacy services for uninsured and underserved patients, to reduce clinical and social health inequities in our community.
‘World Food Movement’ (WFM) will formally launch with a music concert in Victoria Theatre, NJPAC in Newark, New Jersey on September 28.
NEWARK, NJ (TIP): The World Food Movement (WFM) is a not – for – profit organization established in the USA to fulfill the great desire of Srila Prabhupada, Founder-Acharya of ISKCON, to see that No One Goes Hungry.
Due to various factors, including rising living expenses, many people are forced to choose between food and other essentials. WFM strives on nourishing students and the community at large by providing access to healthy meals in the USA.
This initiative is inspired by The Akshaya Patra Foundation, the world’s largest NGO-run school lunch program serving fresh, nutritious meals to 2.3 million of children every day in India since 2000. Akshaya Patra is known for its state-of-the-art, ISO-certified kitchens, which can cook up to 100,000 meals a day. Its efficient systems have become case studies at leading institutions, including Harvard University, Stanford University, and London Business School. Former Presidents Mr. Barack Obama and Mr. Bill Clinton during their trip to India have expressed their appreciation for the scale, quality and use of advanced technologies in its feeding programs.
The World Food Movement has brought this transformative model to the USA, and commenced feeding initiatives in New Jersey, New York, and California, with a vision to expand nationwide.
On September 28, 2025, the ‘World Food Movement’ (WFM) will formally launch with a music concert in Victoria Theatre, NJPAC in Newark, New Jersey. The event will be inaugurated by Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, Vice Chairman of World Food Movement, and Sri Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York. Eminent dignitaries from across the USA will be attending the event.
The evening will feature a musical performance by internationally acclaimed musician Abby V(Abhishek Venkatachalam) is set to give a vibrant cultural dimension to the event. He is a multi-award-winning singer, songwriter, and composer, celebrated for blending classical and contemporary styles of music. This event marks the beginning of a movement that aspires to bring about a transformation in the United States of America.
Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa said, “We are happy to launch the ‘World Food Movement’ in the USA to serve the students and other communities of this wonderful country. We believe it is essential for citizens to be well-nourished to thrive and engage effectively in nation-building. We are committed to promoting well-being, restoring dignity and making a difference in people’s lives.”
We invite you to participate in this event and join us in our mission to ensure food for all. We welcome the support of government and administrative agencies, philanthropists, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals in providing abundant, nutritious meals and helping build a healthier, happier nation. Learn more about the World Food Movement on https://wfmnj.org/about and secure your tickets for the Fundraising event on https://wfmnj.org/events.
Adams made the comments to the Association for a Better New York during a closed-door meeting on Wednesday, September 10
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): New York City Mayor Eric Adams hinted to a group of business leaders on Wednesday, September 10, that he would conduct his own polling that could determine whether he continues his reelection campaign. Adams made the comments to the Association for a Better New York during a closed-door meeting, according to the New York Times.
According to NBC News, Adam implied that if his poll numbers do not move, he would put the best interests of the city first. He told members of the association that he loves “the city more than I dislike Andrew.”
Last Friday, Adams reiterated that he is still running for reelection, despite a previous New York Times report that claimed he could potentially drop out of the race and take a job with the Trump administration.
Todd Shapiro, a spokesman for the Adams campaign, told NBC News and the New York Times, that the mayor never “alluded to leaving the race” during the meeting.
“He clearly indicated that he will be spending resources to get his message out and will then look at his own independent poll to make a decision,” Shapiro told the Times. “Nothing he said should give any indication that he has abandoned the race.”
A Siena College and the New York Times poll released on Tuesday, September 9, showed that Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani remains in the lead in the mayor’s race.
The poll found in a four-man race that Mamdani would lead the pack with 46 percent of the vote, Cuomo got 24 percent and GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa ended up with 15 percent. Mayor Eric Adams finished with nine percent of the vote.
NEW YORK (TIP): “The recent revelations by Rahul Gandhi, the opposition leader in India, have brought to light shocking election irregularities in Karnataka and Maharashtra. The solid evidence of massive fraud, aimed at subverting the voter’s will, poses a grave threat to the democratic process,” said George Abraham, Vice-Chairman for the Indian Overseas Congress, USA.
Mr. Gandhi alleged manipulation via duplicate registrations, fake addresses, misused Form 6 entries, and more. The scale of the fraud is staggering and shocking. About 100,000 votes were stolen in the Mahadevapura constituency in Bangalore. This was achieved through five manipulating tactics: 11,965 duplicate voter entries, 40,009 fake or invalid addresses, 10.452 bulk entries from a single or invalid address, 4132 entries with invalid photos, and 33,692 misuses of Form 6 (new voter additions).
The Election Commission has become a vassal in the hands of the BJP, infringing its independence and transforming it into a subsidiary of the government machinery, contrary to what the framers of the Constitution intended. The removal of the Chief Justice from the EC decision making process, while appointing bureaucrats amenable to the whims of the ruling disposition, was the beginning of the end of this venerable institution that was known for its independence and integrity. These explosive revelations throw into doubt not only the integrity of past elections but also their usability and value of this grand exercise, as they have become a mockery of deceit and thievery.
IOCUSA is calling upon the Election Commission to conduct a nationwide audit of its voter rolls and to add VVPAT to every Electronic Voting Machine (EVM). These measures are crucial for ensuring complete transparency and fairness in elections, thereby preventing election manipulation. These principles are not just ideals, but the very foundation of a democratic society. Additionally, IOCUSA urges the BJP government to halt Executive overreach.
NEW YORK (TIP): Several pharmacies across the State are forced to stop offering the COVID-19 vaccine due to federal inaction. State Senator John Liu introduced legislation, S8495, on Wednesday, September 3, to ensure New Yorkers can access lifesaving immunizations at their local pharmacies.
Currently, pharmacists in New York only administer vaccines approved by the federal CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). But after Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. purged all 17 members of the committee, major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens stopped offering COVID-19 vaccines, leaving New Yorkers without access to this critical vaccine just as students head back to school.
The legislation empowers the New York State Commissioner of Health to fill this void by authorizing licensed pharmacists to administer FDA-approved vaccines recommended by the New York State Immunization Advisory Council (IAC) or the Department of Health.
State Senator John Liu stated, “The CDC is no longer doing its job, and New Yorkers should not have to wait on federal inaction to protect their own health. New York needs to pick up where the federal government is failing us by allowing pharmacists, who are the most accessible healthcare providers in our communities, to provide timely vaccines to anyone who needs them.”
By granting the Commissioner of the Department of Health the ability to authorize pharmacists to administer vaccines, New Yorkers can sidestep federal inaction, empower the IAC, and gain access to FDA-approved vaccines. Created in 1994, the IAC comprises healthcare providers, vaccine developers, insurers, consumer advocates, and public health officials, and meets several times a year to review and make recommendations for improving immunization coverage and access.
Senator Liu’s legislation comes amid growing concerns that the federal government is hamstringing public health policy, putting vulnerable populations at risk. As states like Florida move to end vaccine mandates, and pharmacies at home stop stocking COVID-19 vaccines, New Yorkers are already feeling the impact: days before the start of school, Senator Liu’s office received inquiries from constituents asking why they couldn’t get the latest COVID-19 shot at their local pharmacy.
Yesterday, Governor Hochul announced she would issue an executive order temporarily authorizing pharmacies to administer COVID-19 vaccines, underscoring the need for a permanent legislative fix.
Liu added, “I applaud Governor Hochul’s quick action yesterday to ensure access to the COVID-19 vaccine. Now we need a permanent solution that allows New Yorkers to receive vaccines without any reliance on the dysfunctional CDC.”
Liu’s legislation was endorsed by Dr. Howard Zucker, who served as state health commissioner during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Leaders from diverse communities enthusiastically celebrated the 79th Independence Day of India
QUEENS, NY (TIP Reporter): India Day Parade in Queens, New York was organized on August 16, 2025 by FBIMA, with actress Sejal Sharma as the Grand Marshall. President Denzil George, Parade Chairman Koshy Thomas and several elected officials attended the parade, which was witnessed by thousands who lined up the route of the parade.
Chairman of the Parade Organizing Committee Koshy Thomas addresses the gathering. Present on the stage are the Grand Marshal Sejal Sharma, President of FBIMA Denzil George, elected representatives, and community leaders.President of FBIMA Denzil George spoke on the occasion with the Grand Marshall Sejal Sharma, elected representatives, and community leaders by his side
Many prominent Indian American community leaders joined the parade. Among them were Dr. Hari Shukla and his wife Kirti, who have been patronizing the parade since its inception.
There was enough entertainment for all ages. For the children in particular, there were a couple of games and rides which attracted many kids.
Grand Marshall Sejal Sharma congratulated the gathering on India’s 79th Independence Day and said she was happy to be at the parade with the wonderful Indian community.Hari Shukla was honored for his support for the Parade. Seen in the picture, from L to R : Koshy Thomas, Sejal Sharma, Dr. Hari Shukla, Denzil George, and an Executive Committee Member.
Over the years, the Queens India Day Parade has been growing in size, and the organizers this year, in particular, President Denzil George and Parade Chairman Koshy Thomas, expressed the hope that more and more people will join the parade next year, which is an occasion to celebrate the freedom of India.
Dr. Hari Shukla and his wife Kirti Shukla hold the Tricolor while leading the car caravan in the parade.
NEW YORK, NY (TIP): On Monday, September 1, 2025, between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, thousands of restaurant workers, wage advocates, and community allies will descend on Trump International Hotel & Tower (725 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022) for a major Labor Day rally and demonstration that is part of a National ‘Workers Over Billionaires’ Day of Action. Organized by One Fair Wage in partnership with 50501, Rise and Resist, the New York Chapter of Physicians for a National Health Program, New York Doctors, Target Majority NYC and the May Day Strong coalition, the event will feature a speaking program, mass mobilization, and a large scale “Restaurant in the Street” activation, transforming Fifth Avenue into a people-powered restaurant designed to highlight the struggle of working people and launch the New York Living Wage for All campaign.
The rally will center the question workers are asking New York legislators — Which side are you on? Trump and the National Restaurant Association corporate lobby, or workers fighting for a living wage and an end to the subminimum wage for tipped workers?
Demonstrators will expose Trump’s hypocrisy in attacking working people and call on NY legislators to respond with real solutions. While campaigning as a champion of working people, he has acted as the “Restaurant Owner in Chief,” siding with the National Restaurant Association (NRA), the powerful corporate lobby that has lobbied to block wage increases and preserve the subminimum wage, a two-tiered system rooted in slavery that still traps millions of tipped workers in poverty. As recently reported in The New Yorker, the NRA has even orchestrated campaigns to train workers to oppose reforms and protect this exploitative model. Instead of standing with workers, Trump has stood with the NRA and billionaire allies, deepening the cost of living crisis rather than delivering on his campaign promises to make life affordable.
Advocates will call out Trump’s faux populist “No Tax on Tips” plan as another red herring and temporary fix that expires in 2028 and leaves out nearly two-thirds of tipped workers who earn too little to file federal income taxes. According to One Fair Wage’s Serving While Sick report, the GOP cuts to Medicaid and SNAP cuts will harm more than 1.2 million tipped and restaurant workers nationwide, far more than his tip tax policy would impact. This is why Trump is being called out as TACO (‘Trump Always Chickens Out’) – reversing on false promises made to address the affordability crisis. A companion report, Short Changed, further shows why wage increases, not temporary gimmicks, remain the real solution.
On Labor Day, workers are asking New York legislators to respond to these attacks by passing legislation that will raise wages for all workers to a Living Wage for All. With ongoing price increases and benefits being taken away, workers and allies will rally, march, and serve tacos in the street to demand real solutions to the affordability crisis and call for Living Wages for All to Make America Affordable Now.
VISUALS:
Thousands of workers rallying outside Trump Tower with protest signs and banners
A speaking program featuring restaurant workers, community leaders, and advocates
A “restaurant in the street” transformation in front of Trump Tower with tacos being served to symbolize Trump’s unfulfilled promises
Giant taco props and creative street theater highlighting Trump as TACO
A giant banner stretching across 5th Avenue reading “Which Side Are You On”
WHO: Restaurant workers, tipped workers, One Fair Wage leaders, Living Wage Coalition partners, and affordability experts
WHAT: Labor Day rally, protest, and “Restaurant in the Street” action to ask NY legislators WHICH SIDE ARE YOU ON, and launch the New York Living Wage for All campaign
WHERE: Trump International Hotel & Tower, 725 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
WHEN: Monday, September 1, 2025 — 2:00 to 4:00 PM ET
RSVP: Press must RSVP HERE to attend and receive any updates
NEW YORK (TIP): In a landmark move, a U.S.-based citizen has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court of India. It is challenging gender inequality, colorism, and wage disparities in the country’s powerful film industry.
Jason Zangara, a resident of the United States, submitted the petition as a “concerned individual from the outside.” He is aiming to spark long-overdue reforms in how female actors are treated and compensated in Indian cinema.
Key Issues Raised in the Petition
Zangara’s PIL is based on extensive research and documented evidence, highlighting three deeply rooted problems in the industry:
Colorism in Casting – A persistent preference for lighter-skinned actors in lead roles. For example, often sidelining darker-skinned talent despite their skill and suitability.
Gender Pay Disparity – Large wage gaps between male and female actors. Even when women lead the project or have equal screen presence and box office value.
Male Favoritism in Opportunities – Preferential casting, promotion, and career advancement for male actors, perpetuating patriarchal industry norms.
A Call for Global Change
“I’m tired of watching these women being treated this way,” Zangara told reporters. “It’s not just about entertainment – these portrayals and industry practices have real consequences for societal attitudes toward women and beauty standards.”
Although Zangara lives abroad, he believes that addressing such systemic issues in one of the world’s most influential film industries could trigger change beyond India’s borders.
“If the Supreme Court takes action, it could set a precedent that inspires workplace equality not just in India, but around the world,” he said.
Potential Industry Impact
It potentially places the film industry under direct legal scrutiny. Advocacy groups and gender equality activists have already expressed strong support for the initiative. If admitted, this PIL could pave the way for more public interest litigations tackling representation, diversity, and workplace fairness in other industries across India.
Observers believe that a legal precedent could pressure producers, casting directors, and talent agencies to adopt transparent hiring and pay practices. This shift could not only redefine Bollywood’s image but also inspire similar reforms in regional cinema, making the Indian film industry a global example of progressive change in entertainment.
UNIONDALE, NY (TIP): The Indian community of Long Island came together to celebrate the 79th Independence Day of India, organized by Navika Capital Group and Blue Sky Hospitality Solutions at the Marriott Long Island. Over 1000 community members, local leaders, and distinguished guests attended, including Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, NY, and Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, India.
The celebration opened with the American and Indian national anthems, reflecting unity, respect, and the strong bond between the two nations. County Executive Bruce Blakeman addressed the gathering, highlighting the contributions of Indian-American residents to in business, technology, and civic life. He acknowledged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nassau County, wished India a happy Independence Day, and officially declared Independence Day for India across Nassau County.
Mr. Sandhu, who traveled from India especially for the event, expressed heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the Indian-American community, saying he was “stunned” by their enthusiasm and patriotism and praised their efforts to keep Indian traditions alive abroad.
Community leader Harry Singh Bola underscored the importance of unity, saying, “Our efforts will be meaningful only when we put our differences aside, represent India as one country, one people, one person equals the whole community.”
Organizers and leadership reflected on the event’s significance. Naveen Shah, CEO, said, “I wanted to celebrate the birthday of India, our soil, our nation – this celebration shows the strength of our community, our culture, and our unity”.Haridas Kotahwala, Chairman, added, “It is our honor to celebrate India’s Independence Day with such pride. Including Janmashtami made the occasion even more special, reminding us of our national heritage and spiritual traditions.”
The evening featured a vibrant cultural program that went beyond music and dance, presenting a theatrical storytelling of India’s independence struggle. Through songs, narration, and enactments, the performances highlighted the sacrifices of freedom fighters, revolts against colonial rule, and India’s ultimate triumph, leaving the audience deeply moved. The Nassau County Band added to the celebration by performing a parade around the Long Island Marriott, infusing the evening with energy and patriotism.
The event opened with a powerful Sanskrit invocation led by Neha Bhansali, setting a reverent and celebratory tone for the evening and soulful performance of patriotic songs by Budh Prakash, renowned for international satsangs. The Independence Day proclamation was read by Varinder Bhalla, while Dr. Raj Bhayani and Madhu Pareek served as co-hosts, expertly guiding the program with grace and professionalism.
Alongside Independence Day, the community also marked Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna, with a special cake-cutting ceremony. Audience members whose birthdays fell on the same day were invited to join, adding a personal and heartfelt touch. A soulful bhajan session further enhanced the festive atmosphere before lively music and dance concluded the evening.
Guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner representing the culinary diversity of India, featuring flavors from the North, South, East, and West. Dignitaries along with our performers from India and the US were formally recognized for their contributions, underscoring the sense of community and shared pride that defined the event. As the event concluded, all attendees were presented with prasadam in the form of a sweet box for Janmashtami, generously sponsored by Dr. Deepak Nandi.
Naveen Shah concluded the event with pride, unity, and a shared commitment to honor India’s independence while contributing positively to life in America.
(Based on a Press Release issued by Neha Bhansali)
NEW YORK (TIP): Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) NY-NJ-CT-NE culminated its India Day celebrations in grand style with a spectacular Bharat Beyond Borders Independence Gala at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street banquet hall on the evening of August 17th. Bharat Beyond Borders is a tribute to the global Indian identity. It celebrates the spirit of independence, excellence, and elegance that has transcended borders. This concept captures India’s timeless legacy and the modern Indian diaspora’s impact in every sphere: business, design, food, fashion, and thought leadership. Cipriani Wall Street majestic venue, renowned for its stunning Greek Revival architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for a night of elegance, unity, and vibrant celebration.
Over 600 members of the Indian-American community, dignitaries, and esteemed guests gathered for this prestigious event. The gala shone with star power, welcoming distinguished guests including Hon. Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York; New York City Mayor Eric Adams; Shri Thanedar, U.S. representative for Michigan’s 13th congressional district; Indian Member of Parliament Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu; and the hugely popular Bollywood superstars Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, fresh from leading the India Day Parade as Grand Marshals.
The evening was a feast for the senses. Attendees enjoyed a delectable and diverse traditional Indian menu, expertly curated and presented by Andaaz Restaurant, featuring what was hailed as the longest dessert table in New York City.
Entertainment was a major highlight, blending cultures and stages. The audience was treated to captivating Indian dance performances, energetic Broadway-style acts, and the unexpected, lively rhythms of a live Mexican Mariachi band, showcasing the FIA’s embrace of global diversity.
Bollywood superstars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna
A deeply heartfelt philanthropic gesture marked the occasion, as Indian community leaders joined forces to donate 300 wheelchairs for differently-abled children in India, demonstrating the community’s commitment to giving back to their homeland.
The gala also featured special video messages of goodwill from Hon. Senator Chuck Schumer and Hon. New York Governor Kathy Hochul, extending their greetings and congratulations for India’s Independence Day.
The FIA NY-NJ-CT-NE Bharat Beyond Borders Independence Gala 2025 was more than just a dinner; it was a powerful testament to the community’s pride, cultural richness, philanthropic spirit, and influential presence on the global stage, beautifully concluding a day dedicated to celebrating India’s rich heritage and the enduring bonds between India and America.
(With inputs from a Press release from Rohit Korat)
NEW YORK, NY (TIP): A new wave of divine grace is sweeping across America. Paramahamsa Vishwananda, the living flame of bhakti and radiant heart of the global Bhakti Marga movement, is awakening millions to the timeless truth of Divine Love. To sit in his presence is to experience the gentle yet transformative power of unconditional love — a love that heals the soul’s deepest longing and draws hearts closer to God.
From his earliest years, immersed in prayer and temples, it was clear he was no ordinary child. Through miracles and profound simplicity, he revealed the eternal truth that the Divine dwells within all. Today, as a living Master, he continues to guide seekers back to their eternal essence and the sweetness of surrender through devotion.
With his mission to “open the hearts of humanity to recognize eternal Divine Love,” Guruji has led over 75 sacred pilgrimages, visited 50 countries and 350 cities, offering darshan and satsang to countless seekers. The Bhakti Marga mission now thrives in 82 countries with 17 ashrams, 68 temples, and more than 220 active groups worldwide — living expressions of his grace.
Through his blessings, over 600,000 souls have received direct darshan. Millions more continue to be inspired daily by his presence — in person, online, and through the global community of devotees. His life stands as a testament to the eternal truths of Sanatana Dharma: devotion transcends all boundaries, unites all hearts, and reveals the eternal bond between soul and the Divine.
Western Seekers Embrace the Ancient Path
In a remarkable sign of the times, millions of Westerners are also turning to Paramahamsa Vishwananda. Drawn by his fresh and time-appropriate expression of Sanatana Dharma, they are immersing themselves fully in the living tradition he embodies. With boundless clarity and compassion, he has founded the Hari Bhakta Sampradaya — a spiritual lineage that channels the aspirations of seekers into the unifying current of bhakti.
For Guruji, true transformation is not in turning away from or rejecting life, but in embracing it fully — in all its abundant richness and diversity — and weaving devotion into every moment. When life is lived as an offering, the heart blossoms, awakening love, devotion, and the eternal truth of the soul, bringing harmony to both the inner and outer worlds.
Paramahamsa Vishwananda Emphasizes Narasimha Temple in Elmira is a Spiritual Powerhouse Here to Offer Divine Protection for a Troubled World
Paramahamsa Vishwananda’s U.S. home is the Paranitya Narasimha Ashram and Temple in Elmira, New York — the largest Narasimha Temple in North America, consecrated in 2023.
Once a Christian church, it has been reborn as a radiant sanctuary of Sanatana Dharma. At its heart shines the swayambhu form of Lord Narasimha — majestic, compassionate, and overflowing with grace. Towering over eight feet and weighing 3.5 tons, this awe-inspiring deity radiates protection and devotion far beyond the temple walls, making Elmira a sacred destination for seekers across the world.
The temple unites cultures in a rare way. Murals of Christ, saints, and Gospel stories run parallel to murals of the Dashavatar, the story of Bhakta Prahlad, depictions of Krishna, Narasimha, and great bhaktas alongside murtis of Maha Lakshmi, Rukmini Panduranga, Tulsi Devi, Mahavatar Babaji, and Ramanuja Acharya.
Across the street, the Devi Mandir houses Maha Lakshmi, Kali Ma, and Durga Ma, whose motherly presence blesses all who visit. Here, Christ and Krishna meet in many forms, creating a living tapestry where East and West, faith and devotion, converge. Behind the altar, more than 3,000 sacred Shaligrams sanctify the space, receiving abhishekam on each Ekadashi, while pilgrims perform parikrama and darshan weekly.
Many testify to miracles, healing, and the unmistakable presence of Narasimha’s grace — guarding, uplifting, and awakening every soul. As Paramahamsa Vishwananda has revealed, Narasimha’s energy is especially vital in our times, when negativity is widespread. Known as the most merciful of avatars, Narasimha is the cosmic force of God who creates, sustains, and transforms universes. His presence in Elmira calls every heart to awaken, to return to love, and to realize the ultimate reality of the Divine.
The Divine USA Tour
On his way to New York City, Paramahamsa Vishwananda was warmly received at the Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey. The next day, on August 9, he gave his very first darshan at the iconic Riverside Church in Manhattan.
Over 1,250 people filled the cathedral for six hours of devotion, music, and darshan. The atmosphere was electric with love; tears flowed, hearts opened, and many experienced deep peace and reconnection to their spiritual roots. Among the distinguished guests was Teja Shah of VHPA, underscoring the event’s interfaith significance.
At its heart was a timeless reminder:
“I am not giving you this Love — I am helping you remember and experience the Love that has always been within you.” — Paramahamsa Vishwananda
Paramahamsa Vishwananda’s U.S. home: the Paranitya Narasimha Ashram and Temple in Elmira, New York — the largest Narasimha Temple in North America, consecrated in 2023.
Festivals in Elmira: Krishna Janmashtami and More
Back at the Elmira Ashram, nearly 500 devotees joined Paramahamsa Vishwananda for a weekend of joyous celebrations — Kali Ma Jayanti, Krishna Janmashtami, and live darshan. The sacred rituals filled the atmosphere with music, devotion, and divine joy. More than a festival, it became a living encounter with the Divine.
Devotion in Miami
In Miami, over 300 people gathered for satsang and darshan, where Western seekers immersed themselves in sound bath, meditation, kirtan, and Guruji’s blessings. Paramahamsa Vishwananda sang sacred chants, guided meditation, and personally blessed each attendee. The evening was filled with tears, laughter, and a tangible sense of the Divine.
Among the guests was Syamarani Dasi, renowned disciple of Srila Prabhupada, whose devotional paintings of Radha and Krishna are cherished worldwide. Guruji also visited the Sacred Vedic Arts Temple to honor her decades of devotional service through sacred art.
Many testify to miracles, healing, and the unmistakable presence of Narasimha’s grace
Direct Transmission After 18 Years: A Prophetic Soul Awakening in Elmira
The U.S. tour now reaches its most sacred moment — the Soul Awakening Retreat, September 11–14, at the U.S. Ashram in Elmira, New York. This four-day immersion is not merely a gathering, but a turning point for seekers worldwide. For the first time in 18 years, Paramahamsa Vishwananda will once again bestow the direct transmission of Atma Kriya Yoga, unveiling its eternal truth in the living fullness of a satguru’s grace.
Passed down by the immortal Mahavatar Babaji, Atma Kriya Yoga has long been known as a path of liberation — burning karma, purifying body and mind, awakening the soul to its own eternal light. Yet what makes this moment historic is Guruji’s revelation of its deepest essence: the heartbeat of kriya is bhakti. The highest fruit of practice is not technique alone, but the flowering of Divine Love itself.
To sit in the presence of a living Master and receive such a transmission is exceedingly rare. It is the nectar of thousands of years of lineage — distilled, embodied, and given directly in a form both timeless and practical, offered in the simple frame of a four-day retreat. Here, the ancient science of yoga meets the sweetness of devotion. What the rishis practiced in silence and what the saints poured into song is revealed to be one and the same.
The Soul Awakening in Elmira is a radiant testament to Paramahamsa Vishwananda’s divine mission: to reawaken humanity to the eternal truth of Sanatana Dharma. Through this retreat, prophecy comes alive — the West receiving the sacred union of kriya and bhakti, opening the way for countless souls to know the Divine not as a concept, but as the Beloved dwelling in their own hearts.
If your soul has been searching, waiting, or silently longing, consider this a sign. Such moments do not return. The call is now.
UNIONDALE, NY (TIP): The Indian community of Long Island came together to celebrate the 79th Independence Day of India, organized by Navika Capital Group and Blue Sky Hospitality Solutions at the Marriott Long Island. Over 1000 community members, local leaders, and distinguished guests attended, including Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, NY, and Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, India.
