New York City has declared August 6, 2025, as “Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) Day” to honor the cultural and civic contributions of the Rajasthani-American community.
In a historic move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams officially designated August 6, 2025, as “Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) Day” in recognition of the significant contributions made by the Rajasthani-American community to the city’s cultural and civic life. The announcement was part of RANA’s Silver Jubilee celebration and was made during a landmark ceremony at New York City Hall.
The proclamation was presented by Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan of the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs on behalf of Mayor Adams. Addressing the attendees, Chauhan stated, “It’s an honor to be with you as we mark a truly historic occasion — the 25th anniversary of the Rajasthan Association of North America. On behalf of Mayor Adams and the City of New York, I’m proud to announce that August 6, 2025, is officially proclaimed ‘Rajasthan Association of North America Day’ in New York City — a day celebrated not just by the Rajasthani community but by all 8.5 million New Yorkers.”
Over the past 25 years, RANA has played a pivotal role in cultural preservation and community service, significantly enhancing the ties between New York and the global Rajasthani community. Chauhan added, “Thank you to the President, Past Presidents, the Board, patrons, and every member of RANA for your incredible contributions. Congratulations on this milestone — and Happy RANA Day.”
The event attracted a diverse group of attendees, including elected officials, diplomats, community leaders, and dignitaries from across the United States, all gathered to honor RANA’s legacy of leadership and service. Despite a demanding schedule, Mayor Eric Adams attended the ceremony in person, highlighting the occasion’s importance. RANA President Prem Bhandari praised the Mayor’s presence as “a token of deep respect not only for over 2 million Rajasthani-origin people across the globe, but also for nearly 100 million residents of Rajasthan and other parts of India.”
Mayor Adams expressed his gratitude to the Rajasthani-American community for their enduring contributions to the city’s diversity and vibrancy, thanking RANA for 25 years of cultural leadership. The proclamation ceremony also included senior officials from the Mayor’s Office, such as Commissioner Aissata Camara from the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs and Pastor Gilford Monrose, Faith Advisor and Executive Director in the Mayor’s Office.