The Cerritos community warmly welcomed Dr. K J Srinivasa, the first Consul General of India in Los Angeles, during a celebratory event on October 19, just before Diwali.
CERRITOS, CA – The Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts was filled to capacity on October 19 as the local community gathered to welcome Dr. K J Srinivasa, the inaugural Consul General of the newly established Consulate of India in Los Angeles. He was accompanied by Consul Kulwant Singh and Vice Consul Priyanka Tyagi for the momentous occasion.
The event was organized by the United Indian Associations of Southern California (UIASC) with support from various organizations across the greater Los Angeles area. Despite being held just a day before Diwali, the celebration attracted attendees from near and far.
The evening commenced with a traditional Ganesh Vandana, followed by vibrant performances of music and dance by local talent. Dr. Srinivasa inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp and presiding over the national anthems of both the United States and India. Ashok (Pat) Patnaik welcomed guests and introduced the evening’s speakers.
Several community leaders took to the stage to share their thoughts. Anju Garg reflected on the Consulate’s journey from “vision to manifestation,” while Sudip Gorakshekar emphasized the importance of sustaining successful Indo-U.S. relations. Mallik Banda welcomed Dr. Srinivasa, marking a new chapter for the Indian diplomatic presence in Los Angeles. Ashok Madan spoke about the community’s long-standing desire for a consulate in the region, and Venkat Peddi and Kanak Singh Zala discussed the new opportunities the Consulate could bring.
Dr. Sukrit Mukerjee, UIASC Vice President and Convener, provided an overview of the organization’s history and its vision for future collaboration with the Indian Consulate. Business leader Dr. Kali Pradip Chaudhuri underscored the importance of patriotic unity, encouraging all Indians to unite in support of their homeland. UIASC President Kewal Kanda formally introduced Dr. Srinivasa, highlighting his previous role as Deputy Consul General in San Francisco.
In his address, Dr. Srinivasa commended the Indian diaspora for their significant role in making the Los Angeles Consulate a reality. He extended his wishes for a joyful Diwali and expressed his enthusiasm for reconnecting with community leaders he had previously engaged with during Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Among his key initiatives, he discussed plans for a non-stop flight connecting Los Angeles with major Indian cities, the future of cricket in the Olympics, and opportunities to enhance bilateral business and collaboration. He also announced that the Consulate is expected to be fully operational in the downtown Los Angeles AON building by December.
The evening concluded with a meet-and-greet, allowing consulate officials to warmly interact with attendees and pose for photographs. Guests then enjoyed a festive dinner prepared by Artesia’s Ashoka the Great.
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