Queens Borough in New York City is known as “The World’s Borough” for a reason: what happens on Roosevelt Avenue has ripple effects near and far.

In this vibrant borough there is a street called Roosevelt Avenue that cuts a cross-section through some of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods on Earth. Spanish, Bengali, Punjabi, Mixtec, Seke, and Kuranko are among the hundreds of languages spoken here. Nepalese dumplings and Korean noodles, Mexican tortas and Colombian empanadas, Thai curries and spicy South Indian vindaloos are just some of the many food choices.

Passing from one block to the next—through neighborhoods including Elmhurst, Corona, and Jackson Heights—can feel like crossing continents. Plazas and parks are crowded with vendors selling tamales, atole, and large-kernel corn. Tibetan Buddhists, fluent in the Indigenous languages of the Himalayas, walk to worship in their red-and-orange robes. Bangladeshi curbside markets teem with overflowing crates of ginger, garlic and humongous jackfruits, picked out by people wearing saris and shalwar kameez.

Growing up in New York, my own family would come to Queens to watch World Cup matches in South American cafés, just as our abuelos would visit their trusted Argentine butcher for fresh cuts of meat, and our Bukharan Jewish neighbors would come to pray, and our Indian family friends would come shopping for amulets and syrup-drizzled sweets for celebrations, all within this same 10-square-mile stretch of city.

Roosevelt Avenue is a pulsing artery of commerce and life. The road itself is chaotic, dark, and loud. You know you’re on Roosevelt because the elevated 7 train runs overhead, the tracks draping it in slitted shadows, and when the 7 train thunders past, for a moment, the frenzied thoroughfare is consumed: older women look up from their pushcarts; chatting friends fall silent mid-speak; and children cover their ears.

Above the storefronts, at the level of the train, are smaller brick offices with signs that reveal the more pressing needs of such a migrant-rich community: “Sherpa Employment Agency,” “Construction Safety Training,” “Irma Travel: Send Money and Shipments to Lima and Provinces.” Taped to the metal pilings and lampposts are hand-written listings with tear-off phone numbers, mainly in Spanish, advertising “rooms for rent,” “employment needed,” and “help wanted.”

Road signs welcome drivers entering Queens to “The World’s Borough.” But there is another phrase that might be more apt: “Queens, Center of the World.” That’s because what happens on these streets has ripple effects near and far, sometimes as far as on the other side of the globe—and what happens on the other side of the globe also certainly influences who ends up here. Perhaps at no other point has this been more urgently felt than during the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the spring of 2020, the virus ravaged this part of the city. Most people who live here are essential workers who cannot work from home—restaurant cooks, delivery workers, cab drivers, construction builders—and many live in overcrowded quarters, so the disease spread precipitously. Elmhurst Hospital, which serves this community, was declared the “epicenter of the epicenter” for the initial outbreak in the U.S.

In New York, such a rapid and large-scale loss of life meant that the city’s engine sputtered to an even more devastating halt; in other places, like Mexico and Ecuador, Bangladesh and Nepal, it meant that many families could no longer rely on support from relatives in Queens who were suddenly out of work, or worse. Joblessness and hunger skyrocketed, residents just barely getting by. And yet only for a very short while did walking Roosevelt and its surrounding streets have the same eerie, empty feel as in the rest of the city. Its communities and micro-economies, heavily reliant on in-person interactions, cannot afford to stay still.

“The people who come over, they come to help their family,” says Sanwar Shamal, of Bengali Money Transfer in Jackson Heights.

Snippets of South Asia

Around the 74th Street subway station, the neighborhood is heavily South Asian—mostly people of Bangladeshi, Indian, and Nepalese origin. Bengali-speaking men wearing skullcaps sell plush prayer rugs, headscarves, and gold-plated Islamic iconography from milk crates on the sidewalks, cigarette smoke pouring out of their mouths as they talk. Mannequins showcase bright-colored salwars and chaniya cholis through tall glass windows, and restaurants serve curries with rice and water in silver bowls and cold metal cups.

Seemingly everywhere in Roosevelt’s path, there is a heightened sense of the “old country”—of memories that haven’t faded over long stretches of distance and time. You feel it in the money-transfer and international courier stores along Diversity Plaza, where people line up patiently to send remittances and packages to relatives back home, relatives they haven’t seen in years and might not ever see again. You feel it on the weekends, when families drive in from all over to shop for groceries at Patel Brothers, or to eat at Samudra or Dera or the famous Jackson Diner. You feel it at the sweet shops, where grandfathers wearing tweed suits and large wristwatches take their smiling grandchildren for treats.

And you certainly feel it when you step into the United Sherpa Association, a former Lutheran Church that in 1996 was converted into a Tibetan Buddhist temple and community center now serving more than 12,000 Himalayan Sherpas, the largest population living outside Nepal. People come here to pray and to drink salty yak-butter tea poured from tall thermoses into bowls of blue-and-white china. In pre-pandemic times—according to Tshering Sherpa, the president of the association—nearly 100 people would fill two floors in this temple to worship. “You could hear the chanting from Broadway,” she says, beaming.

“Our seniors established this United Sherpa Association,” says Temba Sherpa, the group’s vice president, “to protect and maintain our identity.” The Sherpa are a Tibetan ethnic group who for hundreds of years have made their livelihoods in the Himalayas, raising yaks and high-altitude crops in the remote mountains. Practically no one knows the Himalayas better than the Sherpa, and in recent years they’ve also become synonymous with their work as climbing guides and porters on Mount Everest.

“We got our identity and economic benefit from mountaineering,” says Ang Tshering Sherpa, himself a former trekking guide. “But there’s not much of an alternative if you aren’t educated.”

Climbing is often a perilous endeavor for the Sherpa, especially with little in the way of formalized protections from the turbulent Nepalese government. “Going to the mountains, it’s like going to war,” Ang Tshering says. “You don’t know if you’ll come back.” Many hundreds of Sherpa people have died or been seriously disabled on climbs over the years. “Once a Sherpa gets in a kind of accident, the family gets very little, they don’t have a safety net,” Ang Tshering adds.

Since the 1990s, and especially after major climbing disasters on Everest, Sherpa have left Nepal in large numbers. Many have come to the area around Roosevelt Avenue, where they often work as taxi drivers, or restaurant cooks and supermarket employees. The United Sherpa Association is a central meeting point of worship and community—where people chant and pray, gather for meals of dhal and root-vegetable stews, and share opportunities for work or study.

There are also classes to teach the Sherpa language and traditions to new generations born in the U.S. Shortly after the pandemic began, the association opened a food pantry—available not only to Sherpas but to anyone—and every Tuesday since then, people have lined up in need. And the Sherpas haven’t stopped advocating for their family members back in Nepal, either: for better educational and economic opportunities, and for improved safety infrastructure for climbing guides and porters, especially as recent tourism downturns and pandemic outbreaks have further devastated the country.

“Most of the Sherpa over here, their families are still in Nepal,” says Pasang Sherpa, president of the US-Nepal Climbers Association, a Queens-based nonprofit. “We know exactly who needs help.”

‘La Roosevelt’

Down the road, the sound of spoken Spanish envelops either side of what’s known as ‘La Roosevelt.’  In Jackson Heights there is a block nicknamed ‘Calle Colombia’ (Colombia Street)—where vendors slice cold coconuts with machetes, and tall stalks of sugarcane disappear into juicers for the sweet drink called guarapo. Further east are standing-room-only taquerias, stores bursting with knock-off soccer jerseys, and electronics dealers and barber shops with hawkers outside telling passersby to come in, just for a minute, just to take a look.

On 80th Street, just south of Roosevelt in Elmhurst, Barco de Papel (Paper Boat) stands as the sole Spanish-language bookstore left in New York City. One of the owners is an older Cuban man named Ramón Caraballo who can usually be found there smoking a cigar. He speaks softly and sparingly. “I am just a man who opens up a bookstore in the morning and closes it at night,” Caraballo said when he first introduced himself. “That is all.”

The building is small, just one room, but it is filled from floor to ceiling with a large selection of some of Latin America’s finest writers—Jorge Luis Borges, Gabriel García Márquez, Isabel Allende—as well as lesser-known staff favorites. It is so stuffed with books only its keepers know where anything is to be found.

Caraballo is one of those keepers. Before he co-founded Barco de Papel in 2003, he sold books from a street cart around the corner. “All my life I’ve dedicated myself to literature,” he says. When he opened the nonprofit store—around the same time that Amazon and rising rents began to spell the demise of independent bookstores, especially Spanish-language ones, across the U.S.—it quickly became a community treasure.

Many customers come to Barco de Papel hoping to rebuild the libraries they left behind when they migrated. “They bring their kids, too,” says Paula Ortiz, a high school teacher from Colombia who co-founded the store. “They can’t take them to their countries, so they bring them here.” Others will gather for tertulias—discussions about literature and current events—and live readings.

But Barco de Papel has also become a hub for information. Since the pandemic, many customers leave with information on vaccines, testing, or treatment. New migrants seek out guidance on how to start a small business or learn English. Children whose parents can’t afford to buy another book benefit from book exchanges.

“We have to constantly change with the community, without losing our essence,” Ortiz says. “We owe ourselves to them.”

Corona Plaza

One afternoon in Barco de Papel, I found Caraballo and two helpers unwrapping a large painting that they were planning to put up in a nearby underpass, part of a public art installation in homage to the neighborhood. This one was a bright-colored portrait of a Latina street vendor flanked by a food truck and some ears of large-kernel corn.

Street vending has long been woven into the fabric of Queens, where on the sidewalks you can buy just about anything. In largely Chinese and Korean neighborhoods like Flushing, vendors pull steaming dumplings and salted duck eggs out of steel tubs; plastic bins offer spiced watermelon seeds, eyebrow beans, and goji berry soup. Along Roosevelt, Bangladeshis and Afghans peddling religious items cross paths with Spanish-speaking vendors who sell food and drink, small metal lockets and neon construction vests, disposable masks, rat poison, smartphone cases, and flowered hanging plants.

Some have been selling for years. Many others have only recently begun, after losing their jobs because of the pandemic-induced economic crisis. Pop-up stands of folding tables and tents have appeared (and expanded) on much-transited corners. People walk past with strollers, pulling back the top to reveal not children but candies, popsicles, and sandwiches. Women weave their way through traffic carrying months-old babies in slings on their backs, selling sliced fruit to drivers at red lights.

“Vending has always been big along Roosevelt, especially in Jackson Heights and Corona, but even more so now, because so many people have lost their income, are facing eviction, and have no safety net,” says Carina Kaufman-Gutierrez, deputy director of The Street Vendor Project, a nonprofit that works with street-sellers across New York City. “Every type of relief that came out during the pandemic excluded undocumented folks. And that hit the area so especially hard.”

The Street Vendor Project estimates that during the pandemic, the number of vendors in Corona Plaza, along Roosevelt Avenue at 103rd Street, rose nearly fourfold, from 20-30 people to more than 100. They come prepared for the elements—with tents, tarps, umbrellas and plastic garbage bags—and work through the rain, snow, sun, and cold.

“We used to live in the mountains, my family,” says María Lucrecia Armira, 44, who migrated to Queens in 2019 from a small village in the department of Suchitepéquez, Guatemala. She has had to adjust to spending nearly every waking hour in the smoky heat of a grill stand, selling meat skewers on the loudest corner of the Plaza. Armira arrived two years ago with her 14-year-old son, who enrolled in the local public school; when the pandemic began a short time later, he dropped out and started working full-time selling raspados (shaved ice) and slushies.

“On the one hand I was nervous about the virus,” Armira says. “On the other hand, we were locked down and couldn’t work.” Sharing a single bedroom with her son in an apartment filled with other families, she tries to send $500 per month—or whatever she can—to her two other children, whom she had to leave behind in Guatemala. “Many people count on what we send from here.”

Street vendors now face opposition from brick-and-mortar business owners frustrated with the sudden boom in new and seemingly unlimited competition. In recent months, the city has stepped up its enforcement of street-vending laws, ticketing and removing those without a permit. There are more than 20,000 vendors estimated to be working in the city, and just a small fraction of permits, leading to price-gauging, according to labor activists.

One afternoon on Corona Plaza, the presence of two New York City inspectors sent many vendors scurrying. There were fewer produce-sellers on the sidewalk, food trucks were shuttered, and shopping carts stood empty, piled atop each other beneath the train tracks.

Ana Maldonado stood nervously in the shadows—across the street from her usual spot on the plaza, where for more than 15 years she’s sold tamales and rice pudding and syrupy Mexican-style hot chocolate from a cart of metal vats and orange Gatorade thermoses.

“My customers know me, they know where to find me,” she says, looking out for inspectors from the stairs to the train. The inspectors had warned her to leave, or risk an expensive fine and all of her merchandise being tossed to the trash. “They’re in the middle of the plaza. If they catch me, I’m finished.”

Originally from a small mountain town in Guerrero, Mexico—where, in the green hills, steam rises from rivers swelled with rain—now she wakes up each morning at 4 a.m. and prepares the day’s food for sale on Roosevelt, not returning home until she’s sold everything. Her husband spent 28 days in the hospital with COVID-19 at the start of 2020 and nearly died; he has been unemployed since. “All that my family has, everything comes from this,” Maldonado says. “I work hard to feed them, whatever it takes.”

Queens Globe

As Roosevelt Avenue nears the end of its eastward course, it’s fitting that it passes by the famous Unisphere, the Queens Globe built for the 1964 World’s Fair, that has since become a symbol of this area’s epic cultural diversity. Here in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the hustling chaos of Roosevelt Avenue abates, if only for a moment, and the world’s borough comes outside to decompress.

In springtime, families take pictures at golden hour in their best sunshine saris, their favorite skirts and collared shirts in front of an explosion of color: the cornelian cherries, the flowering pears, the forsythia and the redbuds in full bloom. Two years after the onset of the pandemic, despite all the challenges the coronavirus has left behind, there are signs of renewal, too—of soccer games returning to dusty fields with goals carried on backs and bicycles; of misting fountains, and the smell of new grass; of the sound of Mister Softee trucks offering ice cream to children with outstretched arms.

I have often thought about what it means to be American on my walks along Roosevelt—what it means to be the product of so many different stories and struggles and heritages that have led us to one singular, raucous mix of a place. In this country that so deeply strives for assimilation, there is often pressure to distill identities, to make them more palatable for others looking on.

But what is both so special and so hard about Queens is that assimilation does not come easy.

I think about this with every scene that crosses my gaze, with every encounter and conversation—whether in a bookstore or a temple, on the 7 train or on a soccer field in the park. I think about the many definitions of “American” when my own family, a blend of cultures shaped by migrations forced and voluntary, ventures out to this neighborhood for tastes of a past that continues to mark our future here. As parents look for fair and just opportunities to raise their children in the U.S., to learn English, to find work, and to support their families abroad, that sense of the ‘old country’ is unlikely to fade from Roosevelt Avenue, so long as people keep migrating to neighborhoods like this one.

I thought about that when I first met Maldonado, the undocumented street vendor who left Mexico two decades ago and cannot return without risk of not being able to get back into the U.S. I told her that I’d recently been there and asked her what part of the country she was from. Instead of answering right away she touched my wrist with her hands and looked into my eyes. “Cómo está?” she asked about her homeland. “How is it?”

During the 73^rd anniversary of India’s Republic, India showcased depicting the rich cultural heritage and diversity of India by several states and Union Territories and nine of Union Ministries and Armed Forces and the Defense Research and Development Organization as dozens of tableaux rolled down Rajpath on Wednesday, January 26^th.

At a time when several Opposition-ruled states complained that their tableaux were not selected for the Republic Day parade, even as the government insisted that the decision was taken by an expert committee and there is no political intervention, the tableaux of four of the five poll-bound states made it to Rajpath on Republic Day.

The Air Force tableau paid homage to the victory over Pakistan in the 1971 War, with models of MiG 21, Gnat — both of which were used in the war — and the Light Combat Helicopters. DRDO showcased major weapon platforms developed by it, including the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and an Air Independent Propulsion system it is working on for the submarines.

Meanwhile, Goa showed symbols of its heritage and Haryana had a simplistic tableau with several sportsmen from the state on a “victory chariot” carrying the national flag. The idea was to highlight that although it occupies only 1.3 per cent of the country’s landmass and 2.09 per cent of the population, sportsmen from the state have brought maximum medals for the country in various international sporting events, including the Olympics.

Maharashtra showed the rich biodiversity of the state, with 15 animals and 22 plants as a part of the tableau, including large models of the Blue Mormon Butterfly and more.

For Most people, the Immigrant American Dreams mean, better opportunities to find work, Better living conditions, to be with their American spouses/families and to get the best education.

Recent census data shows that the Diverse and Growing Asian Population in the United States nearly tripled in the past three decades, and Asians are now the fastest-growing ethnic minority of the United State of America. Incredible success of the Indian American diaspora can be attributed to the fact that we are one of the best educated groups with over 80% having college degrees, in addition to the uptick, the Asian population has become geographically diverse with the wide distinctions in income, citizenship and political preference.

It is extremely difficult to achieve both the American Dream and holding on to the Traditional Indian Family Values. The Kothari family led by Hasmukh Kothari is a living example of how a blend of traditional values with modern and progressive thinking can help create a harmonious family life.

Born in the historical year of India’s Independence, 1947, to Shri Govind Lal Kothari and Smt. Sharda Kothari, in a small town of Gujarat called Kadi, Hasmukh finished his education with a degree in Civil Engineering, after which he procured a job as an assistant lecturer in Mumbai. In 1968, Hasmukh married Usha to start a blissful family life.

In 1980, Hasmukh Kothari, armed with a degree in Civil engineering, landed on the US soil with an empty wallet but a heart full of dreams. He was the first one from his family to make this transition. He worked very hard to reach the goals that he had set for himself and his family.

He started his career here as a Life Insurance sales person, progressively transitioning into real estate income tax, mortgage and insurance industry. In the past, he has played an active part in Gujarati Samaj of Chicago and is a prominent community leader. He truly believes in giving back to the community and uplifting the society as a whole, keeping alive our culture and heritage.

After working with a variety of companies, Hasmukh started his new venture KMS Realty in 2004 which is very well known in the industry now.  Today he has a thriving business and a wonderful family, complete with his two sons, older one, Bobby, his wife Shobhana, younger son, Bunty, his wife Ranna and one daughter Pinki, her husband, Pranav and the grandkids- which he considers, is his real wealth. In addition to the United States of America, he has an Extended family of more than 50 members back home in India as well, who respect him for the accomplished man he is now.

Almost every weekend, members of the Kothari family gather. And recently on December 17th, 2021, the family gathered again to celebrate older son Bobby’s 50th birthday. Bobby is also a successful businessman running his Construction & Remodeling Company, while his wife Shobhana Kothari is a professional licensed cosmetologist. Along with the entire family, Shobhana wishes her husband a very happy, healthy and prosperous life.

Mostly we hear about the two regrets the dying people express the most: 1) I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected out of me. 2) I wish I had spent more time with my family. When asked, Hasmukh Kothari, said, “100% I have no such regrets, because for me, I have always made my family my first priority and always made sure to spend substantial and quality time with my loved ones.”

Hasmukh’s message to the immigrants today is that the United States of America is the land of opportunities, but everyone needs to work hard, work smart with ethics endowed at every step, not to forget the big part education plays in one’s life! He added,” We are all Stars, but we must learn how to Shine!”. Today, living a content and happy life with his family, Hasmukh Kothari is an inspiration to the young immigrants who have same dreams and passions.

America’s population size is standing still, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Population growth over the 12-month period from July 1, 2020 through July 1, 2021 stood at unprecedented low of just 0.12%. This is the lowest annual growth since the Bureau began collecting such statistics in 1900, and reflects how all components of population change—deaths, births, and immigration levels—were impacted during a period when the COVID-19 pandemic became most prevalent.

The new estimates show that during this period, population growth declined from the previous year in 31 of 50 states as well as Washington, D.C., with 18 states sustaining absolute population losses. In some states, especially California and New York, population losses were exacerbated by inflated out-migration during the pandemic, just as other states such as Florida and Texas benefitted from greater population in-flows.

While COVID-19 clearly played a role in this near-zero population growth, that growth had begun to plummet even before the pandemic. The 2020 census showed that from 2010 to 2020, the U.S. registered the second-lowest decade growth in its history—a consequence, in large part, of the aging of its population, which led to more deaths and fewer births. Nonetheless, the new data shows that pandemic-related demographic forces have left an indelible mark on the nation.

Historic dips and spikes in population growth follow pandemics and economic trends

The unprecedented near cessation of U.S. population growth is depicted in Figure 1, which charts annual growth rates in the 121-year period from 1900 to 2021. Over this time, the nation experienced wide variations in growth, resulting from wars, economic booms and busts, as well as changing fertility and immigration patterns.

Noteworthy are the sharp dips in growth: in 1918-19, due largely to the Spanish Flu pandemic, and in the late 1920s and early 1930s as a result of the Great Depression. Growth rose to levels approaching 2% during the prosperous post-World War II “baby boom” years of the 1950s and 1960s. And after a lull in the 1970s and 1980s, population growth rose again in the 1990s due to rising immigration and millennial generation births.

The 21st century ushered in another population growth downturn, exacerbated by the 2007-09 Great Recession. This spilled into a 2010s decade-wide growth slowdown that provided a backdrop for the nearly flat growth of 0.12% in 2020-21. This most recent statistic reflects more deaths and fewer births associated with an aging population along with greater restrictions in immigration near the end of the decade, even before the pandemic hit.

The factors that led to today’s unprecedented flat growth rate

The demographic components of reduced population growth in 2020-21 are depicted in Figure 2, which contrasts year-by-year changes since 2000 in what demographers call “natural increase”—the excess of births over deaths as well as net international migration.

As indicted above, declines in the nation’s natural increase levels during the 2010s reflected more deaths associated with an aging population as well as the after-effects of the Great Recession in the postponement of childbearing for young adult women. Immigration trends were more uneven due to changing economic circumstances, including the recession and immediate post-recession downturn, as well as immigration policies that became more restrictive during the Trump administration.

Both natural increase and immigration contributions to population growth became markedly reduced in 2020-21, in large part due to the pandemic. (Pandemic impacts were partially evident already in 2019-20 data.) Population gains attributable to natural increase rose as high as 1.1 million in 2016-17, but dropped to 677,000 in 2019-20 and then again to 148,000 in 2020-21. Over the past two years, the number of deaths in the U.S. rose by 363,000 (from 3.07 million to 3.43 million) and the number of births declined by 166,000 (from 3.74 million to 3.58 million)—reflecting, in part, pandemic-related decisions to postpone having children.

Immigration levels plummeted as well, exacerbating the impacts of earlier policy restrictions. The new estimates showed a net international migration of just 256,000 in 2020-21—down from an already low 477,000 in 2019-20 and from over 1 million per year in the middle of the 2010s decade.

Despite this decline in immigration, it was the dip in natural increase—propelled by deaths during the pandemic—that drove much of the nation’s dramatic growth slowdown.  In contrast to earlier years, the contribution of natural increase to the nation’s growth was even less than that of immigration.

Eighteen states lost population in the past year

The national growth slowdown exerted a broad impact across the nation’s states. Among the nation’s 50 states and Washington, D.C., 31 showed lower growth (or greater losses) in 2020-21 than in 2019-20 (see downloadable Table B).

The states that led in growth rates were mostly in the Mountain West, including Idaho, Utah, Montana, and Arizona, which had annual rates exceeding 1.4%. In terms of numeric growth, the biggest gainers in 2020-21 were Texas (310,000 people), Florida (211,000), Arizona (98,000), and North Carolina (93,000). Still, these gains were smaller than what these states saw in 2019-20 or 2018-19.

Table 1. States with population declines, 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21

Source: William H. Frey analysis of US Census Bureau estimates, released December 21, 2021

Perhaps most noteworthy is the fact that 18 states (including Washington, D.C.) lost population in 2020-21. This is up from 16 population-losing states 2019-20; 14 in 2018-19; and just 10 in the two prior years.

New York and California registered the biggest numeric losses. Both states showed substantially greater losses in 2020-21 than in the prior two years, as was the case for most states that sustained recent population losses.

Twenty-five states registered more deaths than births

The poor growth performance of most states in 2020-21 reflects a combination of lower natural increase and smaller immigration from abroad—components which led to reduced national growth and reduced domestic migration across states (see downloadable Table C).

All 50 states and Washington, D.C. displayed lower natural increase in 2020-21 than in the previous year. Moreover, 25 states showed what demographers call “natural decrease”—an excess of deaths over births. Led by Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and West Virginia, most of these states are in the nation’s Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast. Just eight of these states registered natural decreases in 2019-20; in 2018-19, this was the case for only four (West Virginia, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont).

Similarly, immigration from abroad was lower across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. in 2020-21 than in the previous year. This is especially the case for those with greatest immigrant gains: Florida, Texas, New York, and California.

Domestic migration sharpened state gains and losses

Domestic migration (movement within the U.S.) is the one demographic component which can either worsen or improve state population growth in a slow growth environment. This was especially the case during the past year, when pandemic-related economic, social, and safety factors prompted selective movement flows.

The new census estimates show how domestic migration impacted states which both lost and gained population. For example, the three states with the greatest overall population losses—New York, California, and Illinois—were the three leaders in net out-migration.    These states contain major cities and metropolitan areas, which have been associated with out-migration during the pandemic, and registered greater out-migration in 2020-21 than in each of the previous two years. It is also noteworthy that Washington, D.C. lost 23,000 domestic migrants—a huge outlier from earlier years, when the city experienced far smaller migration losses or gains (see downloadable Table C).

Similarly, states with the greatest overall population gains—Texas, Florida, and Arizona—were leaders in 2020-21 domestic in-migration. Just as most migrant-losing states shed greater numbers of migrants during the pandemic than earlier, it is the case that most migrant-gaining states (Arizona and Nevada were among the exceptions) gained more migrants than before.

A historic demographic low point

Among the many consequences the COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted on the nation, its impact on the nation’s demographic stagnation is likely to be consequential. The new census estimates make plain that as a result of more deaths, fewer births, and a recent low in immigration, America has achieved something close to zero growth in the 2020-21 period. This trend has affected most states, and will lead to sharp changes in how many Americans make decisions about childbearing as well as where and how they live.

While it is true that the rise in pandemic-period deaths—especially among the older population—contributed much to this slow growth, declines in fertility and immigration also added a great deal. Because the latter demographic components contribute most to any future rise in the nation’s youth and labor-force-age population, it is vital that we examine public policies that can overcome barriers to the bearing and raising of children and, probably most important, stimulate immigration in ways that will reinvigorate the nation’s population growth.

Even before the onset of the pandemic, Census Bureau projections foresaw the onset of slower growth, increased aging, and continued stagnation of our labor force. Among the many ways that are needed to recover from the pandemic, a focus on reactivating the nation’s population growth should be given high priority.

Nearly 250 people the New York Tri-State region came together to celebrate and share the joys of the Christmas Season at the Cottllion Restaurant & Party Hall on Long Island, New York on Saturday, December 11^th, 2021. Organized by the recently formed Hedge Social Club, through an initiative of Jacob (SAJI) Abraham, Founder & Chairman of Hedge Events of New York, the colorful event, symbolizing the joy and fellowship of Christmas was shared by the participants.

“Life is better with friends,” Jacob Abraham told the participants in his welcome address, providing insight into the objectives of creating the Hedge Social Club. “Friends are the ones who know you and are always there when you need them most. During the pandemic times, a sense of community is more important now than ever before. People near you are looking to form connections and find support.”

Prominent among those who attended the event and felicitated Jacob Abraham whose dynamic leadership has given birth to the Hedge Brokerage, Hedge Events and now the Hedge Social Club included: Ginsmom Zachariah, Founding Chairman of Indo-American Press Club; Ajay Ghosh, Chief Editor of The Universal News Network and IAPC BOD Secretary; Paul Karukapallil, FOKANA BOD Chairman; Ajeeth Abraham Nassau University Hospital BOD member; Thomas Ommen Shibu, R &T Production; Jiju and Reenu Kulankara from Houston; Kunju Maliyil, FOMMA Regional Vice President; and Rajan (Mithras Festival).

Senator Kevin Thomas of the New York State greeted the audience. Guest of Honor was Dr. Freemu Varghese, Founder and CEO of Freedia Media.  Minos Abraham served eloquently as the Emcee for the program. Biju Chacko, a BOD member of IAPC introduced Jacob Abraham to the audience.

In addition to a delicious spread of authentic Indian cuisine and drinks, the Gala was packed with music, dance and felicitations by reputed local artists. Funds raised through a raffle with attractive gifts was sent to a young child in Kerala for the much needed surgery.

The Ganamela for the evening was filled with the melodious voices of Jemson Kuriakose, Sujeeth Moolayil, Aparna Shibu and Archana Moolalyil. The beautifully choreographed cinematic dance was by Jithu & Team of the Tri-state Dance Company.  Tozin supported the event with his Digital Skills, while Saji managed Sound, and Sunny George provided IT support. Julia Digital Videos & EVENTS CATZ VIJI coordinated the event.

Stating that Hedge Club is a forum to “Meet new people at the Hedge Club, which is the ultimate group” Jacob Abraham said, “HEDGE CLUB is the one you always wanted to be part of. A group that you feel you belong to, and you believe it to be an integral part of who you are.” The Club members meet every month and celebrate and enhance their fellowship and joy. To join the Group and expand one’s friends circle and spend quality time with people, please call Saji Abraham at: 516. 606.3268.

The office of Asian Community Affairs, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran & Executive Director of External Affairs Farrah Mozawalla along with Indian American Forum Founding Member Dr. Bobby K. Kalotee & Chairperson Indu Jaiswal, celebrated Diwali honoring distinguished Indian American Community leaders. Hosted by Beena Kothari & Emceed by Flora Parekh, the event highlighted the accomplishments of several prominent Indian American community leaders like Jasbir (Jay) Singh (Board Member – Asian American Advisory Board of Nassau County), Anil Shah, (Trustee VTNY & Dunkin Donut Franchise Owner), Roopam Maini (BCB Community Bank), Uday Dommaraju (President – TLCA), Harish Thakkar (President – AIA), Dilip Kumar (Regional Representative – TANA), Dr. Ravindra Goyal (Trustee & President – Hindu Center Inc. Flushing), Harshad Patel (President – Gujarati Samaj of New York), Mayur Parekh (JSLI & IDP),  Manik Malhotra (SaReGaMa Desi Beats) & Krish Rudra (Mortgage Consultant).

The tireless efforts of the county and founding members along with a dedicated Hosts committee of Dr. Bobby K. Kalotee, Chairperson Indu Jaiswal, Beena Kothari, Flora Parekh, Jasbir (Jay) Singh, Mukesh Modi, Shashi Malik, Sunita Manjrekar, Deepak Bansal, Indu Gajwani, Anju Sharma and several volunteers and supporters, contributed to the success of the event keeping up the spirit of Diwali.

Starting with the American & Indian National Anthems by Abigail Varghese & Anjani Patel, the event followed a traditional Diya Ceremony. Beautifully choreographed Bollywood performances by young girls Yashswini, Sia and Sana were the highlights of the evening. The venue was traditionally decorated by Anju and Sanju Sharma. Mouthwatering dinner boxes were served by Sheetal Talati from Rajbhog.

Several Indian American Forum Board members and community leaders namely Mohinder Taneja, Rizwan Qureshi, Suhag Mehta, etc. were in attendance. Indian American Forum has been instrumental in showcasing the Indian tradition in NY for several decades. Additional information can be found at www.indianamericanforum.org.

A 52-year-old Indian businessman has built a scaled-down replica of the iconic Taj Mahal as a home for his wife of 27 years.

Anand Prakash Chouksey built his “monument of love” in Burhanpur city in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.

“It was a gift for my wife but also for the town and its people,” Mr Chouksey told the BBC.

The house cost about 20 million rupees (£199,000; $260,000) to build, he said.

The Taj Mahal is a 17th Century mausoleum in Agra city. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his queen Mumtaz who died while giving birth to their 14th child.

The stunning marble monument, famed for its intricate lattice work, is one of India’s biggest tourist attractions. Before the pandemic, it drew as many as 70,000 people every day – a list that has included celebrities and dignitaries.

Mr Chouksey’s replica – nestled deep inside his sprawling 50-acre property, which includes a hospital, has also been attracting a steady stream of visitors.

People walk in the lawns and click pictures, he said. “A lot of people have also started to do their pre-wedding shoots here,” Mr Chouksey added.

“I don’t stop them because in our town, we are a close-knit community where everyone knows everyone. So, my house is open for all.”

Mr Chouksey said that not all visitors are allowed inside the house because “after all, it is our home and we live there”.

But sometimes, the family indulges its guests who come and marvel at the house’s lush interiors – the intricate flower motifs that decorate the marble walls and floors, and its overarching lattice windows.

The house consists of two main bedrooms that are located on two separate floors. It also has a library and a meditation room. The drawing room flaunts marble columns, a curving staircase and a gilded ceiling. Image source, Anand Prakash Chouksey

Although the Taj Mahal was the ultimate inspiration, Mr Chouksey said the interiors are not strictly Islamic in design but are infused with contemporary influences, which is evident from the choice of sofas and the curtains.

Building the replica of the famous monument took three years and a flurry of visits to the city of Agra, where the Taj s located, so Mr Chouksey and his wife could study various aspects of the mausoleum.

“We also used a lot of 3D images of the Taj Mahal on the internet to build our own,” Mr Chouksey added. The idea was to build something similar, so the engineers reduced the size to one third of the actual monument.

The four bedroom house is located in a small city in central India In 2013, a retired government official in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh had also built a replica of the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife.  But Mr Chouksey says his house is not dedicated to his wife alone.  “Today, there is a lot of hate in our country. People are being divided in the name of religion and caste,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist BJP government has been widely accused of polarising India along religious lines, and fostering intolerance. Even the Taj Mahal has been caught in the crosshairs – in 2017, a BJP lawmaker called the monument a “blot on Indian culture” built by “traitors”. Mr Chouksey said he wanted to “spread love” in such distressing times.  “And this house for me is a symbol of that love – one which goes beyond our social differences and the political noise.”

The multi-faith, multi-day celebration of Diwali took place at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, IL concluding on November 4th. The Indian diaspora as well as community members and well-wishers all gathered to celebrate the festival of lights and commemorate the New Year.

The Mandir was beautifully decorated with rangoli, diyas, lights, and artwork. An annakut of delicious vegetarian food, delicious treats, and delectable desserts was meticulously arranged by volunteers. Attendees dressed in their colorful and bright traditional Indian attire. The aura and atmosphere of the Mandir was warm and festive.

The celebrations offered attendees an opportunity for darshan of the annakut and divine murtis of God while arti and thaal were sung throughout the day. Visitors were also inspired through an exhibition on with informational posters and decorations describing different traditions and stories behind the multi-day festival. In expressing the warmth and goodwill of Diwali, prasad in the form of sweets was distributed to all those joining in the celebrations. The festivities were open to all members of the local community.

A parent visiting the temple with their young family commented that the exhibition was an educational experience for young children and adults who want to learn about Diwali.  Samir Patel of South Barrington expressed “I think it’s important for parents to bring their kids so they can understand what our culture is about, our traditions and our religion. Coming to the mandir we learn to appreciate and be proud of those things instead of being embarrassed or ashamed.”

Volunteers who helped with the decorations and rangoli emphasized how rewarding it felt to take part this year and celebrate with community members after so many months of the pandemic.

A Kids’ Diwali celebration is also held each year consisting of interactive games, thrilling activities, and programs covering the history and purpose of Diwali. Due to COVID-related safety considerations for children, the Kids’ Diwali celebration will be held virtually this year on November 13. The program will allow children to learn about the significance of Diwali and to take part in a virtual pooja to offer their prayers.

The spiritual leader of BAPS, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, prayed for devotees’ spiritual, personal, and professional progress in this new year. This Diwali, Mahant Swami Maharaj emphasized the importance of leading spiritually-centered lives, grounded in strong values and increased attachment to God.

About BAPS

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a spiritual, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service. Its worldwide network of 3,800 centers supports these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is free of addictions as well as morally, ethically, and spiritually pure. For more details, please visit www.baps.org.

About Mahant Swami Maharaj

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.

About Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Pramukh Swami Maharaj was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Under his leadership, BAPS grew into an international spiritual and humanitarian organization with over 3,300 centers worldwide. He dedicated his life to the well-being of others, traveling throughout the world to foster love, peace, harmony, righteousness, faith in God, and service to humanity. With genuine care and compassion, he reached out to all members of society irrespective of class, color, or age. Recognized and respected as one of India’s greatest spiritual teachers, he lived by and promoted the principle: “In the joy of others, lies our own.”

Hon. Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State hosted a grand Diwali Reception under the aegis of National Council of Asian Indian Associations [NCAIA] at the iconic Atrium of the state of Illinois building in Chicago with all the festive color, lights, confection, pleasantries and exchange of greetings.  The colorful Diwali celebrations encompassed ceremonial lamp lighting led by Hon. Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State and Consul General of India Mr. Amit Kumar joined by NCAIA principal officers: Harish Kolasani, Dr. Anuja Gupta, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Neelam Dwivedi Singh, Ajeet Singh, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori and Vinesh Virani. Illinois Secretary of State Hon. Jesse White welcomed the guests with open doors for the first time to celebrate Diwali deep inside his executive office and heaped praises on the Indian American community.

Hon. Jesse White –in his greeting remarks – said I am a dear friend of the Indian American community and I share the same philosophy of love and kindness with the citizens of Illinois State. Hon. Jesse White said that he was inspired by the dictates of Mahatma Gandhi & Martin Luther King and he follows that creed in inspiring the inner-city youth. Diwali truly symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and victory of knowledge over ignorance. Hon. Jesse White characterized Diwali as a magnificent festival that epitomizes the spirit of light and color. 

Consul General of India Mr. Amit Kumar in his remarks presented an in-depth overview of the origin of Diwali and the significance it brings to bear of its enduring symbolism and its central message, which cherishes the brightness over the forces of darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Consul General Mr. Amit Kumar thanked Hon. Jesse White for hosting a welcoming Diwali celebration in his office and he acknowledged and thanked the key leaders of the National Council of Asian Indian Association for hosting a splendid Diwali celebration along with the Illinois Secretary of State.

Dr. Anuja Gupta, Midwest President opened the celebrations with welcome remarks and thanked Secretary of State Jesse White for his exceptional magnanimity in hosting Diwali celebrations deep into the chambers of his iconic office. Dr. Anuja Gupta highlighted the significance of Diwali and its underlying spiritual philosophy of its victory over evil, darkness and ignorance ushering in a new light of goodness, victory and knowledge.

Harish Kolasani, National President outlined the goals and mission of NCAIA and the yeoman accomplishments it had made over the years. Dr. Suresh Reddy, NCAIA Executive Vice President presenting the Village of Oakbrook Proclamation to Hon. Jesse White and added it is truly historic for the Illinois Secretary of State to open the doors of his magnificent office to celebrate Diwali for the first time.  Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Secretary generously thanked Secretary of State Jesse White for opening the doors of the magnificent chambers of his office and inviting the Indian American community in celebrating Diwali with the festive reception so graciously hosted. 

Ajeet Singh, Vice President presented a flower bouquet and a garland and a shawl in appreciation of Jesse White’s gracious hospitality and welcome. Neelam Dwivedi Singh, NCAIA Chairwoman extended Diwali greetings and added that the lights of diyas illuminate life with knowledge, compassion, care and love for each other. The event concluded with a reception and exchange of Diwali greetings. Others who joined in the festivities include Indian Consul Laxman Prasad Gupta, Dr. Vidyani, Vinita Gulabani, Shalini Gupta, Prachi Jaitley, Girish/Ratna Kapoor, Shree Guruswamy and others.

NCAIA is a premier umbrella national organization incorporated in 1993 in Maryland, USA and the Midwest Chapter was established in 2019 in IL to empower Indian community by promoting effective community organizations that can create an impact on the society and help usher a meaningful social change.

The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Association of Greater Chicago held a function for the annual day and Diwali celebration on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at the Ashyana Banquet Hall in Downers Grove, IL. Last year, Diwali was celebrated with a variety of virtual cultural programs because of the Covid pandemic, but this year, it was celebrated in person with a very impressive gathering and high-quality cultural programs highlighting the rich culture of India.

Diwali or Deepavali, means deep (light) and avali (rows). It is an inner illumination from ignorance to knowledge; good defeats evil and bring happiness in family and community.

The event started with a Diya lighting ceremony by executive committee and board of trustees members led by Dr. Subhash Pandey and Chief Guest, Mr. PK Mishra, and was followed by a beautiful sitar instrumental presentation of bhajan medley by Mr. Paneesh Rao. The program was organized and coordinated by Mr. Sunish Mittal and Mr. Raj Kumar Upadhyay, treasurer and president of the UP Association, respectively.

Mr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, president of the organization, welcomed the audience on this occasion. Dr. Subhash Pandey, Chairman Board of Trustees of the UP Association, also welcomed the audiences and presented an explanation of the purpose of the association. He explained that the Association was established in 1991 and is celebrating its 30th anniversary as well. He highlighted that the main purpose of the Association is to keep our cultural heritage alive especially in new generations. UP Association also organizes Kavi Sammelan every year to promote Hindi, a national language of India. He concluded by thanking all past presidents for their hard work towards fulfilling the objectives of the organization. 

Chief Guest Hon. PK Mishra Consul & Head of Chancery (Counsel General of India, Chicago) conveyed the greetings of Consulate General of India (CGI), Chicago, on the occasion of Diwali and explained about the many services offered by CGI Chicago. He also congratulated the organization for completing 30 years.

The Association brought in several renowned artists from Chicago who presented a range of traditional, modern, and contemporary Indian performances, including an outstanding dance (Ganesh Vandana and Shri Ram stuti) by Mrs. Gauri Jog, director & teacher, India dance school. This was followed by several melodious songs by two well-known singers, Mrs. Ananya Ghosh and Mr. Sreepathy that were accompanied by an outstanding musician team. This was followed by a program called “Saaz aur Alfaaz” by Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, a famous poet, and Mr. Sunish Mittal, a well accomplished singer. Two children’s performers, Mr. Shlok Jaiswal and Ms. Anavi Ghosh also sang melodious songs for this occasion. The program ended with a presentation of a colorful group dance to a Bollywood movie song.

A variety of delicious foods and snacks were served by the Ashyana Banquet, and great hospitality was shown by Mr. Surendra Jain and his staff which was highly appreciated by all the guests. At the end, a vote of thanks was proposed by the UP-Association Vice President Mrs. Uma Agarwal. This event was a fun evening filled with several cultural items and delicious food.

New York City Council Member James F. Gennaro and District Leader Neeta Jain were joined by a number of elected officials and local leaders for the annual New York City Council’s Diwali Festival – a celebration of the festival of lights on Saturday, November 13. This year marked the return of the annual tradition, which was cancelled last year due to COVID-19. This year, the festival, traditionally held at City Hall, was hosted in Queens – at Queens College’s LeFrak Concert Hall. The event, which was free and open to the public upon registration, was a major success, with tickets completely sold out just four days after it was announced.

 Diwali – known as the festival of lights – is one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and even some Buddhists. Each religion has its own historical narrative behind the holiday. Diwali is widely observed among more than a billion people from a variety of faiths across India and its diaspora. The five days of Diwali are marked by prayer, feasts, fireworks, family gatherings, and charitable giving.

The event, organized by Council Member Gennaro and District Leader Jain, incorporated a number of traditional Diwali elements and performances, including a Peace Prayer by Dr. Krishna Pratap Dixit, a lamp lighting ceremony, a Ganesh Vandana Prayer by the members of the Hindu Temple Society of North America, a Bollywood Medley performed by Anadita Guha, Sarva Devatha Anjali performed by the Mukthambar Fine Arts Team, Nagade Sang Dhol Baje performed by Dr. Sumita Guha, and Masala Bhangra performed by Sarina Jain and her team.

On this occasion we honored accomplished philanthropics of our communities: Mr Kanak Golia, a businessman and a philanthropic, Dr Ravindra Goyal, Pulmonologist and Hindu Center President, Mr. Simarjeet Singh Gizlian, a Sikh community leader and Sarina Jain, a fitness Diva and and founder of Masala Bhangra.

“I was thrilled to host this weekend’s Diwali event at Queens College. Diwali is a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. It is a beautiful tradition, and I am honored to have played a role in bringing the festival to Queens this year,” said Council Member Gennaro. “I would like to thank Queens College for providing us with the venue, District Leader Neeta Jain, who helped my office organize this event, and all the elected officials who came out to celebrate with us.”

“May the lamps (Diya) of Diwali (Deepavali) illuminate everyone’s life with happiness, peace and good health. Wish you and your family a very prosperous Diwali and a happy new year! On this Diwali, let’s make a promise to bring lights in people lives who suffered during this pandemic, and also pray to God for a good health and fortune for everyone! Looking forward to celebrate Diwali back again at City Hall next year with more joy of having it as NYC public school’s holiday!,” said Dr. Neeta Jain District Leader and co-organizer.

“It was my honor to once again co-sponsor the City Council’s Diwali event and to join my friends and neighbors for a beautiful celebration right here in Queens,” said Council Member Barry S. Grodenchik. “I cannot think of a better start to the holiday season.”

“Diwali is a festival of new beginnings and of light and hope. I was happy to co-sponsor this year’s festivities with my Council colleagues and celebrate this day with our friends and families,” said Council Member Peter Koo. “Wishing everyone a blessed, healthy, and prosperous holiday. May hope and light guide us all this Diwali and this holiday season!”

“It was a pleasure to celebrate Diwali at Queens College on Saturday evening. The festivities honored community advocates who have devoted their time, energy, and resources to improve the lives of countless NYC residents,” said Assembly Member David Weprin. “Diwali is a holiday celebrating the victory of light over darkness. After another difficult year in the pandemic, it was comforting to gather in-person and take part in a ceremony acclaiming the ultimate triumph of good over evil.”

“New York is no stranger to Diwali and its symbolic relevance. It is very heartening to see the festival of lights being celebrated here with great joy and fervor – not only by the South-Asian community, but also by members of diverse ethnicities and nationalities just like the Indian-American community celebrates Christmas and other festivals passionately and with great merriments,” said Deputy Consul General of India, Dr. Varun Jeph, who was in attendance at Saturday’s festival. “It truly reflects the American and Indian values of celebrating diversity and of embracing different cultures. May the festival of lights bring joy, love, peace, prosperity and good health to everyone.”

Deputy Consul General of Israel, Israel Nitzan was in attendance as well and he said ‘ his is the first time I am celebrating Diwali with Indian American community.”  Event was also attended by Desi Society of NYPD officers and a representative from New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

Chicago Indo-US Lions Club in association with the Office of Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, hosted Diwali celebration on November 5th, 2021 in Chicago IL. The guest of Honor for the event was Consul General Amit Kumar who congratulated Indo US Lions Club and Maria Pappas for hosting the historic event and spoke about the significance of Diwali and the celebration as big step in creating awareness about cultural heritage of India.

The second-generation INDO-US lions team headed by Hina Trivedi and Lion Maria Pappas also recognized some members and volunteers for their services for the community and for their contribution to Indo US communities during Covid-19. Hina Trivedi presented plaques to the special guests Amit Kumar, Maria Pappas, Laxman Gupta as a token of appreciation for their exceptional leadership.

Lion Hina Trivedi spoke about the selfless efforts by Chicago Indo Us lions club in helping families and kids by donating school supplies, backpacks, coat drive and food drive. The club recently helped many patients in India with ventilators as well.

The celebration was well attended by many community leaders that included the team members of AMEC Anica Dubey along with Dr. Vijay Prabhakar who supported the event. Media was represented by Prachi Jaitly of Asian Media Broadcasting (AMB). 

Maria Pappas declared Diwali as an annual event to celebrate every year on a large scale together with Chicago Indo US club. Hina Trivedi, founder President Chicago INDO-US Lions along with the efforts and vision of Dr. Ram Gajjela founder chair and 2021 President Jay Trivedi helped making historic celebration happen further strengthening the Indo US relationship.

Chicago IL: SSS Entertainment organized a musical evening on November 13th at Fairfield Inn, Schaumburg, IL to support a philanthropic cause. The event aimed at raising funds for children orphaned due to Covid-19 Pandemic. Following a devotional dance performance by Jenish Bulsara, Swapnil Shah started the event talking about the vision behind organizing the event and also thanked all the donors for coming forward to help. The grand sponsors of the event were Anil Loomba of Home Mortgage Solutions Inc., Pinky and Dinesh Thakkar and Ketan and Purvi Shah. Ketan shah and Pinky Thakkar addressed the audience and applauded the benevolent gesture of the organization to support the kids in need. All the sponsors and supporters were duly acknowledged by the organizers by presenting a token of appreciation.

The event featured some very well-known vocalists of Chicagoland Rita Shah, Rajesh Chelam, Jitendra Bulsara, Pratibha Jairath and Mir Ali along with the live orchestra by Orchestra Sa Re Ga Ma led by Hitesh Master Nayak and his team accompanied by Nupur Sound. The musical team kept the guests entertained with a beautiful line up of evergreen melodies. The guests celebrated Sunil Shah’s birthday with a surprise cake cutting ceremony organized by daughter in law Nikki Shah. Mr Shah brought the entire audience on the floor with his excellent singing performance. Sunil and Rita were accompanied by their family and friends who wholeheartedly worked towards the cause behind the evening.

Rita Shah during her speech thanked all the donors and supporters followed by a brief address by Sunil Shah who mentioned how Rita Shah has been the driving force behind his many successful initiatives like FIA, one of the biggest Indian associations in the US. Rita presented her singing talent in 2005 with legendary Bollywood singer Mahendra Kapoor for Tsunami Relief event and through her singing has also helped collect funds for Uttarakhand floods with her devotional songs. She has also sung and performed with Bollywood singer Bappi Lahiri & Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan

What a humble reply when someone from audience told that, “You are a star “She politely replied, “Tare Zamane Pe “

The event was anchored by Prachi Jaitly and Mohan Rawat who kept the audience entertained. The other elected officials and community leaders presented at the event were Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison, Brij Sharma of Power Volt, Dr Bhupinder Beri, Dr Parag Doshi, Neil Khot, Mukesh Shah, Rita Singh, Aishwarya Sharma, Ketu Amin, Manish Gandhi, Hitesh Gandhi, Dr Kamal Patel, Vinita Gulabani, Gurmeet Singh, Shargio Patel, Dipen lakha, Krishna Bansal, Nimish Jani, Dr Mona Ghosh and several other prominent people from the community. Media was represented by Asian Media Broadcasting. Delicious food was from Shree Restaurant.

Chicago IL: Chicago’s City Treasurer Hon. Melissa Conyears-Ervin hosted a grand Diwali Reception brimming with festive colors, lights, dance, music and ceremonial lamp lighting with her deep appreciation for sharing the spirit of Diwali with fellow Chicagoans at the iconic City Hall in Chicago amidst the gathering of prominent Indian American community, organizational and business leaders. This Diwali celebration was initiated by National Council of Asian Indian Associations [NCAIA]

Following the invocation by Anu Malhotra and lamp-lighting ceremony, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Oakbrook Trustee presiding over the Diwali celebration event invited Dr. Bharat Barai, an eminent community leader who presented a brief overview of the story of Diwali and how it has contemporary relevance in terms of its central message of spreading light, goodness and knowledge over darkness, evil and ignorance.

The celebrations encompassed the ceremonious crowning of Chicago’s City Treasurer Hon. Melissa Conyears-Ervin with a silk colorful headgear symbolizing the crowning appreciation from NCAIA for hosting a grand Diwali in the magnificent iconic City Hall building that was led by Event Convener & Vice President Ajeet Singh joined by NCAIA officers: Harish Kolasani, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Vinesh Virani, Neelam Dwivedi Singh, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Shekhar Misra, Iftekhar Shareef & Nag Jaiswal. NCAIA National President Harish Kolasani welcomed the guests and outlined the mission of National Council of Asian Indian Associations and how it impacted lives especially in recent times contributing towards the goal of eradication of the pandemic.

Hon. Melissa Conyears-Ervin, City Treasurer in her remarks reiterated the central premise of Diwali that symbolizes victory of good over evil and triumph of light over darkness. Hon. Melissa Conyears-Ervin said Diwali represents the beautiful colors of life and thanked NCAIA for facilitating the celebrations with her office. Hon. Melissa Conyears-Ervin articulated the message from Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot who sent her greetings of Diwali to the Indian American community.

Chicago’s 17th ward Alderman David Moore joined the celebrations, expressed his warm greetings to the Indian Americans and said Diwali is truly a wholesome festival to rejoice and celebrate with fellow Chicagoans. Consul Laxman Prasad Gupta from the Indian Consulate in his brief remarks said Indian American community is well integrated into the cultural fabric of this country and have excelled in several fields and conveyed Diwali best wishes.

Dr. Suresh Reddy, Oakbrook Trustee & NCAIA’s Executive Vice President who served as emcee described it as a historic celebration at City Hall and said Diwali is now a widely recognized and celebrated festival in the United States across all spectrum of South Asians.

Event Convener Ajeet Singh, NCAIA Vice President earlier introducing the City Treasurer Melissa Ervin described her as an exceptional custodian of the City Treasury who effectively and efficiently presides over the $ 9.5 billion to ensure taxpayers get the optimum leverage to help Chicago communities grow at the same economic rate regardless of the neighborhoods.

Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, NCAIA Secretary led the event with brief opening remarks and graciously thanked the City Treasurer for hosting a grand festive celebration that commemorates the triumph of goodness, light and knowledge. 

Following, Ms. Madhura Sane presented a spellbinding dance performance symbolizing the enduring spirit of Diwali that elicited sustained applause. Neelam Dwivedi Singh, NCAIA Chairwoman extended Diwali greetings and added that the lights of diyas illuminate life with knowledge, compassion, care and love for each other. Iftekhar Shareef of NCAIA’s Advisory Council said this Diwali represents an outstanding example of interfaith unity and harmony. Nafees Rehman, Deputy Director for IL Secretary of State also conveyed Diwali wishes. Other prominent guests who participated in the event include Mitesh Kamdar, Dr. Shekar Misra, Dr. Harjinder Khaira, Harendra Mangrola, Dr. Vidyani S, Vinita Gulabani, Jigar Shah, Nick Verma, Satish Dadepogu, Ravi Harsoor, Chandini Duvuri, Subu Iyer, Nag Jaiswal, Alli Dhanraj & Tanuja Misra. Mr. Craig Slack – Chief Investment Officer & Deputy Treasurer James Ramos also joined the festivities and extended warm Diwali greetings.

This year Diwali at Times Square was celebrated with a raging come-back after 2 years COVID-19 Lockdown. Thousands of people participated as the brightest celebration unfolded in the brightest city on earth – New York! The event was extremely successful and was attended by some of the highest-ranking Government officials and dignitaries in the business world. This Event was Conceptualized by Event Guru and managed by ASB Communications.

The President of EventGuru Inc. Neeta Bhasin said ‘We are sharing the message of Deepavali – Knowledge over Ignorance, Light over Darkness, Peace, Love, Unity and Togetherness and inclusion in diversity to the World from the biggest crossroads of the world, Times Square. Even the universe responded in appreciation by keeping the weather conducive to the event despite forecasts of rain throughout the day.’

The event was hosted by Aryan Vaid, Mister International Award winner, Vidhi Dave, Mrs. India USA, Esha Kode, Miss Teen India Worldwide. The celebrations began with a traditional Diya (lamp) Lighting ceremony at Times Square. Usually this was done by Mrs. Brijbala Suri, mother of the producer, Neeta Bhasin. But due to her passing, this responsibility was undertaken by her son Gajendra Suri and family. The Diya Lighting Event was followed by dazzling performances by Darshana Menon, the Sa Re Ga Ma 2009 winner, Arya Dance Academy, Sadhanalya Dance Academy and Masala Bhangra.

The Light up Times Square Concert started at 5 PM and was made more luminous by the fact that the Diwali Countdown on Ball Drop Screen created History at Times Square. The sparkle was even greater due to the elite guests who graced the stage with their presence. This whole segment was broadcast live on TV Asia across the USA and worldwide through the Neeta Bhasin Show on YouTube.

This was followed by the dignitaries speaking on the Times Square stage which included some of the most affluent people of New York. List of speakers included Consulate General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, New York State Governor Kathleen Courtney Hochul U.S. Senator Charles Ellis “Chuck” Schumer, U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), NY State Senator John Liu, Gajendra Suri and Beena Kothari from Samman for All , ShopRite’s Ranjana Choudhry, Thomas Rajan from American Airlines, Harry Singh Bolla of Bolla Oil Corp, Padma Shri Mr. H R Shah – Chairman of TV Asia and other sponsors of the festival.

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi sent his Diwali message ‘Heartiest greetings and best wishes for the celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights organized at Times Square in New York. The celebration will help spread our rich traditions and culture in different parts of the world. Carrying the eternal message of victory of light over darkness and truth over untruth may this auspicious occasion further spread peace, happiness, and prosperity in the lives of every member of the Indian diaspora in the USA.’

Consul General of India, NY, Randhir Jaiswal addressed the attendees by saying that ‘It is a time when we must respect the foundational values of our society, kindness, compassion, sharing and being together and may you bring all these values today and tomorrow and forever. Let the light of Diwali shine in your lives and all those around you.’

New York State Governor – Kathleen Hochul Congratulated the founder of Diwali at Times Square, Neeta Bhasin, for having a vision to celebrate the diversity and the wonderful tradition in Times Square and said ‘Diwali at Times is a fabulous event to celebrate the New Year and to celebrate the comeback of New York. This is Phenomenally special; we are once again gathered in person to remind ourselves the real true meaning behind Diwali.

Think about the fact that we can conquer the darkness with light and we did that with Pandemic. Congresswoman Rep. Carolyn Maloney said that ‘I have been coming to this festival ever since we got the Diwali stamp approved which I worked on with many of you for many years to make it happen. The Diwali stamp has been so successful that I think we should have a Diwali Holiday. So, I am introducing a bill for that. Let me get back to work so I can make all these wonderful things happen’.

Senator Chuck Schumer ‘I believe in immigration in general. My middle name is actually Ellis, it is Charles ‘Ellis’ Schumer from Ellis Island. Immigrants have great American values while still remembering the traditions and bringing them to America from their home countries. One of the best and the greatest immigrant communities is our Indian American community, our South Asian Community. We must welcome more Indians to come to America and New York. Because there are more Indians in New York, the greater NY will be’.

NY State Senator, John Liu was very excited to see the huge crowd at Times Square ‘It is great to see everybody in person. No better place to celebrate Diwali than the crossroads of the world right here in Times Square, NY City. With Neeta’s advocacy and esteem journalism and many others, in NYC a long time ago we were able to make a parking holiday, you do not change the car from one side of the street to another’.

Diwali at Times Square was celebrated in association with Samman for All, it’s mission is to facilitate people from the lower-economic strata to achieve their dreams by providing them with tools for sustainable living and empowerment, said the Director of the organization. ShopRite’s Ranjana Choudhry VP Advertising and Social Media ‘We are very proud and very honored to be the Title Sponsor of this event. Let’s turn this festival of lights into the festival of delights. Let’s eat and celebrate Diwali.’

Thomas Rajan- VP, Global Talent American Airlines ‘ In the coming few days, we will be launching our non-stop service from this great city of NY to Delhi and onwards later this year Seattle to Bangalore. Harry Singh Bolla Chairman of Bolla Corporation- ‘We created history in 2013 by representing the 2nd largest festival outside of India. It makes me proud, today we are sitting in Times Square celebrating our culture, our feelings and telling the world what we are all about’.

Some of the front-line fighters in the covid battle like Officer Manish Sharma – President of Indian Police Society (NYPD), Dr. Samin K. Sharma of Mount Sinai Heart, Dr. Jagmohan Kalra and Dr. Sunjit Jaspal from Northwell Health. were honored on stage. The festival did not end there. Yet another set of superb performances by famous artists like Sparsh Shah, Sway Bhatia, Chosen Crew Entertainment Group, Swarali Dance, Jikaria Sisters (Omi, Rish, & Aash), DJ Ash and finally ended with a blast with an amazing performance by International Artist Jay Sean.

More than 250 mainstream media houses are already talking about Diwali at Times Square and the entire event reached out to millions of viewers across both digital and traditional channels in both writing and video publishing formats. Event Guru WorldWide, the organizer of Diwali at Times Square, is a premier full-service event company specializing in festivals, concerts, trade shows, gala dinners and press conferences. We conceptualize and implement events of all sizes and statues.

Diwali is the celebration of light over darkness, good over evil, and more than 1 billion Hindus worldwide are observing it Thursday by lighting candles, setting off fireworks and exchanging gifts with friends and family.

While most people may refer to the holiday as Diwali, it’s traditionally called Deepavali and that is how it’s known in most parts of India.

This year for the first time, the World Trade Center has been lit with a digital mural in celebration of the holiday, organized by the South Asian Engagement Foundation, along with a livestreamed fireworks show on the Hudson River on Nov 2, 2021, at 6 pm and continued until Nov. 4, 2 am.

Dubbed the All-American Diwali experience, it also included a spectacular fireworks display that was viewed by audiences on both sides of the Hudson!, a press release from South Asian Engagement Foundation said.

“We are excited to create and curate the colorful imagery of Diwali on the WTC podium to bring the messages of peace, harmony, and unity,” said Mark Domino of the Durst Organization.

For the first time ever, Diwali-themed animation adorned One World Trade Center where the animation went live on Nov 2, 2021, at 6pm and continued until Nov. 4, 2 am. Photo: South Asian Engagement Foundation.

“There is no better symbol of the triumph of resiliency than the World Trade Center and we are very fortunate to work with The Durst Organization to bring this message to all,” said Rahul Walia, founding trustee of SAEF.

Organized by SAEF, a New Jersey-based non-profit, the All-American Diwali experience was dedicated to the Country’s first responders. The NYPD conducted a ceremonial Color Guard with One World Trade Center as the backdrop. American Singer/Actress Mary Millben performed the US national anthem and a verse from the popular Diwali hymn-Om Jai Jagdish Hare.

“We’re so honored that the first annual All-American Diwali is dedicated to the police officers of New York City. As a police officer of Indian origin, I’m particularly excited to see the One World Trade Center light up for this festival, a symbol of our city’s enduring spirit,” said Det. Annand Narayan, president of NYPD Desi.

Key benefactors of the ‘All American Diwali’ celebration include crypto exchange, CrossTower and Atlanta based 27th Investments, a national investment firm.

Indiaspora served as community patron and supporters include EQ Factor, Touchdown Media and Kawan Foods. Indian-American artist Varun Patel of Vichaar & Prem provided inspiration for the animation.

“Diwali is a time that celebrates family and universal compassion, and we are grateful to be sharing the values of solidarity and peace with the greater New York Community,” Kapil Rathi, CEO and Co-Founder of CrossTower, is quoted saying in the press release.

“All American Diwali embodies the spirit of not only the sentiment behind the festival but also integrates itself into the fabric of Americana. 27th Investments is proud to support this experience,” says Anil Damani, CEO 27th Investments.

The SAEF says it is dedicated to building a strong brand for the Indian-American community “by empowering them and catalyzing the conversation around Indian Americans.”

In the future, it plans to hold a digital mural depicting 75 years of India’s democracy, a National STEM competition, an Indian Edition Smorgasbord and an All-American Holi at Governors Island, NY.

The non-profit SAEF counts among its initiatives, the South Asian Spelling Bee and the Cricket Bee. Its “vision is to continue supporting and organizing educational initiatives and cultural outreach to expand national awareness of the Indian American community.”

Federation  of Indian Associations (FIA) of eight states commemorated Diwali, a major and 75 years of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav by lighting the World famous Empire State Building in the colors of the diya on November 4th.

The  lighting ceremony was graced by Honorable Consul General  Mr. Randhir Jaiswal, Deputy Consul General Dr. Varun Jeph,  popular R&B singer, songwriter and music producer Jay Sean and R&B singer, model and yoga instructor Thara Natalie.

FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya, President Elect Kenny Desai, Past President Alok Kumar and Executive members Parveen Bansal and Saurin Parikh participated in the event as well. In follow up to a spectacular dance performance by the students of Aum Dance Creations the Empire State Building ceremonial lighting was turned on together by Jay Sean, Thara Natalie and Hon. Consul General Jaiswal.  H.E. Randhir Jaiswal conveyed Diwali wishes and thanked the American community for accepting and embracing diversity.

 Vice President Sales of Empire State Building Patricia Niscior wished the community the world over a Happy Diwali and invited them to participate and visit the World famous Empire State Building. FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya and President Elect Kenny Desai also conveyed the Diwali wishes to all the community addressing the media, Jay Sean and Thara conveyed their warm Diwali wishes to the community.

The annual event, which began in 2018, is organized in cooperation with the Empire State Realty Trust. Each year for the past two decades, ESRT and FIA have been lighting up the Empire State Building in August in the colors of the Indian tricolor – orange, white and green – to mark India’s Independence Day.

The FIA believes that such gestures by ESRT help in spreading the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudeva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family) and also demonstrates a great harmony in spirit and deeds between people of the world’s largest and oldest democracies, the organization stated in a press release. Despite the challenges and changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic, FIA has not deterred from its goal of serving the community, it said.

Sikh Religious Society, Palatine Gurdwara organized a four-day celebration to mark the auspicious occasion of Diwali from November 4th to November 7th in Palatine IL. Bhai Inderjit Singh Khalsa came all the way from India to join the celebrations and to be part of the occasion.

The events included deepmala as well as katha and kirtan by Bhai Rajinder Singh and Jatha, Bhai Parminderjit Singh and bhai Inderjit Singh Khalsa.

The daily kirtans were followed by langar seva where hundreds of volunteers of all age groups offered their services by serving hot meals to all the attendees. This year’s Diwali Seva at the Gurdwara was hosted by Savi Singh Attal & Pritpal Dandona family from Chicago.

Over 1,500 people attended the beautiful Diwali celebration at Gurdwara. With Beautiful Diyas & some fireworks for display. The sangat came from all over the Midwest/Interstate of Chicago.

Savi Singh son of Mr. Satwant Singh Attal SRS Palatine Gurdwara (Past President) family have been hosting Langar and doing Seva for Palatine Gurdwara for over thirty-five years and have been a prominent Sikh Family of Chicago migrated from India in the late 1970’s. The entire family has committed to the Sangat for over four decades and plans of continuing the Seva and passing it on to the next generations to come. The family loves and enjoys doing Langars in Gurdwaras. Diwali Celebrations has brought religion & culture together throughout the globe.

Sikh Religious Society, a non-profit organization, in Palatine, Illinois was formed in 1974 and its first formal Prakash Divas (the ceremonial acceptance of Guru GRANTH Sahib {Sikh’s holy scripture/book} at this new place of worship was celebrated in 1975.  The organization focuses on Sikh religious services, Punjabi language/ Kirtan classes. Another focus of this society is on the community service, charity and other Non Profit endeavors to promote the Punjabi culture and heritage.

Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago, one of the oldest organizations in Chicagoland, celebrated its Annual Diwali celebration on October 30th at Ashton Place, Willowbrook, IL.

The celebration started with Lamp Lighting and the Mahalaxmi Aarti followed by a cultural program by kids of all ages. The event also featured a media briefing by the current President Subhash Balani and other board members. Balani explained how the association was formed over 6 decades ago with the aim of creating a platform for the upcoming generations. He talked about the annual activities that the association organizes to celebrate Sindhi Culture.

Another board member Nand Balani elaborated on the initiative called, Alliance of Global Sindhi Association that connects Sindhis all over to the world. The three aims of the alliance focus on matrimonial services, romanized script for sindhi language, and a global sindhi directory.

Geeta Rupani, past president and current executive board member who has been involved with the association for over four decades mentioned how the organization has been working hard to promote Sindhi culture, music, language and history.

Sunder Tekchandani stressed on the importance of involving more and more members, especially the younger generation to take these initiatives forward and to continue spreading awareness about the organization.

Vinita Gulabani, the current executive board member and media coordinator and Vikas Kalwani, past president explained how the outreach is done via emails and social media to involve the young generation. They talked about activities that are organized especially for youth participation like bowling, summer picnics, antakshari.

The event was attended by hundreds of members from Sindhi community that also included President, Village of Oakbrook Dr. Gopal Lalmalani who joined the Diwali celebration along with his family

The Connecticut Chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Light, by supporting local charities in Stamford CT. Diwali is celebrated in India and the Indian Diaspora as a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil. In the spirit of the celebration, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin, Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) invited the community and friends for Diwali Dinner with music and dance at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Stamford, CT, where it donated funds for the local charities.

The charities receiving funds were Future 5 of Stamford (https://futurefive.org/) and the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County Inc. (https://www.foodbanklfc.org/). Together, both organizations received $20,000 from GOPIO-CT. The checks were accepted by Future 5 Founder Clif McFeely and Food Bank’s Executive Director Kathleen Lombardo.

Future 5 helps underprivileged students in the Stamford High School system. Future 5 envisions a world where all students can be part of a vibrant and supportive community and access the people and resources they need for college, career and life success.

Future 5 believes in human potential. In particular, the potential for each and every young person who climbs the stairs to find success in life.

The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County was originated in 1984 as a program of the Council of Churches and Synagogues. Today the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) charity organization serving in the lower Fairfield County’s primary hunger-relief organizations. It provides food to about 90 non-profit agencies and programs that serve low-income people in six town service area through bags of groceries and congregate meals. These include soup kitchens, food pantries, childcare programs, homeless shelters, senior centers, domestic violence safe houses, and rehabilitation programs.

A special guest at the event was Ms. Yelena Klompus, Program Manager for English Language Learning (ELL), Citizenship & Cultural Programs at Stamford’s Public Library known as The Ferguson Library. The library is planning a Diwali program in cooperation with GOPIO-CT on Sunday, November 14^th at 1.30 p.m. Klompus invited everyone to join the program

A music program organized by GOPIO Vice President Dr. Jaya Daptardar followed with singers from Connecticut and included Srini Gunupuru, Devangi Dharani, Div Pithadia, Dipti Haria and Sonali Joshi. GOPIO-CT also announced that it will support one more local charity at a fundraiser at its Holiday Party in December.

“One of the objectives GOPIO is to support local community groups which do service to the larger society and GOPIO chapters have been doing a great job in that direction and GOPIO-CT in particular has been supporting several charities in Connecticut,” Said GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham who is the Founder and currently a Trustee of GOPIO-CT.

Over the last 15 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policy makers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and working with other area organizations to help create a better future. GOPIO-CT – Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic and community service organization – promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs and contributions of PIOs through community programs, forums, events and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities.

New Yorkers got to experience Diwali at the Crossroads of the World, Times Square on Saturday, October 30^th, 2021. Even Covid-19 couldn’t put a damper on one of the biggest celebrations in New York City’s iconic Times Square where Diwali was celebrated with pomp and festivity.

Music and dance with colorful and traditional Indian attire  marked Diwali at Times Square which had a special meaning this year coming as it did after the devastating Covid-19 pandemic that has impacted every aspect of our lives.

The event was attended in-person by several dignitaries, including United States Sen. Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney, India’s Consul General in New York Randhir Jaiswal, New York State Sen. John Liu, Padma Shri Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold, H.R. Shah of TV Asia, representatives of the Indian Police Officers Society from the New York Police Department, and several other special guests who spoke on stage about the meaning of Diwali and the joy of celebrating it after Covid.

Dr. Parikh thanked Shoprite and for the ‘great function’ of Diwali that it was supporting, and praised the company for the work it did for the community, and encouraged it to continue the good work. “It is an honor to be here at this historic occasion, when the ball will drop for Diwali jus as it does for New Year, which shows how wonderful and important the Indian-American community is here in New ork and all over America,” said  Sen. Schumer.

Sen. Schumer said he believed in immigration and “immigrants make America great” because they believe in the American Dream and embody American values even as they bring their traditions to this country. He bemoaned a rise in hate crimes and emphasized, “We must shout it down. We must fight it. We must prosecute it, and we must welcome more Indians to come to America and New York, because the more Indians there are in New York, the greater New York will be.”

Consul General Jaiswal wished everyone a Happy Diwali for their loved ones and peace and prosperity for all. “More importantly, it is a time when we must introspect on some of the foundational values of our society – on kindness, compassion, sharing, being unified, being together…”

Congresswoman Maloney wished everyone present and dwelt on the need to recognize Mahatma Gandhi with a Congressional Gold Medal, something for which she has introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives. “Look at this amazing crowd!” exclaimed State Sen. Liu. “We are finally getting out of this long dark tunnel of Covid-19.”

This year in contrast to last year, Liu said, the number of Diwali celebrations has risen, “in our schools, in our mandirs, and City Hall,” he said, a tradition he started when he was a New York City Councilor. “There’s no better place to celebrate Diwali than at the ‘Crossroads of the World’, right here in Times Square, New York City. Because this is such an important holiday for billions of people around the world symbolizing the victory of good over evil, light over darkness …”

A unique digital presentation with a massive lighted billboard changing images symbolic of the Festival of Lights, in an attempt to capture the pomp and festivity of this joyous celebration, captured the hearts and minds of thousands who watched and joined in the celebrationbs from around the world. The event was organized by EventGuru Inc., an event management company in the Tristate area.

Diwali at Times Square has been increasing its audience since its inception in 2013. This New York City Diwali celebration usually draws a big crowd and features a diya (lamp) lighting ceremony accompanied by a New Year’s Eve style countdown featured on the tallest Times Square digital screen, followed by a host of rousing concerts.

Presented by Shoprite and organized by Bhasin, the Times Square Diwali was started by event organizer Neeta Bhasin, president of ASB Communications, a New York-based multicultural marketing and event management company. “After the pandemic, we are here to uplift the spirit of the people. And we want to showcase this vibrant India, and India’s culture, art and diversity to the world,” Bhasin said.

Telugu Association of Greater Chicago, the first ever Telugu association in North America, organized its 50th year anniversary celebrations on a grand scale over 2 days during last weekend. First day was a spectacular Banquet at the Seville Banquets Streamwood followed by Dussehra and Deepavali celebrations at Naperville Community Church, Yellow Box, Naperville.

The event was described as a grand success with an overwhelming response from the Telugu community with 2000+ guests in attendance over 2 days. Multiple guests from Community, National and Local Telugu organizations, long time Sponsors PMSI Ashok Lakshmanan, NYLife Krishna Rangaraju joined along with Chief Guest U.S Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthy, Dr. Sreenivas Reddy, a member of the National council on White House History and Indian Consulate General’s office represented by Consul Gopal Bhagath.

On Banquet day, 2021 President Venkat Gunuganti and 2020 President Praveen Vemulapalli recognized Sponsors and Donors for the past 2 years. Banquet was served with delicious food from Cool Mirchi which included multiple savory and sweet items. Few Past Presidents, long time Sponsors and Members spoke on the occasion and remembered their memories, connections in the last 50 years.

Live Music Concert with well-known singers Manisha Earabathini, Prasad Simhadri, Sarada Akunuri, Srikanth Sandugu, Sruthi Nanduri entertained the audience. Musical band was led by Meher Chanti with his 6 person MLiveBand team.  The musical night rocked and energized guests with continuous nonstop entertainment.

Anchors Kavita Thotakura and Sahitya Vinjamuri kept the whole program lively with their special engagement skills on both days. Event decorations added color to both events and the audience enjoyed the Photo Booths at each location. TAGC Youth volunteers and membership committee welcomed all guests with a smile.

As part of the 50th year celebrations second day “Joruga Husharuga – Dasara and Diwali celebrations”, 250+ participants including kids, youth, couples and senior members of TAGC entertained guests with their performances. Event brought a true festive atmosphere where all the seniors, youth and kids came together under one roof to celebrate the 50-year history of the Telugu community in America and the importance of perseverance.

Food committee Chair, Vijay Beeram with his team & volunteers, did a wonderful job in serving delicious dinner for such a massive crowd in the allocated time. Attendees were appreciative of tasty food. Local Indian restaurant Cool Mirchi management supported TAGC with their best qualitative and quantitative food.

After-dinner program started with past-presidents recognition. 23 presidents with their families joined on the stage. Current President Venkat Gunuganti and President-elect Uma Avadutha with help of BoD’s felicitated all past-presidents on the stage. It was a special moment in TAGC history with so many presidents on the stage.  As part of the program, TAGC President-elect Uma Avadutha introduced new 2022-25 BoD’s along with the 2022 EC team. Venkat Gunuganti accompanied with his wife Haritha recognized past President Praveen Vemulapalli and his wife Kranthi for their services and dedication towards the organization with a flower bouquet, shawl, and a plaque.

TAGC 2020 President Praveen Vemulapalli and Kranthi recognized 2019 President Ram Billakanti and his wife Malathi for their services and dedication towards the organization with a flower bouquet, shawl, and a plaque, as there were restrictions on physical events in 2020. Live Music Concert continued on the 2nd day with well-known singers Manisha Earabathini, Prasad Simhadri, Sarada Akunuri, Srikanth Sandugu and Swaravedika team Sruthi Nanduri, Akhila Mamandur coordinated by Krisha Anumolu. Musical band was led by energetic Meher Chanti with his 6 person MLiveBand team.  The musical night rocked and energized guests in the auditorium with nonstop entertainment for almost 3hours. Anchor Kavita and her daughter Radhika entertained with their special dance.

TAGC president, Venkat Gunuganti, past-president Praveen Vemulapalli along with his whole BoD team presented all singers, Anchors, Music Band team members with flower bouquet, Colorful Shawl and 50th year Plaque. Cultural chair Neelima Cheikycharla also thanked all the participants, their parents, coordinators, teachers and the guests for their enthusiastic show of support throughout the evening.

TAGC President, Venkat Gunuganti, thanked the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, Chairs, Co-Chairs, Technical team, Hospitality team, Food team, Membership team and volunteers who have worked for weeks in planning and preparations to make this event memorable. He also conveyed his gratitude and thanks to sponsors for giving back to the community and requested TAGC members to make use of services provided by sponsors. TAGC is planning to release a special 50th anniversary souvenir with content and inputs from past and current members. It is planned to be released by Ugadi 2022.

TAGC cordially invites everyone who wishes to support and bless TAGC’s efforts to spread and preserve Telugu culture & tradition, and to be part of the upcoming exciting events.

Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) hosted a special Diwali event in the presence of Honorable Indian Ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu and several other dignitaries on October 27^th. The event acknowledged the extraordinary partnership between the governments and private sector organizations of the United States and India to support SRLC’s humanitarian initiatives.

The event was attended by Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthy, Illinois; Tim Ryan, Ohio; Greg Stanton, Arizona; Danny Davis, Illinois; Mike Quigley, Illinois; and, Audrey Kitawaga, Ambassador of Religions for Peace. Ambassador Sandhu emphasized critical points regarding the element of solidarity, the unity and partnership between the two nations, the importance of science and spiritual and extending happiness and kindness to all in these unprecedented times.

The highlight of the event was the launch of the book, ‘Atmasiddhi Shastra – Six Spiritual Truths of the Soul’, a concise and complete commentary by Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji. This book lays a clear and cogent path to self-discovery. The book commemorates the 125 th anniversary of the creation of Shrimad Rajchandraji’s magnum opus, ‘Atmasiddhi Shastra’ – a 142-verse epic spiritual masterpiece.

According to the organizers, it was an iconic moment to be at the Capitol Hill and celebrate Diwali by launching a book which “represents the true spirit of Diwali as it removes the darkness of ignorance by the light of knowledge.”

“The endeavor of Shri Rakeshji to present the essence of Atmasiddhi Shastra in a lucid manner through its commentary in English is a thoughtful gesture, aimed at the spiritual welfare of the youth” – Shri Narendra Modi, Hon. Prime Minister of India stated in a statement.  “Atmasiddhi Shastra is a practical guide to Liberation and freedom from suffering” – Deepak Chopra, Founder – The Chopra Foundation said.

SRLC is a global initiative to offer service and bring joy to the lives of the underserved sections of society. SRLC is inspired by Shrimad Rajchandraji, philosopher, and the spiritual guide of Mahatma Gandhiji. SRLC is founded by Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, a world-renowned spiritual leader. SRLC enjoys Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic & Social Council since 2020. SRLC’s holistic, multi-pronged community support and development programs are powered by genuine empathy, love, and care of highly motivated volunteers. Learn more about SRLC’s humanitarian work: https://srlc-usa.org/

The whirling dancers, clapping hands, distinct sound of wooden sticks struck together, toe tapping music and people wearing colorful clothes marked the Navratri celebration at the Garba & Dandiya Raas dances held all over Chicagoland. The Aarush Entertainment celebrated dandiya night to celebrate the festival season with one thousand plus community members at Oswego East High School, Oswego, IL.

The event was organized by Manoj Rathod and Tanmay Patel featured two very well-known versatile vocalists Badal Parmar and Bharti Desai who kept the atmosphere upbeat and devotional and had everyone dancing throughout the entire event. Badal Parmar performed traditional Kathiawadi style garba as well as popular Hindi songs. His style of performance reflects an immense amount of Gujarati garba as well as modern beats. This unique style of singing is what makes him such a versatile performer. Garba Queen of United State of America Desai who is an award-winning singer in Chicago enthralled the audience with her charming personality. She continued amazing Garbas in Two Taali. In Raas everybody enjoyed Disco Dandia, Sanedo, Amu Kaka Bapa Na, Bhai-Bhai, Hitch..

There were   participants   of   all   ages of men and women   of   about   1000+   people, enjoying and celebrating the festivities. Many in the audience, especially ladies of all ages   wore colorful   and traditional   dresses   for   this   special   occasion   with matching ornaments.

“Navaratri Garba is very special as it honors Shakti in very rhythmic ways.  We all love the whole atmosphere of colors, the clothes and of course, the music and then there is always the fun of dressing traditionally. Western dresses are replaced by Lengha-Choli, matching jewelry and foot wear”, said one of the participants.  The evening was followed by traditional garba music and concluded in the wee hours of morning highlighted by devotional Arti of Mataji.

The Aarush Entertainment company offers event planning & management services that also includes wedding designing, planning, management & consultancy, adopting a comprehensive approach & professional management information system to plan and produce a world class event experience each & every time all over the world. The highly skilled team of professionals at Aarush Entertainment strives hard to accomplish the highest standard of quality, effectiveness & novelty with due importance to the budgetary considerations.

The Bengali Association of Greater Chicago (BAGC) concluded its three-day Durga Puja Mahotsav on October 10th,2021. The celebrations started on October 8th and continued for three days that included Puja, Arati and Pushpanjali. BAGC is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting literature, art, music, and the rich religious and cultural heritage of the South Asian Indian community for the past 44 years.

In addition to three days of Puja and all its special features, they also had an array of cultural programs with some legendary artists from both the USA as well as from India. Last two years, BAGC through its strong tech committee has continued connecting with the community virtually due to the challenges posed by Covid-19 Pandemic through BAGC Live YouTube channel and BAGC Radio in showcasing its virtual events to the entire community across the globe.

This whole Celebration is all about Durga Maata Puja is done by Shree Rama (Akal Bodhan) before going to war with King Ravana. Normal 9 Days of Puja and Nava Ratri ends with Dusserah whan King Ravan was killed. BAGC Celebrated the 6th day till the 10th Day of Puja and ending with Ravan Dahan. BAGC Executive Committee of 2021 with all the Volunteers made this Large event most successful even under this Covid Pandemic.

Durga Puja is celebrated during Navaratri to honor goddess Durga culminating into Bijoya Dashami also known as Vijaya Dashami or Dusshera in other parts of India. Mahashasti was celebrated on Friday, October 8th with Puja, Pushpanjali in the Evening and cultural performances by local and external talents, which includes like curtain raiser (Jalo Pradeep Jalo), Musical Comedy Show (Kichu Haasi Kichu Gaan) and performance by a Chicago based band DhoomK2.

Mahasaptami and Mahashtami celebrated on Saturday, October 9th included morning and evening prayers along with a BAGC Youth Production on Environment Awareness (Sabuj Prithvi) in the evening followed by a musical retrospective to legendary Bengali Music Directors and a musical performance by Debarpan Dhar with his melodious voice. Mahanabami and Dashami, celebrated on Sunday,10th October, which is the conclusion day of the Puja Ceremony includes beautiful Bisharjon, Sindhur Khela and Dhanuchi Nach during the day and cultural program in the evening. The cultural program in the evening included drama “Tritiyo Nayan” by Chicago Natya Goshthi (CNG) and fusion dance “Rhythm of Fire ”.

BAGC President Jayanta Mukherjee along with the entire BAGC committee teams, and volunteers worked days and nights for the super successful Durga 2021 Puja celebration. The current committee led by Jayanta Mukherjee has been around for the last two years and working towards creating an all-inclusive participation from other communities as well as ethnicities. The three-day event also included two grand concerts at Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin, Il with two celebrity vocalists and their teams. All three days had booth for free mandatory covid testing provided by Amita Labs and every attendee followed a mask mandate for all indoor events.

During the first concert, the fusion queen Vidya Vox along with Shankar Tucker and other team members created the musical magic with her refreshingly unique and contemporary voice. Vidya the gen z sensation who has over 7 million you tube subscribers and close to a billion views sang in a variety of languages including Rongobati her first Bengali song and kept the audience dancing during the entire show.

The master of the ceremony for the concert was Prachi Jaitly. The second show had a team of vocalists from India led by Music Legend Music Director Jatin Pandit. Jatin Pandit was accompanied by his son Raahul Jatin and other artists like Nauzad, Malancha, and Sonia Keshwani who also graced the event being the emcee. The team enthralled the audience with all the hit numbers of Bollywood. The auditorium was packed during both the concerts.

Jayanta Mukherjee, addressed the audience during the concert and briefed everyone about the BAGC and its initiatives. The executive committees received huge appreciation from everyone for working tirelessly for the last two years to keep the BAGC activities going amidst all the challenges. He also assured of his continuous contribution to the association in the upcoming years as well. Kudos to the Cultural Committee who proved once again that whatever be the adversities the show must not only go on but with the best performers in the world addressing the diverse demography of BAGC. The success of the event was also made possible by the generous sponsors and patrons. Media partners of the entire event were Asian Media USA and Asian Media Broadcasting.