Tag: Queens

  • PANCHAMUKHA HANUMAN

    PANCHAMUKHA HANUMAN

    Both of Keshari’s wives welcomed the unexpected guest and served him whole heartedly. Agastya was highly satisfied and told the wives to ask for any boon they wished. “I want the mightiest son, who will be highly bold and strong in the world. Totally devoted to universe welfare,” Anjana requested. “So be it,” Maharishi Agastya approved the wish for both of them, and in due course of time, Anjana gave birth to Sri Hanuman Ji who became all powerful and Adrika gave birth to a son, Adri by name, who became governor of all the goblins. Soon after Maharishi granted the boon, Maharishi Agastya realized that Lord Shiva himself was going to be born as the son of Anjana. He ordered her to go to meditate on the hill Venkatadri in Vrishabhachal on the bank of Akashaganga. This was the most appropriate place to materialize her desire.

    Thus, one day, she was absorbed in a long meditation, the wind God appeared and said, “Adorable devi, I am pleased with you. You will attain a mighty son, one who will not be affected by any weapons whatsoever. I shall become your son myself. He will be equal to me in power and speed. Thus saying, the wind God infused his light into mother Anjana. Great souls seldom move from their celestial abodes unless there is a mission for them to fulfill. Then the whole creation awaits their advent.

    In the same way, there were do many reasons for the advent of Sri Hanuman ji. The natural instinct of Keshari was to wander around to different holy places, and when ever found a scenic garden he used to sit in long meditation. Once, while he was residing in Gokarna (a holy place of Lord Shiva near Goa), he found a great monster, Shambasadana, continuously persecuting the holy saints who were residing there. Keshari confronted this monster and hit him forcefully with his fist.

    There was a great wrestling match and at last Keshari was successful in slaying him. All of the rishis were extremely happy with Keshari’s feat and blessed him so that he might attain an almighty, enlightened son, who would become very hot tempered to any unjust act. They then offered a very powerful mantra of Lord Shiva. After Keshari had been repeating this powerful mantra, Lord Shiva appeared and blessed him, and Lord Shiva’s light entered into Keshari’s body. Keshari felt as if he was no longer a mortal. When the rishis saw him full of effulgence they suggested that he return to his home.

    At the same moment, Anjana returned home after receiving her boon from the wind God. When she saw her husband after such a long time she was filled with rapturous joy and fell down at his feet. Keshari was overwhelmed with love. He raised her u with his two arms and embraced her, and for some time they became one in that universal silence. Keshari did not remain Keshari and Anjana was no longer Anjana, they became one in love trance and in that love trance Shiva’s light, which was abiding in Keshari was transmitted to Anjana. She felt as if bathed in effulgent bliss, light, and grace.

    Now Keshari became as he was before the visit of Lord Shiva. All of Lord Siva’s effulgence was transmitted to Anjana. Anjana abandoned that special simple dress which she had adopted in the time of separation from her dear husband. She wore instead a gorgeous silk sari, golden necklaces, a crown earrings embedded with gems and jewels. She was adorned beautifully! The husband and wife began to enjoy in the groves on the top of the mountain. On the planet Bramha, which is situated about one hundred and sixteen million miles above polestar, there was a nymph whose name was Suvarchala.

    She was very fond of blossoming, fragrant flowers. Once she rushed to some flowers in the assembly of Bramha. The creator, Brahma, is found of good manners and certain formalities and was not pleased with Suvarchal’s impulsive action he cursed her saying. “You, being born into the race of gods, possess no patience, so you will become a crow”, Suvarchala repented and, falling at his feet, asked for a pardon from Lord Brahma, He mercifully forgave her and said, “In the silver age, on planer Earth, king Dasjaratha will receive a bowl of diving rice pudding after his ceremony of putreshthi yajna.

    He will then distribute it among his three queens. You woll take away queen Sumitra’s share, and then by the touch of that divine, blesses rice pudding you will attain your original form and come to my planet again.” The time described by Brahma arrived and king Dashatatha was performing his fire sacrifices festivity on the bank of the holy Sarayu river. It was definitely an interplanetary festivity.

    King Dasharatha fed millions of guests. He offered almost all of his property and empire to enlightened rishis, which they, in turn, gave back to him after accepting a small exchange. A huge masculine form then arose from the sacrificial fire with a bowl of celestial rice pudding in his hand. His body was red like ultraviolet rays. He had long golden hair, a long beard, and large eyes. He spoke like a rumbling cloud, saying, “My dear king Dasharatha, the gods of higher planets are highly satisfied with you because of your sacrificial festivity, and they have sent you this rice pudding, let the queens respectfully eat it and then they will give birth to four incomparable babies who will redeem the earth from all the evil forces.”

    The whole assembly of saints, kings, and rishis were all silent while the king was distributing the rice pudding among his queens. As soon as the king placed a protion in the open palms of Sumitra, Suvarchala, in her form as a crow, jumped as it. She held it fast with her legs and beak and flew away high into the sky. Kousalya ans Kaikeyi, the other two queens, shared their porting of pudding with Sumitra. Thus Sumitra gave birth to two babies. As soon as the crow rushed to the open sky there arose a heavy wind and hurricane.

    The bird stumbled and the rice pudding was touched by her body. Immediately she regained her celestial form and the body of the crow fell down to earth. The wind god then took the bowl pudding and appeared on the hill top groves where the couple, Anjana and Keshari, was wandering. The wind told Keshari and Anjana that he had come there to offer them with celestial rice pudding, “Allow Anjana to eat it and she will give birth to the mightiest child, a boon I was granted her some time ago.”

    After receiving the order from her dear husband, Anjana accepted the bowl of rice pudding. Feeling much joy she put it against her heart and head and then wind God disappeared. Anjana ate the pudding and became pregnant. Soon after, as demigod races do not require the full nine months in womb, she gave birth to Sri Hanuman ji on Tuesday, in the month of October. This is why all great devotees of Sri Hanuman ji observe a fast on Tuesdays.

  • Queens Borough President Melinda Katz mourns the death of author and poet Maya Angelou

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz mourns the death of author and poet Maya Angelou

    QUEENS, NY (TIP): Mourning the death of legendary Maya Angelou, author and poet, May 28, at 86, Queens Borough President Melinda Katz said, “Maya Angelou was a brilliant memoirist and poet whose work allowed readers from around the world to better understand the unique struggles that came with being an African American woman who grew up in the Jim Crow South.

    She was one of the most important literary and cultural figures our nation has produced and her immense legacy will live on through her prolific body of work, which will be read, studied and appreciated for generations to come. I am truly saddened by her loss and express my condolences to her family and friends and to the millions of readers who admired her so much.”

  • Progressive Democrat John Liu officially announces Campaign for State Senate

    Progressive Democrat John Liu officially announces Campaign for State Senate

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP): With a broad progressive coalition, and widespread support based on a record of delivering real results, former City Comptroller and Councilman John Liu, May 22, announced the launch of his campaign for the 11th State Senate District in Queens. In recent weeks, Liu has been buoyed by the overwhelming support from local elected officials, Democratic Party leaders and a host of prominent community activists who encouraged him to enter the primary. “I humbly declare my candidacy for the State Senate to represent northeast Queens, where I’ve lived and grown up my whole life and am now raising my own family,” said Liu.

    “This community is bedrock of New York, and the people here rightfully demand and deserve effective results-oriented representation. I offer my legislative experience and fiscal expertise to solve issues, from quality of life concerns to deep economic inequities. In the State Senate, I will tirelessly fight for a real minimum wage, rights for working people, women’s equality and resources for public schools, transportation and healthcare. Over the next several months, I will take my message straight to the voters of Senate District 11 to ask for your support.” There will be major announcements to come, including details on the official campaign kickoff this week.

    About John
    The first Asian American to have been elected to citywide office, John Liu has always been a fighter for the hardworking people of this city, first as a member of the New York City Council, then as City Comptroller. The 43rd Comptroller of New York City, John Liu established an impressive record as the chief financial officer for 8.4 million residents and overseeing municipal government with an annual budget of $70 billion.

    John saved taxpayers $5 billion through rigorous audits of City agencies, detailed scrutiny of contracts with private companies, and refinancing of $20 billion of outstanding City bond debt. During his four-year term of office, he achieved an enviable total investment return, increasing the City’s pension asset portfolio to $150 billion. John created the nationally acclaimed online application “CheckbookNYC.com” providing unprecedented transparency in government spending.

    He facilitated economic development and new job creation with acceleration of City capital projects, capturing low interest rates in the bond markets. Always emphasizing that “it’s not just about numbers, it’s about people,” John Liu championed fairness and equality. An early and staunch opponent of stop-and-frisk tactics, John highlighted the risks to communities and taxpayers alike due to damaged police-community relations.

    John presented daily-updated M/WBE Report Cards for City agencies to monitor and encourage greater government contracting opportunities for minority entrepreneurs. John also proposed sound economic policies to create real economic growth and narrow the ever-widening wealth gap, protected wage standards and recouped back wages and fines on behalf of cheated workers from contractors who just don’t want to play by the rules, and exposed the billions of dollars in publiclysubsidized corporate welfare doled out by the City that failed to deliver on promised new jobs and fair housing.

    As a member of the New York City Council, John Liu represented his hometown of Flushing and northeast Queens. He secured millions of dollars in additional funding for schools, libraries, parks, senior citizen centers, and youth programs. John served as chairperson of the Council’s Transportation Committee overseeing operations of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Department of Transportation, and Taxi and Limousine Commission, and enacted legislation boosting efficiency and efficacy of key City agencies.

    John’s significant accomplishments as a legislator include exposing financial irregularities at the MTA, enacting legislation like the Equal Access Bill mandating on-demand language services in health and human services agencies, the School Zone Engine Idling Bill limiting engine idling near schools, and the Dignity for All Schools Act requiring the Department of Education to track bullying and harassment in schools.

    Hailed as a “Trailblazer” and “Pioneer,” John’s historic elections – as the first Asian American to win legislative office in New York and the first to win citywide office – were milestones for Asian Americans in New York and across the nation. Although he wishes Asian Americans had been elected long before, John is honored to be the first and embraces the opportunity to broaden representation and public service.

    John Liu emigrated from Taiwan at the age of five. He was educated in New York public schools, including Hunter College High School, Bronx High School of Science, and Binghamton University, attaining his degree in Mathematical Physics. John lives in Flushing with his wife Jenny and their son Joey.

  • Taxi driver convicted of raping female passenger, faces 25 years in prison

    Taxi driver convicted of raping female passenger, faces 25 years in prison

    NEW YORK (TIP): A Queens Court, on May 2, found Gurmeet Singh, 42, guilty of raping and kidnapping a 29-yearold female passenger but was cleared of robbery and assault as well as the top count of predatory sexual assault.

    The victim, a nonprofit employee, testified she hailed a yellow cab in Williamsburg after a Cinco de Mayo party in May 2011, dozed off and came to know when the defendant was on top of her. “Bound, gagged, blindfolded with a knife to her throat,” prosecutor Linda Weinman said in her closing argument.

    “(She) woke up to her worst nightmare.” The victim suffered cuts and a busted lip and her cell phone and $20 were missing. “I thought, ‘I’m going to get killed,’” she recounted through tears last week. Gurmeet Singh faces 25 years in prison when he’s sentenced May 12.

  • Vaisakhi 5 K Run organized

    Vaisakhi 5 K Run organized

    RICHMOND HILL, NY (TIP): On Sunday, April 27th, 2014-after weeks of anticipation and virally growing interest-a first-of-itskind race took place at the beautiful Forest Park. Crowds arrived from across the tristate area for a day of competition, community, faith, and fun. The Vaisakhi 5K Run drew more than 500 participants of all backgrounds and levels of fitness.

    Runners aged 14 through 76 ran their own victory laps from a track aptly called Victory Field. Outfitted with the official golden-colored race t-shirt, runners lit up the park with their enthusiasm and positive mood. Prabhnoor Singh Badesha (BIB# 860) was the first-place male winner, and Jasvinder Kaur Vraich (BIB# 931) was the first place female winner.

    Male: 2nd place, Navdeep Bains (BIB# 860)
    Male: 3rd place, Manipal Singh (BIB# 289)
    Female: 2nd place, Sukhzinder Braich (BIB# 929)
    Female: 3rd place, Gabriela Sanchez (BIB# 38)

    The race was organized by a long-time marathoner Dr. Avtar Singh Tinna and India Association of Long Island President Satnam Singh Parhar in association with The Sikh Cultural Society. Vaisakhi 5K, Inc., the organizing committee for the event, was staffed with the finest officials and volunteers. Many proud sponsors and media partners served to make the event all the more complete. Since 1991, Dr. Tinna has been a regular in the 26.2-mile New York City Marathon and a number of other running events across the United States.


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    Donning his signature t-shirt labeled “Proud to be a Sikh,” he runs with his saffron (kesri) turban, attracting an enormous crowd of spectators as he treks through his many races. This year, Dr. Tinna’s objective was to get others to run. The Vaisakhi 5K was successful in what Dr. Tinna sees as a tradition in the making-a tradition promoting athleticism, fitness, and sport.


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    “What better way,” says Dr. Tinna, “than to get the community together and get fit as one?” Dr. Tinna, a dentist by profession, maintains a practice in Queens, New York City. He was born in Punjab, India in the village of Seh Jhangi, Jalandhar. Having studied at DAV College in Jalandhar and graduating from Punjab Government Dental College and Hospital in Amritsar, Dr. Tinna moved to New York in 1980.

    He lives there today with his wife and four children. For more information on the Vaisakhi 5K, the organization, or any sponsorship inquiries, please feel free to contact info@vaisakhi5k.com.

  • Flushing Indian found stabbed to death

    Flushing Indian found stabbed to death

    NEW YORK (TIP): A 44-yearold man was discovered fatally stabbed near the Murray Hill LIRR station Tuesday, April 1 night, cops said. Officers found the victim, Arun Sachdeva of Flushing, just after 6 p.m. on 149th Place with multiple stab wounds to the chest, police said. He was rushed to New York Hospital Queens, where he was pronounced DOA, police said.

    Nothing was taken from Sachdeva and he did not appear to be robbed, the NYPD said. His wife was too distraught to speak about her husband, who was a plumber, when she answered her door Wednesday morning. Police would not confirm whether they have a suspect but said someone was being questioned concerning the murder. No arrests have been made yet, police said.

  • New York Life holds Career Orientation event for South Asian community

    New York Life holds Career Orientation event for South Asian community

    QUEENS, NY (TIP):
    The New York Life Insurance Company organized a Career Orientation Event for the South Asian community on March 18 in Queens, NY where over a 100 people showed up. Inspiring presentations were made by Lawrence I Gordon, Managing Partner of the company, Senior Partner Rohan Handa, and Partner Abdul Hanif.
    Gordon spoke about how 40 years ago New York Life changed his life. He recalled he had joined the company on April 16, 1974. Over the years, his entire family-father, mother, brothers, nephews- joined and it became a family business.

    “We consider ourselves the company of the community”, he said. “New York Life has been a great company to me and my family”, Gordon added. He introduced the over 170 year old company which was founded on April 12, 1848. They spoke about its financial strength.

    “We are the oldest, the largest mutual life insurance company.” And we are for the clients, “always on the client’s side”. Gordon invited young people from the South Asian community to come forward for a rewarding career. “We promise to give the finest training to those who come forward to join New York Life”. Rohan Handa spoke of his experiences and pointed out that all that one needs to become a successful agent, is to have selfmotivation, integrity and willingness to work hard.


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    Sam Kapadia spoke of his long and happy association with New York Life

    He said no previous experience in selling is necessary. The company’s multidimensional training and professional development program can put one on the path to success.

    Handa added, “As a New York Life Agent, you’ll not only have the opportunity to make a great career, you’ll also make a significant difference by helping families and members of the South Asian community plan for and achieve the financial security they need and desire.


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    Partners and Srinivas R. Ranga, Corporate Vice President of New York Life . (L to R): Rohan Handa, Abdul Hamid, Lawrence I Gordon, Srinivas R. Ranga, William “Bill” Cleare

    “Others who spoke included Srinivas R. Ranga, Corporate Vice President of the company, Abdul Hamid, Partner, and Sam Kapadia who has a long association with New York Life.

  • Queens man’s body found in plastic bag on Edgemere boardwalk

    Queens man’s body found in plastic bag on Edgemere boardwalk

    Mohammad Jaffer
    NEW YORK (TIP): The body of a 32-year-old Queens man was found inside a trash bag on a Far Rockaway beach Monday, March 24 morning after the man’s mom grew worried and tracked his phone, cops said. The missing man, identified as Quynton Ross, was last seen at 8 a.m. on Sunday, cops said. His mother pinged his phone that night and ended up at the boardwalk.

    She didn’t find anything then but returned in the morning to discover a bag containing bloody clothes, cops said. She called cops around 9:50 a.m. and they found a second garbage bag with a body inside at Beach 40th St. between Edgemere Ave. and the boardwalk. Ross, a photographer has a daughter with his girlfriend, he said.

  • The Water Rent is Too Damn High!

    The Water Rent is Too Damn High!

    Northeast Queens Council Members, Community Leaders Call on Mayor to Honor Commitment to Cease Gouging Taxpayers with Water Rates

    NEW YORK (TIP): Northeast Queens Council Members and community leaders, on Thursday, March 20, called on Mayor Bill de Blasio to honor his pledge to cease gouging taxpayers with excessively high water rates — a practice that the Mayor decried as “wrong” and a “stealth tax” during his campaign.

    The Council Members, Rory I. Lancman, Mark S. Weprin and Paul A. Vallone, released a letter to the Mayor at a press conference held in Fresh Meadows, Queens, following Lancman’s demand for action at a City Council Environmental Protection hearing held last week. Water rates are set annually by the New York City Water Board, which comprises seven members appointed by the Mayor. The revenues in part pay the debt service on bonds sold to build the City’s environmental infrastructure (water tunnels, filtration plants, etc.) issued by two sources: (a) the New York City Water Finance Authority (WFA) (comprising seven members, four of whom are appointed by the Mayor), and (b) the City itself prior to the Water Finance Authority’s creation in 1984.

    The bonds are repaid through rent installments to the City for leasing its environmental infrastructure to the Water Board in an amount either (a) equal to the City’s annual debt service obligations on the City’s bonds, or (b) 15% of the Water Finance Authority’s annual debt service — whichever is greater, although the Mayor has the authority to seek the lesser amount in his annual payment demand to the Water Board. Prior to 2005, the City had always secured the former sum from the Water Board; payment equaled the debt service on City bonds. Starting in 2005 however, the City started demanding the latter sum at 15%, which had become greater than the total represented by the city’s general obligation for water and sewer debt service.

    Since then, water rates have exceeded the cost of the City’s debt service. The prior Mayor refused to lower the City’s annual rent demand to the amount necessary to pay only the City’s water and sewer-related debt service. What resulted were astronomical water tax increases that have been used to prop up the City’s general fund. Despite the City’s water and sewer debt gradually shrinking over time, by 2012, the gap between the 15% figure and the City’s water debt had grown rapidly due to increases to the WFA debt service. Although payments were capped at the FY11 payment (given the rate of inflation), in many of the last ten years water rates have increased by double digits, and have cumulatively increased by an incredible 78% since 2005:

    Fiscal Year          Increase
    2014                   5.6%
    2013                   7.0%
    2012                   7.5%
    2011                   12.9%
    2010                   12.9%
    2009                    14.5%
    2008                   11.5%
    2007                   9.4%
    2006                   3.0%
    2005                    5.5%

    This fiscal year, for example, the City owes approximately $50 million in debt service; however, the Water Board is expected to pay an approximate $205 million in rent. In other words, water users will be overbilled $155 million. During his 2013 campaign, then-Public Advocate Bill de Blasio condemned the city’s practice of using water rates imposed on middle class homeowners and small businesses to divert money into the City’s general fund: “For decades, the water system only charged customers what it needed to cover its costs. But now, anyone who pays a water bill is sending more and more of their money into the city’s general budget.

    It’s wrong and it has to stop.” — Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, April 16, 2013 “I’m urging the Mayor to honor his commitment to eliminate these hidden taxes and not charge residents for a cost greater than what the system’s infrastructure requires,” Lancman said. Council Members Mark Weprin and Paul Vallone joined in penning the letter demanding an end to the inflated water tax. “We need the mayor to stop this back door tax once and for all,” Council Member Weprin stated. “Anyone who has lived in New York City for the past decade can tell you that water and sewer rates have risen dramatically,” said Council Member Vallone. “I’m proud to stand with my fellow Council Members in asking our Mayor to stop overcharging the Water Board for rent so that excessive billing doesn’t fall onto the backs of our City’s taxpayers.”

    Some of the community leaders in attendance at the press conference included Bob Harris, President of the West Cunningham Park Civic Association; Yolanda Delacruz-Gallagher, board member of the Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association; Jennifer Martin, Co-President of the Kew Gardens Hills Civic Association; Harbachan Singh, Vice President of the Queens Civic Congress; Rosa Chong, Board Member of the Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association; and Jackie Forrestal, Board Member of the Hillcrest Estates Civic Association. Homeowners voiced their outrage over the exorbitant increases in water rates.

    “It’s impossible for us to survive these increases,” said Ms. Delacruz-Gallagher. “The simple gift of sustenance is a right, one we need to survive. Years ago, you paid thirty to fifty dollars. Now, you have to watch every drop that comes from the faucet.” Harbachan Singh spoke on behalf of the Queens Civic Congress: “Rising water rates has been the cash cow of the Mayor for too long. These funds are being used to bridge budget gaps and fuel other projects unrelated to water service.

    Water is a precious commodity and a basic human right; this policy is totally wrong.” Residents stressed the everyday strains they faced because of water woes. Ms. Chong decried being unable to afford using basic appliances such as dishwashers and sprinklers, hand washing dishes and using rainwater collected in barrels to water her garden instead. “Every little bit helps when the cost is so high.” “Progressive government means fair and transparent taxes,” said Lancman, “and as the Mayor acknowledges, our water rate system has been neither for too long. He has all the authority he needs to change that, and I urge him to do so this year.”

  • 2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant on April 27th at Hofstra University

    2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant on April 27th at Hofstra University

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced March 13 that the 2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant will take place on April 27th at 2:30 p.m. at Hofstra University. The pageant comes to Nassau County after having been held in Suffolk County for many years.

    The New York Senior America Organization features 15 women contestants aged 60 years or older, who best exemplify the qualities of the modern dynamic senior. There will be an array of talent on display, including singers, dancers, and musicians. The pageant consists of four categories: a personal interview; a recitation of their philosophy of life; an evening gown presentation; and a talent performance.

    The judges will select the “Queen and her Court” and the winner will go on to Atlantic City in October to compete with queens from other states for the coveted National Crown and title of Ms. Senior America. Reserved seating for the 2014 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant is available for $25 per person. Group rates are available. To purchase tickets, please call Dolores Meglio at (631) 249- 0258. For more information please visit the website www.newyorksenioramerica.org.

  • Christine Persaud brings Bollywood to Queens

    Christine Persaud brings Bollywood to Queens

    NEW YORK (TIP): Christine Persaud, President of Christine Institute of Vocational Training, Inc. and Georgetown Adult Social Daycare Center, located on Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill in Queens, an accomplished businesswoman, is bringing together a host of Bollywood stars to entertain on the special occasion of Holi.

    The show named Bollywood- Live with the Stars- will be presented on March 14, 2014 from 8 P.M. at Resorts World Casino, located at 110.00 Rockaway Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11420 The galaxy of stars include Abha ( ZEE TV Soap Opera Star from Yahan Ghar Kheli), Arjune and Purvi (ZEE TV Soap Opera Stars from Pavitra Rishta), Radhika (ZEE TV Soap Opera Star from Chhoti Bahu), Anil Bheem and the Bheemer Band, Madhu Motie, Seeta Panday, Caribean Vibezz, Alana Man, Annushka, Apache Wahia, Shahara Dancers, Tina Basdeo, Deon Persaud, Christine Persaud and Tassa Group. For further information, please contact Christine Persaud at 917-592-8686 (Email: christinenyfl@aol.com)

  • Queens Borough Annual budget hearing held

    Queens Borough Annual budget hearing held

    QUEENS, NY (TIP): Queens Borough President Melinda Katz chaired the Queens Borough Board’s annual budget hearing on Thursday, February 20, at Queens Borough Hall. The hearing is an opportunity for local organizations to present their requests for City funding to the Borough Board.

    The Board is comprised Borough President Katz, the City Council members representing Queens and the chairs of the borough’s Community Boards. Representatives from nearly 180 community organizations presented their funding requests during the hearing, which lasted for about 11 hours. The district managers representing Queens’ 14 community boards also gave presentations on the budgetary needs of their communities.

    Everyone who testified at the hearing was able to supplement their remarks with written testimony. The Borough President will consider the input from the Borough Board members and all of the presentations made in order to issue a report of the borough’s budget priorities next month. The report will be referred to during budget negotiations leading up to the adoption of the City’s Fiscal Year 2015 budget, which must be adopted prior to July 1.

    “The Borough Board’s budget hearing allows us to get a great sense of what the top budgetary priorities should be for borough,” Katz said. “Also, being able to take in all this information will help me and the members of our City Council delegation speak with one voice during the upcoming budget talks, which I believe is important if Queens is to get is fair share of City funding.”

  • Urge NYC Schools Chancellor to Recognize Diwali as Official School Holiday

    Urge NYC Schools Chancellor to Recognize Diwali as Official School Holiday

    Crowley, Rangel, Meng, Meeks, Clarke and Maloney

    NEW YORK (TIP): Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, along with Reps. Charles B. Rangel, Grace Meng, Gregory W. Meeks, Yvette D. Clarke, and Carolyn B. Maloney sent a letter, February 19, to NYC Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña urging the Department of Education to include the festival of Diwali on the list of new public school holidays.

    “We appreciate your consideration of school holidays that reflect our diverse city and ensure that students aren’t forced to choose between attending school and observing important holidays with their families,” wrote the lawmakers in the letter. Diwali, which marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year, is a festival of great significance to millions of Indians and Indian Americans and is widely celebrated amongst the 3 million-plus Indian-American community, as well as others.

    Known as the festival of lights, Diwali is a time for thanksgiving and prayer for health, knowledge and prosperity. The festival is widely celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, as well as others. Crowley led his colleagues in creating the first-ever Congressional Diwali celebration in October 2013. The event brought together hundreds of celebrants – including members of Congress, prominent Indian leaders, and members of the Indian American community – to build a greater understanding of differing cultural backgrounds and increase understanding and tolerance.
    In 2011, Crowley introduced a resolution to recognize Diwali and the strong and growing partnership between the U.S. and India. The full text of the letter to Chancellor Fariña is below: February 19, 2014 Carmen Fariña Chancellor, New York City Department of Education Tweed Courthouse 52 Chambers Street New York, NY 10007 Dear Chancellor Fariña, We understand that you are considering the designation of Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and Lunar New Year as New York City public school holidays. As members of Congress representing constituents in New York City, we support a potential move to recognize these holidays and urge you to include the festival of Diwali on the list of new public school holidays.

    For nearly a decade, Diwali has been gaining increased recognition throughout the United States. In fact, this year the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans celebrated the first-ever Congressional Diwali, and the White House has recognized the festival under successive administrations. In New York City, Diwali is celebrated by countless residents, including Hindus, Jains and Sikhs. The majority of New York’s Indian-Americans, which include not only those of direct South Asian origin but also those of Indian-Caribbean heritage, consider Diwali amongst their most significant holidays.

    Further, New York City is home to several dozen temples and gurdwaras, some of which are among the largest in our nation. The numerous Diwali celebrations in the city, such as the popular South Street Seaport event, is a testament to the recognition and popularity of Diwali, attracting thousands from in and around the area. We appreciate your consideration of school holidays that reflect our diverse city and ensure that students aren’t forced to choose between attending school and observing important holidays with their families.

    This is all the more important since members of the communities that celebrate Diwali not only contribute in countless ways to our great city, but their children also compose a sizeable and rapidly growing portion of our schools’ students.We hope to see them recognized by the designation of Diwali as a public school holiday. Sincerely, Joseph Crowley Charles B. Rangel Grace Meng Gregory W. Meeks Yvette D. Clarke Carolyn B. Maloney

  • Queens Borough President Katz disapproves of tearing down of New York State Pavilion

    Queens Borough President Katz disapproves of tearing down of New York State Pavilion

    NEW YORK (TIP): Queens Borough President Melinda Katz declared on Thursday, February 6, that the New York State Pavilion in Flushing Meadows Corona Park should not be torn down. “The New York State Pavilion is an architectural marvel that was a major attraction at the 1964-65 World’s Fair, one of the most important events in our borough’s history,” Katz said.

    “Today this distinctive structure continues to be an awe-inspiring icon for both Queens residents and our many visitors. Given all that, I say we should do what it takes to make sure the Pavilion remains standing for future preservations to enjoy.” Katz made her declaration during a walking tour of the structure that was led by Parks Department officials and included Assembly member Margaret Markey, Assembly member Michael Simanowitz, City Council member Rory Lancman and representatives from the offices of Congressman Joseph Crowley, Congresswoman Grace Meng and City Council member Karen Koslowitz.

    Also taking part were community board representatives, members of the media and civic leaders, including members of People for the Pavilion, a group that has advocated for the Pavilion’s preservation. During the tour, the Borough President announced she was forming a task force made up of elected officials and community leaders and advocates who will meet regularly at Queens Borough Hall to formulate a plan for the Pavilion’s future.

    The City-owned Pavilion has fallen into extensive disrepair since the World’s Fair. Recently, various plans, which require different levels of funding, have been proposed for preserving the structure. The most elaborate and expensive plans would modernize the Pavilion so it can be turned into a high-concept, multiuse facility. Less elaborate plans call work to be done to stabilize the structure without converting it into a facility for public use.

    The Borough President said she hopes the task force will forge a consensus among all interested parties as to the best way forward for the Pavilion, before it is allowed to deteriorate too much further. “Input from the community should and will have a major impact on what the Pavilion’s future will be,” Katz said. Katz organized Thursday’s walking tour so she and her elected colleagues and other community leaders could get a better idea of the structure’s current condition. She also said she hoped the tour would stimulate some much needed discussion about the Pavilion’s fate.

  • Melinda Katz addresses the 31st Annual Legislative Forum of the Queens Interagency Council on Aging

    Melinda Katz addresses the 31st Annual Legislative Forum of the Queens Interagency Council on Aging

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz addressed the 31st Annual Legislative Forum of the Queens Interagency Council on Aging (QICA) on Friday, February 7.

    QICA is a boroughwide coalition of more than one hundred organizations and individuals who provide services to seniors. The event at Queens Borough Hall focused on furthering QICA’s efforts to address the transportation and affordable housing needs of senior citizens.

  • Queens Borough President Katz presents gifts to United War Veterans Council

    Queens Borough President Katz presents gifts to United War Veterans Council

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, during an event at Queens Borough Hall on Monday, February 10, presented United War Veterans Council (UWVC) executive director Patrick Gualtieri and other UWVC representatives with cards and gifts donated by her and her employees in the Borough President’s office.

    The UWVC will be distributing the donated items to veterans at the Saint Albans veterans hospital. UWVC collected the donations as part of its annual Valentine’s Day Caravan, which collects and delivers thousands of donated cards and gifts to military members, veterans and their families at veterans’ hospitals and military bases in New York City, Long Island, New Jersey and Bethesda, Maryland.

  • Community is saddened at the untimely demise of a Philanthropist: DR. SHAKIR MUKHI

    Community is saddened at the untimely demise of a Philanthropist: DR. SHAKIR MUKHI

    Dr.Shakir Mukhi President (AFMI) and Founding Member of Nargis Dutt Foundation who was popular among Indian Americans died after a brief illness in New York on Friday, February 7th, 2014. He was a philanthropist who was known in community as a man who helped the needy irrespective of his caste or creed. His Namaz E Janaza was held in Queens in NY on Friday and he was buried in Orlando, Florida on Saturday. Obituary references and tributes have poured in to our office from many organizations and individuals.

    Here are some. Dr.Shakir Mukhi, AFMI’s trustee and former President, Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilahi Wa Rajioon, was an important member of our organization who was always concerned with the plight of underprivileged masses in India. His contributions are many and he will sorely be missed by one and all. May Allah grant him maghfirah and give perseverance to his family,”said Dr. A.R.Nakadar (AFMI’s founding trustee). A philanthropist to the core Dr. Mukhi was an active participant in AFMI’s educational mission in addition to various other charitable and community activities.

    He served as the executive VP of Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation, VP of Indian National Overseas Congress, and board member of AAPI for Asian communities. He was a Human Rights Commissioner for Nassau County Long Island since 2001. A graduate of M.P. Shah Medical College, Jamnagar, he has been serving the Long Island and Queens communities for the past several years as a Family Physician. He completed his residency training from Catholic Medical Center Hospital in Family Medicine, Queens NY. He was popular among his patients for his compassion and kindness.

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    Dr.Shakir Mukhi at right with Ram Vilas Paswan during Dalit Conference 5th July 2008..

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    Dr. Mukhi (left) stands by Saleem Iqbal, President of HAB Bank, at a gathering at his home.

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    Dr.Shakir Mukhi honoring Dalit leader Ram Vilas Paswan during Dalit Conference 5th July 2008 Photos/ Mohammed Jaffer-Snapsindia

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    Dr. Mukhi honors Ambassador Prabhu Dayal at one of the events at his home

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    Dr. Mukhi (second from right) with Priya Dutt, Member Parliament and Patron of NDMF (6th from left), Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano (7th from right) and Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation members at NDMF Gala two years ago

  • Queens Borough President Melinda Katz

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz swore in the Board of Trustees for the Queens Council on The Arts (QCA) on Wednesday, February 5, during the board’s meeting at the Council’s offices in Astoria.

    The Council promotes art organizations throughout Queens and was founded by the Borough President’s mother, the late Jeanne Dale Katz, in 1966.

  • Congressman Crowley Honored for His Work on Behalf of Indian American Community

    Congressman Crowley Honored for His Work on Behalf of Indian American Community

    Jackson Heights Indian Merchants’ Association, Queens community members laud Crowley’s leadership, policy victories on Indian American, Sikh issues

    NEW YORK (TIP): Rep. Joe Crowley (DQueens, the Bronx), Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, was honored by the Jackson Heights Indian Merchants’ Association and broader Queens Indian American community for his efforts on behalf of Sikh Americans and the greater Indian American community, in Jackson Heights on Thursday, January 30.

    Crowley was recognized by the community leaders that included, among others, the JHIMA officials- Shiv Dass, Jaswinder Singh, Subhash Kapadia, Nitin Vora and Mohinder Verma-, and community leaders that included Ravi Batra, Pritam Singh Gilzian and Darshan Singh Bagga, among others, for his successful efforts to convince the federal government to begin collecting data on hate crimes committed against Sikh-Americans and Hindu-Americans; in the U.S. Congress in October 2013; and his ongoing work to end the presumptive ban on Sikhs serving in the U.S. military.

    3Crowley is flanked by Deepak Bhardwaj (JHIMA Board of Director) to his right, and Jaswinder Singh (Chairman, JHIMA) to his left. Others seen in the picture are Pritam Singh Gilzian, Former President of Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lobana and President of Richmond Hill Punjabi Merchants’ Association (extreme left) and Darshan Singh Bagga, Sikh community leader, with association with a number of organizations (extreme right)

    “I am humbled to be recognized by Shiv Dass and the Jackson Heights Indian Merchants Association, members of the Queens Sikh community, and the greater Indian-American community in Queens,” said Rep. Crowley, who serves as the cochair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    “The Indian-American community is an integral part of Queens and our city, contributing to our economic success and enriching our culture. I am proud to have fought for and won concrete victories on behalf of the community and I will continue to do so.” Nearly 100 community members and leaders from New York’s Sikh-American and the broader Indian-American community attended the event.

    4Crowley joins Jackson Heights Indian Merchants Association members and members of the Sikh
    community.

    Over the past two years, Crowley has been at the forefront of a major effort in Congress to convince the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to begin collecting data on hate crimes committed against Sikh- Americans and Hindu-Americans – introducing legislation and sending multiple letters to DOJ and FBI.

    In July 2013, then-FBI Director Robert Mueller announced that the bureau would begin to implement this program. Crowley is leading the call on the U.S. military to end its presumptive ban on Sikh articles of faith, including turbans and beard. He is spearheading a bipartisan letter requesting that the U.S. Armed Forces update their appearance regulations to allow Sikh Americans to serve while abiding by their articles of faith.

    In October 2013, Crowley led his colleagues in creating the first-ever Congressional Diwali celebration. The event brought together members of Congress, prominent Indian leaders, and members of the Indian-American community to build a greater understanding of differing cultural backgrounds and increase understanding and tolerance.

    5Council Member Daniel Dromm with JHIMA members and community members
    “I’m so pleased the FBI is going to begin tracking hate crimes against Sikhs and Hindus, because that is the first step toward preventing the crimes in the first place. But, there is much, much more we need to do. One of my top priorities is ensuring that Sikh Americans can serve in our nation’s military – we took some steps forward on this issue last week but there is more that must be done.

    I also think it is high time that India become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council – and I am going to be focusing my efforts on that,” added Crowley. On the occasion, a few community members were honored by Crowley for rendering useful services to the community.

    They included Jaswider Singh and Deepak Bhardwaj of Apna Bazar; Mahindra Patel and Harshit Patel of Patel Bros. ; Srinivas Ranga of New York Life; Daniel Thomas of Thomson Travels, and Neeta Bhasin of ASB Communications who brought Diwali to Times Square in 2013. Those who were recognized included Pritam Singh Gilzian and Harbaksh Singh Tahli, editor of Shaane- Panjab weekly Punjabi newspaper.

    Politicians present included State Senator Toby Stavisky, Council Member Daniel Dromm, and Queens Borough Deputy President Leroy Comrie. Mohinder Verma, who has been serving in the capacity of Secretary of the association for almost 35 years, the longest period any Indian has served an organization in a responsible position, and Harshit Chugh thanked the gathering and ensured all had a good fill before leaving.

  • TIME WARNER CABLE IN NEW YORK: 10,000 JOBS & GROWING

    TIME WARNER CABLE IN NEW YORK: 10,000 JOBS & GROWING

    NEW YORK (TIP): New York’s telecommunications marketplace is among the most competitive in the world. The FCC has determined nearly 68% of Time Warner Cable’s franchises are subject to “effective competition,” meaning consumers have real choice in selecting a video provider. And competition drives investment in new technology, improving important services, which all leads to the most valuable investment of all-new jobs for New York.

    Madman beats girlfriend and her daughter to death with hammer because he thought they were witches: officials

    Mohammad Jaffer
    NEW YORK (TIP): Estrella Castaneda, 56, and her daughter Lina, 25, were found dead in a home on 87th St. in East Elmhurst early Wednesday, January 29th. Carlos Amarillo, Estrella’s boyfriend, was charged with murder. Lina’s 4-year-old daughter was removed from the home. The girl was present during the attack, according to police. A Queens’s madman used a hammer to beat his girlfriend and her adult daughter to death Wednesday after becoming convinced they were witches who performed voodoo and cast spells on him, authorities said.

    “I killed them because they are witches,” Carlos Alberto Amarillo, 44, allegedly told cops after they nabbed him outside the East Elmhurst home. “I want the police to kill me.”Police who responded to the address after a 911 call from Amarillo saw him walking from the door to the street carrying a Bible, officials said. “I killed them,” he allegedly told cops. “I killed them.” Amarillo was held on two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

  • Queens Borough President Katz receives spiffing welcome from ICCD

    Queens Borough President Katz receives spiffing welcome from ICCD

    NEW YORK (TIP): Interfaith Council for Community Development hosted a welcome party for Melinda Katz, the new Queens Borough President. The event was held at Richie Rich Palace hotel at Richmond Hill on Thursday, January 16 evening. Speaking at the event, Mr. Jarnail Singh Gilzian said, “We are extremely happy having Melinda Katz as President of Queens Borough.

    She grew up in Queens and only someone who is from this background can understand and solve the woes of our community. Queens has the most diverse languages spoken than any other city and with that comes problems in many ways. We are positive under her Presidentship Melinda Katz will be able to address our problems and work with us in promoting a better life in Queens.”

    Katz, who attended the welcome meeting on her 15th day at the office, said she was thrilled to be part of such a stimulating environment. “We are the borough of Queens. There are over 160 languages spoken here which is the largest number compared to any other city. This is a cause for much dismay and curiosity for other countries and cities. We do it because we all belong to a common value. We come here to build a better life for ourselves and give our children a wonderful education and nourished future.”

    On being asked about her immediate plans for the borough, she said, “There is an excitement in the city. It’s a new mayor, new council members. We all are here to strive to provide the best for our city. Our goal is to provide the best education for our kids, secure their future and provide multi-lingual and multi-cultural senior care for our elders.” The ceremony was attended by members of the Interfaith Council for Community Development and other distinguished personalities of the Indian American community.

  • Personal Injury Lawyers Secure $8.8 Million Settlement For New York Pedestrian Accident Victim

    Personal Injury Lawyers Secure $8.8 Million Settlement For New York Pedestrian Accident Victim

    NEW YORK, NY (TIP) : In the case of Fata Krluc v. The City of New York, et. al (Supreme Court, Queens County, Index Number: 20275/11), New York injury lawyers Block O’Toole & Murphy, LLP have secured an Eight Million Eight Hundred Thousand ($8,800,000) Dollar settlement for a Queens woman who suffered a brain injury in an accident alleged to be caused, in part, by a stop sign that was partially covered by tree branches. The City of New York, a Defendant in the case, paid $7,500,000 toward the $8,800,000 result.

    The parties reached the settlement on January 7, 2014, two days before jury selection for the trial was scheduled to begin in Queens County, where the case was pending. According to the pleadings and deposition testimony of the parties, the accident occurred on June 3, 2011 at approximately 2:30pm, at the intersection of 103rd Avenue and 93rd Street in the Ozone Park neighborhood of Queens, New York. Plaintiff was a 51 year old woman, originally from Bosnia, who worked at a Manhattan hotel as a housekeeper and lived in a multi-family home with her two sons, two daughtersin- law and two grandsons. At the time of the accident, Plaintiff was walking along 103rd Avenue, on her way from her home to pick up her grandsons from their local elementary school.

    According to various documents, including Plaintiff’s Verified Complaint and the police accident report, a collision occurred within the intersection between a white van, approaching from 103rd Avenue, and a maroon mini-van, approaching from 93rd Street. While both vehicles faced stop signs at the intersection, discovery revealed that the white van did not stop or even slow down as it passed through its stop sign. This included the deposition testimony of the van driver himself, as well as multiple witness accounts and the conclusions reached by the investigating New York City police officers. The Plaintiff’s attorneys at Block O’Toole & Murphy, LLP commenced a lawsuit against the drivers and owners of the two vehicles, as well as The City of New York. Plaintiff’s claim against The City of New York involved, among other things, the aforementioned stop sign that was at least partially covered by the branches of an adjacent tree, as alleged in Plaintiff’s Complaint.

    Plaintiff claimed the reason the white van ran its stop sign was that the sign was not properly visible to its driver. There was much debate among the parties about whether the stop sign should have been observed by the white van driver. In this regard, it was argued by The City of New York that the stop was still visible, despite its partial obstruction by foliage, and there were other markings, such as the word “STOP” on the street that should have alerted the white van driver to its obligation to stop. According to the pleadings and medical records exchanged during discovery, Plaintiff suffered a forceful blow to her head and was rendered unconscious at the scene. She was rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where she was diagnosed with multiple facial and skull fractures, as well as hemorrhaging and edema in the right frontal, temporal and parietal lobes of her brain.

    Plaintiff underwent a brain surgery on the date of the accident, consisting of craniectomy and debridement of fracture fragments. Plaintiff also suffered multiple rib fractures, right clavicle and scapular fractures, multiple transverse process fractures in her cervical and thoracic spine and a right brachial plexus injury. Plaintiff underwent a long course of inpatient rehabilitation, after which she was discharged back to her home and began outpatient cognitive and physical therapy treatments. At the time of settlement, Plaintiff claimed to have suffered permanent brain damage characterized by cognitive limitations, depression and episodic confusion and short-term memory loss. Plaintiff was able to communicate without difficulty, walk without assistance and tend to her own needs with the assistance of her family members.

    The Plaintiff’s attorneys made claims for various future medical costs they argued would result from her injuries, including the need for a home health aide. Noted handling Partner Stephen J. Murphy, “We are very pleased that we were able to reach a settlement which ensures that our client will never have a problem paying for any related future medical treatment or accommodation.” Mr. Murphy is a noted trial attorney who was a successful homicide prosecutor for the Kings County District Attorney’s office before joining the firm, where he now handles significant injury cases. Partner David L. Scher also worked on the case for the firm, and further explained why The City of New York was such a big contributor to the settlement: “Through discovery efforts, we learned that The City’s Department of Parks & Recreation had actually been on notice of a problem with obstructed stop signs at the intersection about ten (10) months earlier via a 311 call from a concerned resident in the area. The Parks Department did respond to that call, but we believe the evidence we collected would have proven at trial that they negligently failed to address the tree that caused this accident, despite having a clear opportunity to have done so.”

  • Inauguration of Melinda Katz

    Inauguration of Melinda Katz

    Melinda Katz was sworn in as the 19th President of the Borough of Queens. The ceremony was held Thursday, January 9, in the LeFrak Concert Hall at Queens College. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio administered the oath of office to Melinda Katz during Katz’s inauguration as the 19th President of the Borough of Queens..


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    Melinda Katz made her way to become the President of Borough of Queens, one of the most diverse Boroughs in the country. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio administered her the oath of office. Seen holding the Bible is U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley

    Holding the Old Testament used for the swearing-in was U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley, the chairman of the Queens County Democratic Organization. The copy of the Old Testament they used had been given to Katz’s late father David (the founder of the Queens Symphony Orchestra) by Frank O’Connor, a former Queens County District Attorney.

  • The Forum at Borough Hall

    The Forum at Borough Hall

    Queens Borough President Helen Marshall (next to plaque) presided over dedication of “The Forum at Borough Hall,” Monday, December 9th. “The Forum at Borough Hall” is the new multifunctional, indoor meeting space that has been constructed in the rear courtyard of Borough Hall. It is the first addition to the building since it opened more than 70 years ago and will serve as a location for government hearings, community meetings, cultural performances and other public events. The ceremony included a performance by the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts choir and the unveiling of a plaque that will be erected inside The Forum. Joining Marshall at the ceremony were (from l. to r.) Edna Wells Handy, commissioner of the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS); David Resnick, deputy commissioner of the New York City Department of Design and Construction(DDC), and New York City Comptroller John Liu.

  • New York City’s ‘Holi Hai’ to launch in Dallas, Washington DC

    New York City’s ‘Holi Hai’ to launch in Dallas, Washington DC

    Pooja Premchandran DALLAS, TX(TIP): The upcoming Holi of 2014 will have the vibrant and highly popular event ‘Holi Hai’ from New York City, extend their festivities in Dallas, Texas andWashingtonD.C. Megha Kalia, Founder and Artistic Director of NYC Bhangra confirmed to The Indian Panorama of its planned ventures. Started by Kalia from her two bedroom apartment in Queens, today the event is the largest celebration of the festival of colors in New York City. As a non-ticketed event, NYC Holi also boasts of the largest number of non-Indian attendees. The journey has been a multitude of colors for her. “Blue, black, red, white! I have faced it all in my journey so far. But it is all totally worth the painstaking effort when I see the celebrants face light up with joy at the event every year.” As part of extending her venture, Megha Kalia has closed in on Dallas and WashingtonDC. With the popularity the event was gaining, it was a natural move for her to push beyond the boundaries and even look far west.


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    colors of Holi

    “I did extensive research and spoke to innumerable people regarding celebrations of Holi as well as promotion of Bhangra in the rest of the country. Only a few engaged and promoted Bhangra to its audience. The dance form of Bhangra is vibrant, fun and colourful, all of which are synonymous to Holi. And I wanted people from these cities to experience the same fun that New York has been having since the past 5 years during Holi, “says Kalia. Besides playing Holi the traditional way (throwing colour at each other), NYC Bhangra’s Holi celebrations also provide a platform to emerging artists (in dance and music) to exhibit their talent to residents of New York City. But the event isn’t fulfilled without the must-have dose of Bhangra. Says Kalia, “Since 2010, we have continued to engage our audiences into Bhangra which is in line with our mission. Naturally, at an environment like that of Holi, Bhangra just goes hand in hand.” Megha sincerely hopes for the same extent of support she received in New York to follow her to DC and Dallas.

    “In the last few year of the event in NYC, we have received inexpressible amount of support from our sponsors such as State Bank of India, Incredible India, Time Warner Cable, Sony TV, Zee TV, etc. We look for similar support and encouragement from DC and Dallas. In terms of our expansion, we sincerely hope to see these cities welcome Bhangra and celebrate Holi with much gusto and spirit as is a must for Holi,” says Kalia. NYC Bhangra is New York City’s group of Bhangra enthusiasts who are engaging people in the Bhangra joy and creating more awareness of the dance through dance showcases and performances. NYC Bhangra was established in 2007 to promote Indian dance forms in New York City. Sponsors can reach NYC Bhangra atinfo@nycbhangra.com or 212-372-8001. Watch this space for more information on the venue and dates of the event.