The Indian Panorama

Tag: TV Asia

  • The Indian Panorama at 18: A Chronicle of Perseverance and Triumph

    The Indian Panorama at 18: A Chronicle of Perseverance and Triumph

    Prof Saluja greeting Manmohan Singh at the White House reception for the Indian Prime Minister

    As The Indian Panorama marks its 18th year of publication, it is a moment of reflection and celebration. The journey of this periodical has been akin to that of a determined soldier, navigating through the initial hiccups with resilience and evolving into a formidable force in the media landscape. While acknowledging the achievements, it is crucial to recognize that this milestone is not the culmination but a checkpoint in the ongoing crusade for truth and journalistic excellence.

    The Genesis: Initial Hiccups and Challenges

    Eighteen years ago, The Indian Panorama embarked on its journalistic odyssey, fueled by the passion for truth and a commitment to providing a comprehensive view of Indian affairs. Like any nascent venture, the publication faced its share of initial hiccups. Limited resources, a competitive media environment, and the challenge of establishing credibility were formidable hurdles.

    The publication encountered skepticism and doubt, but it weathered the storm, recognizing that the path to success is often paved with challenges. The formative years were a testing ground for the resilience and determination that would come to define The Indian Panorama’s character.

    Vaisakhi at the Consulate organized by Prof. Saluja
    Jewels of India Award for Prof Saluja

    The Determined Soldier: Overcoming Adversities

    Much like a determined soldier pushing forward despite the odds, The Indian Panorama navigated through the intricacies of the media landscape. It adapted to changing technologies, evolving reader preferences, and the demands of a dynamic news cycle. The team behind the publication demonstrated a commitment to journalistic integrity, delving into stories with depth and presenting a nuanced perspective on the events shaping the nation.

    The early struggles became stepping stones, shaping the identity of The Indian Panorama. The publication began to carve its niche, distinguishing itself through insightful reporting, balanced analysis, and a commitment to presenting the truth, even when it was uncomfortable.

    With Amb. Manoja K. Mohapatra, VConsul General of India in Guatemala.
    Prof. Saluja speaking at the Bal Divas at the Consulate General of India in New York on December 26, 2022

    Capturing the Post: Milestones and Achievements

    As the years unfolded, The Indian Panorama captured significant milestones, much like a soldier conquering strategic posts. The publication gained recognition for its investigative journalism, incisive editorials, and coverage of issues often overlooked by mainstream media. It became a trusted source of information, earning the respect of readers and peers alike.

    The expansion into digital platforms and the embrace of multimedia storytelling further fortified The Indian Panorama’s presence. Social media became a battleground for disseminating accurate information, engaging with a wider audience, and challenging misinformation. The publication demonstrated an ability to adapt to the changing media landscape while staying true to its core values.

    Prof. Saluja interacts with S.M. Krishna, the then External Affairs Minister of India
    Prof. Saluja with Comptroller New York John Liu and the Sikh communityNew York John Liu 

    The ongoing crusade: More Posts to Conquer

    As The Indian Panorama stands at the threshold of its 18th year, it acknowledges the milestones achieved but remains cognizant that the journey is far from over. In the dynamic realm of journalism, there are always more posts to conquer, more stories to unearth, and more truths to bring to light.

    The evolving landscape of media presents new challenges and opportunities. The rise of digital journalism, the need for responsible reporting in the age of fake news, and the continuous quest for relevance in an ever-changing readership landscape are all frontiers that demand exploration.

    The commitment to truth, accuracy, and ethical journalism remains unwavering. The Indian Panorama understands that each milestone reached is not an endpoint but a checkpoint in the ongoing crusade for journalistic excellence. The publication looks forward to the future with optimism, ready to face new challenges head-on and to continue providing a panoramic view of the div

    Preity Zinta presented the FIA award to Prof. Saluja

    erse and dynamic landscape of India and the US, in particular, and the world, in general.

    As I reflect on the journey that brought The Indian Panorama to its present standing, I am compelled to acknowledge the integral role played by the pillars that upheld its foundation – the unwavering support of patrons, the crucial backing of advertisers, the invaluable contributions of readers and contributors, and the steadfast encouragement from friends and family. These collective forces have been instrumental in shaping the narrative and fortifying the publication’s commitment to its motto, “EVER TRUTHFUL.”

    Admirable Advertisers: Financial Backbone

    The unyielding journey of The Indian Panorama would not have been possible without the vital support of our advertisers. They provided more than just financial backing; they became the backbone of our operations. Their belief in the publication’s mission and the power of its reach fueled our ability to bring stories to light. The symbiotic relationship between The Indian Panorama and its advertisers has been crucial in sustaining the publication’s growth and influence.

    Presenting a copy of The Indian Panorama to Meera Shankar, India’s Ambassador to the US

    Devoted Readers: Strength in Numbers

    The strength of any publication lies in its readership, and The Indian Panorama has been fortunate to have a community of devoted readers. Their commitment to seeking truth, staying informed, and engaging with diverse perspectives has fueled the publication’s relevance. The readership’s unwavering support has been a driving force, inspiring the team to continually strive for excellence in journalism. The bond between The Indian Panorama and its readers is a testament to the publication’s impact on its audience.

    Receiving award from Ambassador Arun Kumar Singh and AIA officials

    Invaluable Contributors: Enriching the Narrative 

    A publication is only as strong as the material it presents, and The Indian Panorama owes a debt of gratitude to its contributors. Their diverse perspectives, insightful analyses, and compelling narratives have enriched the reading experience for our audience. Whether seasoned journalists, emerging writers, or subject matter experts, each contributor has played a pivotal role in shaping the depth and breadth of The Indian Panorama’s content.

    Prof Saluja with India’s tennis legend Vijay Amrithraj

    Steadfast Support: Friends and Family

    Behind every endeavor, there is a network of support that provides the emotional fortitude needed to weather challenges. In the case of The Indian Panorama, friends and family have been the bedrock of encouragement. Their unwavering belief in the never-say-die spirit, the courage to go forward, and the commitment to staying true to the motto “EVER TRUTHFUL” have been the driving force behind the publication’s resilience.

    Sustaining the Never-Say-Die Spirit

    The journey of The Indian Panorama has been a tapestry woven with the threads of collective support. As a leader and advocate for truth, I couldn’t have sustained the never-say-die spirit without the robust backing of these pillars. Adversities were met with determination, fueled by the belief that the pursuit of truth is a collective responsibility.

    In each challenge faced, be it financial hurdles, content creation demands, or the need for emotional resilience, the patrons, advertisers, readers, contributors, friends, and family stood steadfast. Their support became the driving force propelling The Indian Panorama forward.

    Prof. Saluja acted in the film ‘On Golden Years’, declared the best film at a New York Film Festival, with cast and crew

    Staying True to ‘EVER TRUTHFUL’

    Amid the storms and victories, The Indian Panorama has remained true to its motto, “EVER TRUTHFUL.” This commitment is not just a slogan but a guiding principle, a promise to our readers, and a testament to the collective effort that sustains the publication.

    The media club – Prof. Saluja with HR Shah of TV Asia, Dr Sudhir Parih of Desi Talk and ITV Gold, and Rajeev Bhambri of India Abroad
  • FIA and Indian American community held a commemorative celebration to mark the historic announcement of Garba’s Inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List

    FIA and Indian American community held a commemorative celebration to mark the historic announcement of Garba’s Inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List

    TIMES SQUARE, NY CITY (TIP): Times Square reverberated with the beats and music of ‘Garba’ as members of the Indian-American community performed the traditional Gujarati dance at the iconic New York City destination to celebrate its inclusion in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.
    FIA NY-NJ-CT-NE along with support from a host of community organizations and Consulate General of India NY, held a commemorative garba celebration at the ‘Crossroads of the world’, – Times Square. The celebration marked the recent inclusion of Garba as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

    Garba, considered to be among the oldest forms of group dance and longest dance festival spanning 9 nights (Navratri) is a very popular group folk dance form in key states of India including Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. It has gained sensational liking among the overseas Indian diaspora in countries like the UAE (Dubai), USA, UK, Australia, Canada and many others. This historic, prestigious and distinguished milestone Tag of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was announced during UNESCO’s 18th session in Kasane, Botswana on December 6th 2023. The leading organization for this initiative, the Federation of Indian Associations NY-NJ-CT-NE (FIA) extended an open invitation to the entire Indian American community to join in this momentous celebration at Times Square, NYC which was supported by Consulate General of India NY. Free transportation, complimentary refreshments and participation certificates shall be provided for all performing attendees. The event was a spectacular showcase of the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat as attendees donned traditional Garba attires. The vivid colors and intricate designs of their attire were a sight to behold, and one could feel the energy and pride emanating from them as they represented their culture on a global platform. The atmosphere was electric with excitement and anticipation, and it was clear that everyone was thoroughly enjoying themselves.

    In addition to the Federation of Indian Associations NY-NJ-CT-NE, the event was made possible through the support and collaboration of esteemed partner organizations, including the Consulate General of India, New York, GANA, BJANA, Siddhivinayak Temple USA, Times Group, Aaj Tak, The Indian Panorama, EBC Radio, The South Asian Times, AUM Dance Academy, Parikh WorldWide media, TV Asia, ITV gold, World BB TV, New India Abroad, The Indian Eye, Radio Zindagi, and Radio Dil.

  • An evening of transportation to the Himalayas Filmmaker Neha Lohia and Woman Spiritual leader Sadhvi ji way

    An evening of transportation to the Himalayas Filmmaker Neha Lohia and Woman Spiritual leader Sadhvi ji way

    Spiritual leader Sadhvi Ji giving a discourse to New York attendees.

    NEW YORK (TIP): Neha wants to promote the Eastern culture, women in spiritual leadership position and empower humanity by creating films, content and opportunities which explore deeper truths, bridge the gap, between east and west, body mind and soul.

    Woman spiritual leader Sadhvi Ji left her cushy life to help people find their paths to inner fulfilment when she found her own. It was truly a heart-warming and souls nourishing experience for the collective that was gathered this day to learn tools to unleash creativity and inner strength using eastern ways of the heart.

    New York’s incredible talent came together to support Neha. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, The Indian Consulate in New York, several dignitaries like Tirlok Malik the filmmaker, Prashant Goyal, founder of heritage India fashions, Shiv Khemka of tGELF, queens world film festival, chip away productions, apple productions and a devoted team including media professionals like Kai MKenna, art director Nabha, influencer Christine Mendes, screen writer Henry Negrete, producer Boby Lohat, chef Dhara shah, animator Coumba Seye, musician Indro and photographer Rob Klein. TV Asia, ITV, Parikh media, QPTV and so many press and media organisations too joined in full capacity. “Show me one spiritual scripture ever written by a woman” said Neha when she was asked why she is determined on promoting women in spiritual leadership and eastern culture through her films, and work. “When were we as women ever allowed to have a voice, a say and be given the chance to share the wisdom that is trusted only in us as women, as creators? Pain, suffering, each rejection and denial is a portal, for me these are truths of life, stories of resilience of human spirit and I wish to create through them. My work is connecting with people’s hearts as I am able to relate with their hurt, pain and suffering at that very base level of my own. It is time we recognise that everything is created by Shakti, by her power in this world and we need to give her the share of stage, validation and recognition that she deserves. This is my dharma path to say the stories of this Shakti in very many forms and showcase her through all my works.”- Neha Lohia.

    Sadhvi Ji and Neha are women from opposite parts of the world, different Janmabhoomi (birth land) and are now serving on different karma Bhoomi (work land) merging all boundaries and sharing the gifts of India and eastern spirituality as women leaders in their own ways and work. There will be many more things these 2 women are determined to create and offer the world together and independently in the days to come. The event was a packed house and attended by Indian and American dignitaries, actors, doctors, media professionals, authors, business tycoons of NYC. The guests were deeply moved and unanimously encouraged Neha. They mentioned this work is needed now more than ever and that they are in complete support of her vision.

    Designer Prashant Goyal of Heritage India Fashions NY, Producer Tirlok Malik of NRI TV and Film, Apple productions, spiritual leader Sadhvi ji, Filmmaker and Director Neha Lohia.

    To get more acquainted with Sadhvi Ji: www.sadhviji.org
    To know more about Neha and her work: www.nehalohia.com

  • FIA’s ‘Dance Pe Chance’ Entices the Audience

    FIA’s ‘Dance Pe Chance’ Entices the Audience

    TRENTON, NJ (TIP): Over 500 children from 22 community dance academies spread across Four states enthralled a 1000-plus crowd with their mesmerizing performances as they performed to showcase their talent, discipline, technique, and costumes in FIAs oldest cultural competition, its 39th annual edition on Saturday, Feb 18th at Patriots War Memorial Theatre, Trenton, NJ. Ages 6 through 60+ years took to the state-of-the-art stage, which had dazzling professional-grade production, including led spot lighting, sound, and 50 feet LED backdrop. Performing participants displayed a variety of cultures and traditions, including languages, in the performances consisting of a fusion of classical, folk, and contemporary dance compilations.
    The participating groups showcased 22 captivating variety performances. Four categories comprised minors, juniors, seniors, and adults competed within their age groups. The event was anchored by Miss India PA – Charmy Shah, Veteran RJ, and popular anchor and host Mamta Narula.
    This year’s judging panel comprised renowned Bollywood Choreographer Rohan Virdi, celebrated Kuchipudi Exponent and Guru Swathi Atluri, and the locally popular choreographer Mitali Das.
    Consul General of India- New York Shri Randhir Jaiswal was the Chief Guest of the program. Also in attendance were Jaipur Foot Chairman Prem Bhandari, Former Congressman of New Jersey Michael Pappas, Padma Awardee and FIA Advisor Dr. H R Shah, and veteran community leader Peter Kothari among other distinguished guests.
    Mr. Randhir Jaiswal expressed his joy to witness and be a part of the event and praised the performances and performers for their sheer hard work to perform and compete with precision, coordination, and high energy. He wished that the event would continue to grow with each passing year for the coming decades and provide a platform over 19000 children have utilized in the past 39 years.
    Hon. Michael Pappas expressed his happiness to be a part of the event and was impressed to witness FIA organizing a youth-oriented event on such a large scale and at a venue known to hold historical events.
    Mr. Prem Bhandari expressed his happiness and joy in witnessing the participation of diverse communities and thanked FIA for providing the kids with such an incredible platform.
    FIA President Mr. Kenny Desai praised all the judges, sponsors, and members of the FIA executive team and the DPC team for their arduous efforts in putting together this difficult event.
    FIA Chairman Mr. Ankur Vaidya thanked the sponsors, the FIA Executive team, and the DPC led by FIA Vice President Saurin Parikh, Nishi Dhami, and Priti Patel. He summarized the joy of seeing over 500 children compete in sportsmanship, for which he expressed gratitude to the parents, the choreographers, and all the participants.
    FIA Vice President & Dance Pe Chance Chair Mr. Saurin Parikh congratulated all sponsors, media partners, and the Indian Consul General in New York for their continued support.
    Also in attendance were Past President & Board of Trustee Mr. Srujal Parikh, FIA Vice President Mr. Dr. Avinash Gupta, FIA Gen. Secretary Nishi Dhami, FIA FIA Treasurer Priti Patel FIA Jt. Treasurer Mr. Mahesh Dubal, FIA Jt Sec Mr. Haresh Shan FIA Past President, Mr. Alok Kumar, and other notable community members. Mementos, trophies, and prizes totaling $20,000.00 were distributed during the event.
    Dance pe Chance, for nearly four decades, has seen the participation of over 19000 thousand children. The competition aims to inspire creativity and foster teamwork and competitiveness among upcoming generations.
    Meals, certificates, complimentary rehearsal, and a complimentary ticket were for all participants, their managers, and choreographers courtesy of FIA and its sponsors. FIA’s vision through such grass root initiatives is to connect the next generation of Americans of Indian origin with our culture and the native motherland.
    FIA expressed gratitude to its sponsors River Comics, Parikh Worldwide Media, TV Asia, Bansal Foundation, Arista Care, Mehta Foundation, and Media Partners ITV Gold, TV Asia, South Asian Times, Radio Zindagi, and Indian Panorama, and The Indian Eye.

  • A Fundraising musical concert for Sai Baba Temple and Cultural Center

    NORTH BRUNSWICK (TIP): Sai Pariwar, Inc. organized fundraising musical concert on Sunday,  May 8, 2022, attended by more than 300; County Commissioner Shanti Narra & State utility commissioner Upendra Chivukula attended; New Sai Temple construction to begin soon in North Brunswick, New Jersey:

    Sai Pariwar, Inc. & Sai Mandir in North Brunswick, New Jersey, a 501 (c) (3), non-profit organization which was established 22 years ago, organized a fundraising event on Sunday, May 8, 2022, at Balaji Temple Auditorium in Bridgewater, New Jersey.  The fundraising event was attended by more than 300 people for a melodious Bollywood musical extravaganza with local talented group of singers and musicians who performed for more than four hours of musical melodies from old to Golden era to newer songs with some talented young and veteran singers from the local area.  The highlight of the musical concert was live music from young talented artists with their melodious voices of some beautiful devotional, romantic and peppy songs.  More than 20 singers and musicians performed on the stage with some solo, duets and choruses which were applauded by many , and many performances received standing ovations. The Middlesex County Commissioner and former Councilwoman of North Brunswick Shanti Narra, former Assemblyman of New Jersey State and current New Jersey State Utility Commissioner Upendra Chivukula, Chairman of MANA TV Sridhar Chillara, Chairman of Indus TV Vijay Garg and many prominent individuals from the Indian American community attended the event to extend their support in this noble cause.   Mr. Chivukula and Ms. Narra both urged everyone to support and come forward to contribute toward this wonderful cause. Talented Madhavi Bathula served as the host for this concert and did an amazing job to keep the audience engaged with her unique style.

    The Sai Mandir, North Brunswick (Sai Pariwar), have acquired land in Central New Jersey area in North Brunswick Township, on Route 130, next to Shoprite Complex,  to build Baba Temple and Cultural Center, that will be the spiritual abode of not only Sri Shirdi Saibaba, but other Hindu Deities.  Currently, the temple management is working with the township and architects to get construction permits approved which will be completed in the near future.   The current temple in North Brunswick is in the warehouse areas and the property is very old with logistical challenges of parking and limited access to special needs and handicapped devotees.  The new temple will allow the devotees an opportunity to have facility to worship at a location which is safer with ample parking, basic needs and equipped with technologies required in the 21st century.

    The goal of Sai Pariwar is to raise 3 million dollars to complete the construction of new temple in the upcoming years.   The Sai Pariwar Board of Trustees and committee are requesting all devotees to contribute generously and also reach out to their friends, families and other acquaintances for their generous support, so they can start meeting financial goals of construction and other work for the new temple.  The new temple will bring Indian American communities and devotees together, so that our future generations will have a place to pray at Baba’s feet and to carry on our traditions, culture, values and heritage.  The temple management is sincerely urging everyone for extending their generous contributions and support in this project while offering them the chance to reach our affluent and growing Indian community in Central Jersey area.  Your generous donations/contributions will ensure temple management can meet the financial needs for the construction of a new temple in highly populated Indian Americans in Central Jersey area.

    The major media supporters for this fundraising event were Indus TV, MANA TV/TV 5, GNN, ITV Gold, Parikh Worldwide media, TV Asia, Akila News, Radio Dil, Radio Zindagi, Divyabhaskar.com, masalajunction.com, Gujarat Darpan, Gujarat Samachar and Hi India.   The contributions for the new temple construction can be given at www.saipariwar.org/donations.  For further information about the new temple construction, donations or sponsorships for the future events, please feel free to contact Surendra Katthula aka Guruji at 732-306-9365 or Anil Bhatt at 732-727-2757 or visit Sai Pariwar website at www.saipariwar.org.

    (Based on a press release issued by Dr. Tushar Patel and Surendra Katthul )

  • AIA Celebrates Diwali on a luxury boat

    AIA Celebrates Diwali on a luxury boat

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Undaunted by the COVID-19, AIA NY celebrated on Sunday October 4th 2020, the 33rd Deepavli festival event at Hudson river in front of South Street Seaport, NYC on a luxury boat with AIA sponsors, media partners and AIA executive members.

    Due to Coronavirus (COVID 19) there were very limited number of invited guests for this event. For the last 32 years, Association of Indians in America (AIA), New York chapter has organized Deepavali festival with sparkling fireworks, classical fusion performances, fashion show, vegan expo, fun-filled children’s activities and booths with a variety of fine cuisine, handicrafts and gift items along with rich and varied works of contemporary Indian artists at South Street Seaport.

    According to Harish Thakkar, President of AIA- NY chapter, Deepavali festival is one of the landmark events of AIA-NY chapter, enjoyed by over 50,000 New Yorkers every year since 1987. Considered by far the largest attraction for Indian Americans from all over the tri-state, Deepavali festival celebrates the tradition of a faraway land in a new world. This celebration has itself become a tradition that unites New York in a world of myths and colors.

    AIA is a grass-roots national organization of Asian-immigrants in the U.S with chapters and membership spread across the nation. It was founded on August 20th, 1967. The New York Chapter was established in 1968 and is well known for its social, cultural and educational activities. AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common Indian heritage and American commitment.

    AIA is thankful to its supporters like CheapOair and Qatar Airways, McDonald’s, New York Life, ICICI Bank, all media partners, Sony Entertainment, ITV Gold, TV Asia, Jus Punjabi, South Asian Times, Desi Talk, Indian Panorama, Indian Express and Hum Hindustani “We are grateful to all our sponsors who made this festival a big success for many years” AIA president Harish Thakkar said.

  • TV Asia Chairman Padma Shri H R Shah awarded honorary doctorate by Desh Bhagat University in Punjab, India

    TV Asia Chairman Padma Shri H R Shah awarded honorary doctorate by Desh Bhagat University in Punjab, India

    EDISON, NJ(TIP): Padma Shri H R Shah, chairman and CEO of leading South Asian American channel TV Asia, has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Desh Bhagat University  in Punjab, India on Feb 14.

    Mr Shah was recognized for his services as an Indian American entrepreneur, a turnaround specialist, philanthropist and an endearing community leader. He was the chief guest at the university’s annual event, along with Pawan Kumar Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim, who also received an honorary doctorate and was the keynote speaker.

    Dressed in ceremonial robes, Mr Shah accepted the honorary degree from Chancellor Dr Zora Singh, Pro Chancellor Tajinder Kaur and Vice Chancellor Dr Virinder Singh. The award was presented by Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling.

    In receiving the honorary doctorate, Mr Shah was cited for his selfless services for the cause of humanity. “It is your multi-faceted personality, exceptional vison, deep commitment toward culture, literature, political philosophy and educational activities that are an inspiration to the young generation,” the university said.

    Among others who also received the honorary doctorate at the event, included Bharat Ratna and former President of India Pranab Mukherjee (In absentia); Dr Huzaifa Khorakiwala, CEO of Wockhardt Foundation; V R Shankara, president and general counsel of Hindalco Industries; conservationist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal; actress Priti Sapru; Lov Verma, former health minister; and Lt Gen.  Shokin Chauhan. The Chancellor’s Distinguished Leadership Award were given to: R S Basnet, principal secretary of Assam; Shrabani Patnaik; Mata Jarnail Kaur; Dr Vikas Jindal; Dr Naresh Mittal of Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College; Dr S P Singh, chairman of Apex Group, Dubai; Prof R P Kaushik and Binay Kumar.

    As chairman & CEO of TV Asia Group, Mr Shah heads a veritable powerhouse of several business verticals spanning the media and entertainment landscape in North America, with presence in the television, OTT, IPTV, radio, print, digital, ecommerce and events marketplace.

    Mr Shah is the first NRI to own and operate a 24/7 TV station, TV Asia, launched in 1993 by legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. He is credited with pioneering Indian television and entertainment in the Western hemisphere. Using mass media as his tool of influence and with 38 news bureaus in North America currently, his vision is to expand to 60 news bureaus across the world. This, he believes, will serve his mission to preserve, support and promote Indian heritage for present and future generations of the Indian Diaspora settled across the globe, making TV Asia the “voice and mirror of the community.” TV Asia has long been known as the Indian community’s “Home Away from Home.” The channel works closely with Indian Consulates in the US in their outreach programs for the Indian American community.

    For over 35 years, Mr Shah has generously given his time, energy and resources as a pillar of the Indian American community, always supporting various social work, cultural, educational and related activities in the US and India. He has been a major supporter and has given strong backing to many worthy causes.

    He is the chairman and trustee of Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan USA, the world famous institute of Indian culture, literature, education, music and the arts. The Bhawan has dedicated an auditorium, “Romanti Auditorium,” in memory of his late daughter.

    In 2017, Mr Shah received the Padma Shri, one of Indian government’s highest civilian awards.

    He also received the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2005. The award is bestowed only on those who display significant contributions to their own communities and to the United States at large. The US House of Representatives and the Senate both unanimously passed resolutions sanctioning the Ellis Island Medals of Honor. Each honoree is listed in the Congressional Record.

    Additionally, Mr Shah is the recipient of numerous community and business awards in the US as well as India.

    During the 4-hour long convocation at Desh Bhagat University, around 1,200 students received degrees, diplomas and medals in various courses, including, Agriculture Sciences, Animation, Applied Sciences, Art & Craft and Fashion Technology, Ayurveda, Commerce, Computer Sciences, Education, Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism, Hotel Management, Languages, Management, Media, Nursing, Performing Arts, Physical Education and Social Sciences. The university offers more than 150 graduate and undergraduate courses and has an enrollment of over 8,000 students.

    In his acceptance speech, Mr Shah extended his sincere appreciation for Chancellor Dr Zora Singh and his staff and the meaningful work the university was pursuing. “I commend Dr Zora Singh for his vision and leadership in steering the university with new ideas while being socially responsible and giving the students a great educational platform,” he noted.

    Mr Shah touched upon how India’s economic development and transformation was intrinsically linked to education, skilling, entrepreneurship, research and innovation. “I am very happy to read the vision of the university which is in line with the same,” he said.

    He underlined the pivotal role educational institutions played in imparting socially responsible perspective to the students.

    “I appreciate the role of the University and its faculty for imparting the ‘Education for Life’ and not education for living only,” he said to a thundering applause.

    He noted the graduating students will always remain “stars” with their contributions to their families, society and the nation. He also underscored the importance of families and parents who have always sacrificed for their children’s education.

    In a heart-to-heart with the graduating students, Mr Shah said that while convocation signified the culmination of the phase of formal education, it also symbolized the beginning of a new journey. “Today’s ceremony is also called ‘Commencement’ and I take it as a Commencement of lifelong learning,” he concluded.

    On the sidelines of the convocation, Mr Shah discussed with Chief Minister Chamling about the need to promote Sikkim tourism to the Indian Diaspora in the US as well as across the world. Mr Shah also spoke with Dr. Jagannath Patnaik, Vice Chancellor of ICFAI University, Sikkim, about collaborating with American universities for exchange of programs, research and faculty development.

    In his meeting with Desh Bhagat University Chancellor  Dr Zora Singh, Mr Shah discussed how the university should look into transfer of courses and credits for students from US educational institutions.

    About Desh Bhagat University.

    Desh Bhagat University (DBU) located at Amloh, Punjab has been established under Punjab Governments’ Desh Bhagat University Act, 2012. DBU has  its four campuses in India –  at Amloh, Shri Muktsar Sahib, Moga and Chandigarh and an international campus  in Kenya.

    Desh Bhagat University, Amloh came into existence  under the guidance of Sardar  Lal Singh, a freedom fighter.

    The university offers more than 350 courses in almost 50 various streams at undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate and doctorate level. It is affiliated with UGC, AIU, NCTE, PCI, COA, and BCI.

    As for ranking, it stands 2nd  amongst all State Private Universities of Punjab.

  • Health Minister J P Nadda hosted at a community reception at TV Asia in NJ

    Health Minister J P Nadda hosted at a community reception at TV Asia in NJ

    EDISON, NJ (TIP): J P Nadda, India’s Health and Welfare minister, was hosted at a community reception at the TV Asia auditorium in Edison, NJ, on Sept. 24, by the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), TV Asia and the India American community.

    Nadda was welcomed at the community interaction by H R Shah, TV Asia chairman and CEO; Krishna Reddy Anugula, OFBJP president; Jayesh Patel, past-president of OFBJP and Dr Sanjay Gupta, president of American Pain Association.

    Himachal-born Nadda, who was inducted as a minister in 2014 and is also a lawmaker from Rajya Sabha, is currently spearheading Narendra Modi government’s flagship Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission.

    During the interaction with members of the community, Nadda spoke fluently in English and Hindi, peppering his speech with easy-to-understand statistics.

    J P Nadda speaking at a community reception at the TV Asia auditorium in Edison, NJ. Others in the photo, from left, are, H R Shah, and Krishna Reddy Anugula

    Nadda thanked the Indian American community for their diligent work in enhancing India’s image in the US. While the Modi government, he said, was specially committed to uplifting the marginalized in India, there had been a gradual transformation in the political culture in the country. “Since the Modi government took over, we have seen a shift from political paralysis to political transparency,” he said to a thunderous applause from the audience.

    He said it was imperative that the world saw India as a country with the inherent strengths of “Democracy, Demographics and Demand.”

    “The stock market does not always necessarily indicate the health and wealth of a country,” he noted. “The real indicators are how the poor live and what the government is doing to uplift them into prosperity.”

    Nadda laid down his government’s achievements, including the many schemes that have been launched to expedite participation in the banking, social security, insurance and healthcare sectors in the country.

    A section of the audience.
    Photos /Gunjesh Desai

    Explaining the newly-launched “revolutionary” Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission by the Modi government, Nadda said the new scheme will bring a paradigm shift in the country’s health sector. Under the new scheme, health insurance up to Rs 500,000 for every poor family in the country will be totally cashless and no registration will be required. “The poor people will not have to pay money for hospitalization,” he said during his speech.

    A “golden card” will ensure their cashless treatment, he noted. In case a person does not have a card, he or she will be treated in any one of the 13,000 hospitals, which are part of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, after taking the person’s thumb impression, Nadda said.

    “In short, Ayushman Bharat will bring mega health reform in the country as it will cover 10.74 crore families across the country,” Nadda said, adding it was “a unique scheme which will eventually cover all poor people of the country.”

    Asserting that the world was keenly watching the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Nadda said, “It is a historic moment as a big leap in the health sector.”

    Ayushman Bharat rests on the twin pillars of Health and Wellness Centers for provision of comprehensive primary healthcare services and the Prime Minister’s National Health Protection Mission for secondary and tertiary care to 100 million families.

    Nadda said India firmly believed in the objective of attainment of the highest possible level of health, a state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

    “Moving toward this objective, we have adopted the National Health Policy 2017 with the aim to provide affordable healthcare for all,” he asserted during his speech.

    He said that under the BJP government, 98 new government medical colleges have been built just in the last four years. The central government pays Rs 250 crore to each medical college in the country.

    Nada also pointed out that the Health Ministry had started a unique initiative called AMRIT Deendayal, an acronym for Affordable Medicines; Reliable Implants for Treatment – Centers that provide medicines for cancer; cardiovascular diseases and cardiac implants at significantly reduced prices.

    The government had also opened Jan Aushadhi (peoples’ medicines) stores to make available quality affordable essential medicines to people in need, he said.

    “India has always supported regional and global public health issues whether it be advocacy, technical collaboration, research and development, partnerships or improving the accessibility and affordability of health services and high quality essential medical products,” Nadda added.

    While welcoming Nadda, TV Asia’s H R Shah said TV Asia was built on the premise of helping the community and it was always there to assist in way possible. He called on Indian Americans to help the motherland and ensure the Modi government was elected for another 5 years, “for 5 years were not enough for any government to fully implement or produce results.

    OFBJP’s Krishna Reddy said it was imperative for every Indian American to work to re-elect the Modi government if India had any chance to become a global leader. He also mentioned that NRI voting may soon become a reality.

    Dr Jayesh Patel of OFBJP thanked all 21 chapters of OFBJP in ensuring NRIs and other countries were plugged into India’s progress.

    Toward the end of the event, a plaque commemorating Kumb Mela and the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, scheduled in Varanasi in January 2019, was presented by the guests to Minister Nadda.

    More than 300 guests, including several prominent members of the Indian American community, attended the event.

    After the event, Nadda was interviewed in a special segment to be aired subsequently on TV Asia across the US.

     

     

     

  • Emmy-Nominated filmmaker Tirlok Malik’s new film “On Golden Years” to Premiere on TV Asia

    Emmy-Nominated filmmaker Tirlok Malik’s new film “On Golden Years” to Premiere on TV Asia

     NEW YORK(TIP): The television premiere of Tirlok Malik’s new film On Golden Yearswill be shown on TV Asia on June 1st, 2018 at 8pm and June 3rd, 2018 at 1pm.

    Malik who is an Indian American and a New Yorker has made many films starting from Lonely In America, Love, Lust & Marriage, Khushiyaan, On Golden Years and many more. They all deal with the effects of migration in America.

    As an immigrant, when we come in the search of American Dream, at times we find ourselves we are “Lonely In America.” After achieving and living the American Dream, we also realize if we want real “Khushiyaan” (meaning: happiness), we need to make time to visit our aging parents and family in India.

    Now, in “On Golden Years” (the time to retire), some of us have conflicts such as deciding whether to retire in India vs America, contentedness vs regrets, etc. We need to come to terms with life as an immigrant: the retirement of the American Dream.  This romantic comedy teaches us to live every day like Valentine’s Day.

    The film On Golden Years is written and directed by New York Emmy nominated filmmaker Tirlok Malik

    The film On Golden Years is written and directed by New York Emmy nominated filmmaker Tirlok Malik. The idea of the story is inspired from the book Seeking Rootsby Iggy. Iggy Ignatius is also the codirector/producer of the film. The film stars Ranjit Chowdhry, Jyoti Singh, Reeves Lehmann, Shetal Shah, Noor Naghmi, Tirlok Malik, Shruti Tewari, Farokh Daruwala, Indu Gajwani, Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja, Lovllien Kaurr, Sandeep Suri, Iggy Igantius, Kamlesh Gupta and many more. The film has been shot at the Indian retirement community Shantiniketan in Florida. Other credits of the film are Director of Photography Christo Bakalov B.A.C., Music by Peter Lobo, Art Direction by Sunita Babber, Editing by Tom Knight and others.  Malik has given chances to many new talents in front or behind the camera.

    The Indian Panorama Editor Prof. Indrajit S Saluja who plays a role in the movie, is seen with the maker of the film Tirlok Malik (extreme left), actor Lovllien Kaurr and the Director of Photography Christo Bakalov (on the right)

    Apple Productions has also worked with some of the biggest names in cinema including Sanjay Dutt, Rajnikanth, Surya, Manisha Koirala, Mithun Chakravarti, Raveena Tandon, Anupam Kher, Mammootty, Tananna, Kamal Hassan, Sunny Deol, and Kangana Ranaut. Malik has won many awards, including the New York Citizens’ Award from the New York Mayor’s office, and his work is acclaimed worldwide.

    Malik and the cast of On Golden Yearsare very happy to have this premiere on TV Asia. TV Asia is the first cable television channel developed for the International South Asian community and celebrating their 25th anniversary.  CEO of TV Asia Padma Shri H R Shah congratulates Tirlok Malik for all the movies he has made about being an immigrant in America.

    As Tirlok Malik says, “Migration can bring many complex feelings, sometimes watching cinematic stories can show us the way”.