New York City, NY, USA: Bruhud New York Seniors brought together more than 700 community members in Queens for a vibrant Diwali celebration featuring cultural programs, community announcements, and honours for notable contributors.
The organisation, a socio-cultural nonprofit active across the New York City region since 2009, held its annual Diwali gathering on November 8 at the Hindu Community Centre in Queens. Attendees from various parts of the tri-state area participated in the event, which highlighted cultural heritage, community outreach efforts, and diaspora involvement.
The evening opened with a festive dinner, creating an atmosphere of togetherness among members and guests. Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan attended as the chief guest, accompanied by Jaipur Foot USA chairman Prem Bhandari, who led the proceedings, and Deputy Consul General Vishal J. Harsh.
During the program, Bruhud president Ajay S. Patel provided updates on the organisation’s ongoing humanitarian initiatives. He spoke about the success of a free prosthetic limb distribution camp held in Mahudi, Gujarat, in January 2025, where over 500 beneficiaries received artificial limbs. Additional mobility support items—such as wheelchairs, tricycles, callipers, and hearing aids—were distributed with assistance from Jaipur Foot.
Consul General Pradhan highlighted the recent establishment of new Indian community centres in Edison, Columbus, and Boston to enhance services for Indian-origin residents. He also noted that the Consulate, partnering with Team Aid, now provides complimentary assistance for the repatriation of mortal remains of Indian passport holders.
Bhandari spoke about the nationwide observance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary and pointed to India’s economic progress, noting its rise from the world’s tenth-largest economy in 2014 to the fourth-largest today.
Three community members were honoured for their contributions: Ashok Sancheti, president of Pioneer Gems LLC; NYPD Captain Pratima B. Maldonado, the first South Asian woman to achieve that rank; and Atit J. Thakore from the Patel Brothers Group.
The celebration featured musical performances by Swar Sarita and Indian Idol singer Khuda Baksh, keeping the audience engaged late into the night. The event wrapped up with gratitude gifts for guests, ending the evening on a warm and celebratory note.
