Tag: NY/NJ/CT

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

2. Navneet Sikka, Youth Ambassador, honoring a Visionary Leader, recognizing exceptional achievements in business, entrepreneurship, and social activism, Distinguished Businesswoman, Dedicated Social Activist.
3. 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!

NEW YORK (TIP):  On the occasion of International Yoga Day 2025, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), which is an international network of people of Indian origin. Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Founder and speaker of “Happy Life Yoga,” Tirlok Malik, in collaboration with The Indian Panorama and the Indian American Forum, will host a vibrant, interactive Happy Life Yoga event featuring a lineup of speakers from diverse walks of life. Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, will be the Chief Guest. Other distinguished speakers include Dr. Thomas Abraham (Chairman of GOPIO International), Prakash Shah (GOPIO President), and Meera Gandhi (founder and CEO of Giving Back Foundation). Professor Indrajit Saluja (Chief Editor of The Indian Panorama), Indu Jaiswal (Chairperson of Indian American Forum), Beena Kothari (President of AIA NY), Praveen Chopra (Founder of Lotus in the MUD), Anil Narang (Vegan Ambassador), Dr. Renee Mehrra, Neha Lohia (Filmmaker) and Sneha Jain (Filmmaker).

The theme for this year centers around a universal question:
“HOW TO STAY PEACEFUL AND HAPPY IN THE MIDST OF THE WORLD TODAY?”

The International Day of Yoga is a day of recognition for yoga, celebrated annually around the world on 21 June, following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014. The initiative for International Yoga Day was taken by India’s Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in his 2014 UN address.

The event promises to be energetic, informative, and celebratory, filled with meaningful insights and practical takeaways. Host Tirlok Malik will engage in thoughtful conversations with the panelists, unveiling their mantras for happiness. While celebrating Yoga’s ever-growing relevance in today’s world, Malik will share the philosophy behind his Happy Life Yoga, a lifestyle practice inspired by the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Indian philosophy. His unique, no-mat-needed workshop encourages self-love and well-being as essential steps toward happiness, making ancient knowledge relevant and accessible for the modern world.

Supported by several New York-based media outlets, the event will be a joyous tribute to Yoga’s timeless impact. Tirlok Malik and the team warmly invite everyone to join in this global celebration of well-being, mindfulness, and joy.

“Eat right, think right, move right is the simplest way to be healthier and happier.

– Tirlok Malik (Founder of Happy Life Yoga).

ZOOM ID AND PASSCODE: Meeting ID: 709 536 8686, Passcode: gopio OR LINK https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7095368686?pwd=c3J5UUdncDJYOExpR3ByTU14OXprZz09HYPERLINK “https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7095368686?pwd=c3J5UUdncDJYOExpR3ByTU14OXprZz09&omn=88284190252″&HYPERLINK “https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7095368686?pwd=c3J5UUdncDJYOExpR3ByTU14OXprZz09&omn=88284190252″omn=88284190252

EDISON, NJ (TIP): The Gandhian Society (USA) proudly hosted a distinguished Meet and Greet event on Monday, May 26th, at Royal Albert’s Palace in Edison, New Jersey, in honor of Smt. Rajashree Birla, Chairperson of the multi-conglomerate multi-national Aditya Birla Group. The evening also marked the formal announcement of the Aditya Birla Group and Gandhian Society’s joint landmark initiative — the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center, to be established in Central New Jersey.

This milestone event brought together a diverse gathering of community members, civic leaders, and dignitaries, all united by a shared commitment to promoting the timeless values of Mahatma Gandhi. The Eternal Gandhi Peace Center is envisioned as a vibrant community hub dedicated to education, dialogue, and programs focused on non-violence, social justice, and harmony.

The evening featured a series of captivating cultural performances that showcased local artistic talent and reflected the spirit of unity and peace. Distinguished guests including Mayor Sam Joshi (Edison), Mayor John McCormac (Woodbridge), and Consul Ms. Pragnya Singh delivered inspiring remarks, underscoring the importance of Gandhian principles in addressing the challenges of the modern world.

In her keynote address, Smt. Rajashree Birla shared insightful reflections on the power of peace, compassion, and service which were among the founding principles of Gandhiji’s teachings and values he lived by. She gave some rare glimpses of Gandhiji’s journey from Shri Mohandas to Mahatma. She also elaborated upon the Aditya Birla Group’s “Eternal Gandhi & Special Projects” headed by Shri Nitin Mathuria – President of the Birla Group, who was also present at the event, and the various digital interactive multi-media Museums/Gandhi Peace Centres set up and run by this Project worldwide. She also commended the Gandhian Society’s efforts to keep Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy alive through meaningful community engagement.

During the event, the Society presented its vision for the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center, outlining future activities aimed at fostering youth engagement, cultural exchange, and civic responsibility.

The Gandhian Society extends its deepest gratitude to Smt. Rajashree Birla, Mr Nitin Mathuria, honored guests, volunteers, performers, and attendees for making the launch of the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center a resounding success. This event marks the beginning of an exciting journey toward nurturing peace and understanding in the heart of New Jersey.

About the Gandhian Society

The Gandhian Society is a nonprofit organization committed to spreading Gandhian values through educational programs, cultural initiatives, and youth outreach. To learn more, visit www.gandhiansociety.org.

New Legislation Would Deliver Relief to Over 30 Types of Small Businesses Burdened by Excessive County Licensing Costs

BELLMORE, NY (TIP): At a press conference held on May 22 at All American Cleaners, Nassau County Legislator Seth I. Koslow, joined by colleagues Delia DeRiggi-Whitton and Olena Nicks, unveiled legislation to permanently cut small business license fees across Nassau County — fees that currently run three to five times higher than in neighboring Suffolk County. “This isn’t about giving small businesses a handout. it’s about stopping a county government that keeps handing them the bill,” said Legislator Koslow. “Right now, we’re charging local entrepreneurs like they’re major corporations. These fees are outdated, unfair, and driving people out of Nassau.”

The proposed legislation targets more than 30 categories of business licenses, including dry cleaners, locksmiths, dog groomers, health clubs, home service providers, and more — slashing annual fees that currently reach up to $1,300 per business.

Mark, the owner of All American Dry Cleaners, pays $650 per year just for the license to operate, a figure nearly unheard of elsewhere.

“If you want to groom dogs, hang a sign, or fix locks in Nassau, you’re looking at hundreds of dollars in yearly fees. It reads less like a licensing schedule and more like a shakedown list,” Koslow added.

While these everyday business owners are struggling, the lawmakers criticized County Executive Bruce Blakeman for prioritizing “fireworks, photo ops, and political rallies” over real economic relief.

“Bruce Blakeman can find millions for celebrations,” Koslow said, “but nothing for the people who power our economy.”

Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said the fee structure exposes the hypocrisy of an administration that claims to support small business while leaning on them to pad the budget:

“Whether you’re in Glen Cove or Bellmore, small businesses are getting squeezed. We’ve seen what this administration values: vanity projects. But ask a pet groomer or gym owner how that helps pay their $650 licensing fee. This bill is what real relief looks like.”

Legislator Olena Nicks emphasized the equity and economic justice at the heart of the proposal:

“Why should a young entrepreneur in Nassau pay triple what someone pays across the county line? That’s not competition, that’s punishment. These fees hit hardest for women, minority, and veteran-owned startups. This bill is how we level the playing field.”

Legislator Debra Mulé echoed the urgency of reform.

“Nassau’s economy runs on small business, and those businesses are being choked by outdated fees. Cutting them is not just good policy, it’s the right thing to do. This legislation puts working people and local entrepreneurs first.”

The proposal comes at a time when Nassau’s small businesses need help the most. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Nassau is home to over 200,000 small businesses. Small businesses make up over 99% of all businesses in the county and employ the majority of Nassau’s workforce.

Koslow will introduce the legislation at the next meeting of the Nassau County Legislature. The sponsors are urging bipartisan support to fast-track the measure before the summer session ends.

“At a time when families are feeling the squeeze, the least we can do is stop squeezing the businesses that keep our communities alive,” Koslow said. “If Bruce Blakeman won’t lead on that, we will.”

Vocalist Gita Setia honored with ASLI Empowered Women Award

JERICHO, NY (TIP): Arya Samaj of Long Island (ASLI) organized a gala evening of Bhajans in commemoration of Mother’s Day, at Cotillion, Jericho on Saturday, May 10.
While the Long Islander vocalist Gita Setia sang soulful Bhajans , renowned artists from India -Supriyo Dutta – a vocalist, Aarchik Banerjee, a Tabla player, and Sangeet Mishra on Sarangi added to creating an extremely pleasing musical evening of Bhajans.
The Bhajan Sandhya was very well coordinated by Anju Sharma.
Smt. Purnima Desai, President and Founder of Sriniketan Foundation, New York, a passionate promoter of Indian Classical music and dances, addressed the gathering and also sang a few Bhajans. Supervisor of the Town of North Hempstead, NY presented citations to the artists and officials of the Arya Samaj of Long Island.

NEW YORK (TIP): CRY America’s 2025 Gala series was held across 6 cities with legendary actress Shabana Azmi appealing to the guests to do “our duty as a society to support organizations like CRY that work at the grassroots with projects that make transformative changes in the lives of children”. The evenings were an amalgam of glamor and generosity, with a cocktail hour, hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, dinner, donor appreciation, pledge session, Bollywood music and dancing. An online auction with paintings donated by Indian artists, designer outfits & jewelry added interest to the event. The CRY Galas raised $1.4 million which will be directed towards ensuring children’s rights to a happy, healthy & educated life.

Guest Speakers included NYC’s Celebrity Chef Vikas Khanna in New York, Subrat Tripathy from L&T Technologies leadership team in Houston, Nakul Duggal, Qualcomm’s Group General Manager in San Diego, MR Rangaswami, founder of Indiaspora in the Bay Area and Sanjeev Sehgal, VP Caliber Collision in Austin. They spoke about their conviction that the Indian diaspora had the choice and resources to support organizations like CRY America that give children a better future. Shefali Sunderlal, CRY America’s CEO, talked about the ‘multiplier effect’ that these programs have, not only irreversibly transforming the lives of children in CRY supported Projects, but also lifting communities out of cycles of disenfranchisement.

CRY’s Project Partner Lalithamma spoke about her work in the villages of Telangana district, Andhra Pradesh and shared stories of children whose life trajectories had been completely changed. Kalpana was pulled out of school to work as a vegetable seller to support her family. But due to the efforts of Project PORD, she was able to finish her schooling and now works as an engineer at a reputable company. Mahesh, too, had to drop out of school and work as a farm laborer. Project PORD intervened and he was not only able to finish his studies, he now works at a national bank and mentors other children who are in the same situation as he was.

Thank you to our event sponsors Laxmi, SBI, GDB International, Guru Krupa, Parikh Worldwide Media, TV Asia, Dallas Venture Capital, MSR Communities, Morgan Stanley, Allstate Foundation, Alice, Minx Events, Merlin, Vantive, Cellpay, Meena Datt Radio, Texas Inpatient Consultants, Alphabet Club, Children’s Lighthouse, L&T Technology Solutions, Simran Patel Real Estate, Taproot Solutions, RockNGrill, Prime Dental, Shiva Jewelers, Trinity Texas Realty, Genpiper Solutions, DB World Foods, Marc Robinson Jewelers, among others.

CRY America thanks its Gala Committees, generous donors, project partners, media, volunteers & staff for their ongoing commitment towards turning children’s dreams into reality.

About CRY America: 

CRY, Child Rights and You America Inc (CRY America) is a 501c3 non-profit driven by its vision of a just world in which all children have equal opportunities to develop to their full potential and realize their dreams. With the support of over 35,000 donors and 2,000 volunteers, CRY America has impacted the lives of 825,000  children living across 5,000 villages and slums through support to 111 Projects in India and the USA.

For more information: contact Renuka Ramachandran at 617-981-2826; visit http://cryamerica.org or write to support@cryamerica.org

STAMFORD, CT (TIP): GOPIO International organized a Dinner/Meeting with GOPIO-CT officials and Indian Diaspora businesspeople to plan the launch of GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) – Connecticut Chapter. It was attended by GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, President Prakash Shah, General Secretary Siddharth Jain, Intl. Coordinator Raj Vangapaty, Associate Secretary Sunil Robert Vuppala and GOPIOI-CT President Mahesh Jhangiani and his team, the meeting started with a moment of silence for the victims of Pahalgam. Earlier GOPIO International had unequivocally condemned the terrorist action in Pahalgam. Attended by 25 participants, it was decided to officially launch chapter in the Summer. Hotelier and businessman Ravi Nichani of Stamford will lead this effort in Connecticut.

Currently, there are over 4 million small and medium businesses and professional practitioners among the Indian Diaspora. GCCI chapters would help to network them locally and globally, which will greatly benefit them. As a connected society, this will help the small and medium businesses among the Diaspora and their counterparts in India.

GOPIO requests businesses and/or professional practitioners to take the initiate to such launches in all major cities and towns with Diaspora population. If interested open GCCI Chapter in your city or town, please call at 203-561-6187 or send an email to gopio@optonline.net.

Mega Jaipur Foot Camp in the Region soon

NEW YORK/PORT OF SPAIN (TIP): Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Devendranath Tankoo over the phone on his appointment as the new Finance Minister of Trinidad & Tobago. Bhandari described Tankoo as a great supporter of the Jaipur Foot movement and expressed full confidence in his leadership and vision.

Bhandari also welcomed the re-election of Kamla Persad-Bissessar as the Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago, marking her return to the highest office after a decade. He later sent a formal congratulatory letter to Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, applauding her leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.

He mentioned that a Mega Jaipur Foot Camp will soon be organized in Trinidad & Tobago to benefit hundreds of differently-abled individuals by providing them with free artificial limbs. Bhandari acknowledged the vital role played by Indian High Commissioner Dr. Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit in facilitating this initiative. He also noted that the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, has given its in-principle approval for the upcoming camp.

Reflecting on past milestones, Bhandari recalled that in 2016, Jaipur Foot USA, through its parent organization Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), held a mega camp in Mhow, Indore, to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. That historic event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In the year 2018, the Ministry of External Affairs launched the ‘India for Humanity’ initiative as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi. In collaboration with BMVSS, this initiative has since promoted the spirit of seva (service) through the organization of Jaipur Foot camps around the world.

Since 2018, under the “India for Humanity” initiative 32 international Jaipur Foot camps have been successfully conducted across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Bhandari emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly believes in the ancient Indian philosophy encapsulated in the Maha Upanishad (Chapter 6, Verse 71): “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — “The world is one family.” Inspired by this timeless ideal, many more humanitarian camps are being planned for the future.

Bhandari said that Padma Bhushan D.R. Mehta, Founder and Chief Patron of BMVSS, will personally travel from Jaipur, India, to attend the upcoming camp in Trinidad & Tobago.

He also shared that since its inception in 1975, by D R Mehta, BMVSS has benefited nearly 2.3 million differently-abled individuals worldwide, including 114 international camps, making it the world’s largest NGO serving the differently-abled.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – Alexandra Badaway of North Brunswick will speak as class valedictorian at the 2025 Middlesex College Commencement Ceremony on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Jersey Mike’s Arena.

“When I found out I was named valedictorian, I felt an overwhelming mix of pride, gratitude, and disbelief. It was a full-circle moment,” said Badaway.

After overcoming a health crisis, financial struggles, and personal loss, beginning her academic journey at Middlesex College offered Badaway a fresh start. She credits programs like the Equal Opportunity Fund for providing her with the resources to not just survive, but thrive.

“I needed a place to heal and grow. Middlesex College offered me more than academics; it gave me a sense of belonging and a community that believed in me,” said Badaway. “It was here that I found my purpose and started rewriting my story.”

As Badaway became more comfortable in the college environment, she found herself falling into a “big sister” role for her peers on campus. She led the Juvenile Justice Reform Club, became a Bonner Leader, an ESL tutor, and a resource for students who faced language and academic barriers like she once had.

“I’ve helped classmates apply for scholarships, navigate college systems, and tap into opportunities,” said Badaway. “The person who represents the student body should be motivated by collective success, not just individual gains. That’s what drives me. We are a team, and I’ve always believed that when one of us wins, we all win.”

While juggling work, classes, and mentoring fellow students, Badaway continued to maintain her 4.0 GPA. She is also a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member, America Needs You Fellow, 2024 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar, and recently became a semi-finalist for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship.

The leadership and advocacy opportunities Middlesex College provided confirmed Badaway’s career path. She plans to use her education to become a changemaker in law, public policy, or higher education and advocate for justice-impacted communities.

“My future is rooted in service, specifically in the fields of law, public policy, or education,” said Badaway. “Middlesex College gave me the tools and the clarity to chase a future where I can shape systems, fight for justice, and empower the next generation.” While she has not finalized where she will transfer, she has quite a remarkable list to choose from. Badaway has already been accepted into Columbia and New York University, but her decision will ultimately depend on funding.

Though Commencement is approaching, this may not be the last you see of Badaway on campus. As she states, one of her goals is to use her future education to give back to the community.

“One day, I hope to return to Middlesex College as a mentor or educator, to give back to the institution that played such a pivotal role in transforming my life and dreams,” said Badaway.

More About Commencement

To learn more about the 58th Annual Middlesex College Commencement, visit: https://middlesexcollege.edu/commencement/

 MIDDLESEX COLLEGE, NJ

Middlesex College, established in 1964, is a public, two-year institution of higher education located in the heart of New Jersey. With a main campus in Edison and centers in New Brunswick and Perth Amboy, Middlesex College offers over 85 degree and certificate programs encouraging its more than 10,000 students to explore, grow, and thrive. Middlesex College, through dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art educational facilities, and holistic student supports, is committed to providing a high-quality, affordable college education that provides every student an opportunity for growth and achievement. Middlesex College is Middlesex County’s premier destination for lifelong learning and workforce training. Learn more at middlesexcollege.edu.

MELVILLE, NY (TIP): In a spiritually uplifting and community-empowering event, Anand  Marg held its “Vision and Value” program at the Hilton in Long Island, New York, on May 4th. The event celebrated the recent acquisition of 101 acres of pristine land in Stafford, Connecticut, where the Anand Kalpataru Health and Wellness Center is now being established.

The gathering brought together distinguished community leaders, philanthropists, and spiritual seekers to support this noble initiative, which aims to offer holistic healing, spiritual retreat, natural living, and community service for generations to come.

Mr. Naveen Shah, Chairman of the Navika  Group and the lead sponsor of the event, presented the project’s vision and shared plans for developing a world-class health and wellness center. His leadership was warmly received by all attendees and has sparked meaningful support from the wider East Coast community.

The program commenced with a devotional performance from the Bhagavad Gita, led by Srimati Purnima Desai, Founder and Chairperson of Sikshayatan and  Sriniketan, setting a serene and spiritual tone for the evening. The event concluded with a cultural song and a community dinner that fostered unity and inspiration.

Key leaders recognized for their contributions and presence included:

• Acarya Abhiramananda Avadhuta, Sectorial Secretary of the New York Sector, along with his committed team: Acharya Kovid Brahmacharii, Brother Timir Prabhakar, Sister Sefali, Brother Shukhdev Ji, and Acarya Anudhananda Avadhuta
• Brother Jasvir Singh (Jasbir Singh Jai), board member and event lead coordinator
• Esteemed community supporters: Anju Sharma Ji, Sanju Sharma Ji, Shashi Ji, Dilip Ji, Vijay Khanna Ji, Musafir Gulati Ji, Har Govind Ji, Omkar Singh Ji, Arish Sahni Ji, Haridas Ji, Anuj Jain Ji, Gobind Bhatija Ji, and Radhu Ji.
• Shri Indrajit Saluja Ji, senior journalist and professor, for his honored presence

The Anand Kalpataru Health and Wellness Center will include:

• A meditation hall for spiritual practice
• A holistic health center
• Dormitories, cottages, and nature-inspired accommodations
• Space for retreats, yoga, community service, and eco-living

Anand Marg warmly invites individuals and families across New York, New Jersey, Boston, Connecticut, and the East Coast to join this sacred mission. Contributions, both large and small, will help shape a legacy of wellness, spirituality, and self-realization.

“This project is a blessing not just for today but for the future of humanity,” said an Anand Marg spokesperson. “We welcome all with open hearts to be part of this divine journey.”

(Bases on a Press release)