News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (September 27, 2025 - October 3, 2025) October 3, 2025 16 Community Indian Americans Celebrate PM Narendra Modi’s Birthday And Honor Visiting Lok Sabha Member Parshottam Rupala I ndian American community leaders gathered on September 22, 2025, in New Jersey to honor Parshottam Rupala, Indian Member of Parlia- ment and former Union Minister. Some 300 distinguished members of the diaspora attended. Rupala, revered as the “Lion of Saurashtra” for his three decades of unwavering public service, delivered a compelling address that resonated deeply with attendees, a press release from organizers said. “You embody the spirit of modern India,” Rupala said. “Your achievements on American soil reflect the limitless potential of our motherland and strengthen the ties that bind our nations together.” Ankur Vaidya, chairman of the Fed- eration of Indian Associations (FIA) NY- NJ-CT-NE), offered passionate remarks in Gujarati, honoring Rupala’s dedication to Gujarat and India. Vaidya’s address highlighted how the Modi government’s visionary diaspora policies have revo- lutionized India’s relationship with its overseas communities, creating unprec- edented opportunities for collaboration. Past President of FIA Kenny Desai, delivered an emotionally charged tribute, recounting Rupala’s journey from his early inspiration during the “Jan Seva Yatra” at age 13 to his current parliamen- tary role. Desai quoted from Zaverchand Meghani’s poetic wisdom: relentless progress “one step ahead, beyond the chest of the sea,” symbolizing unwaver- ing commitment to national service, as a reflection of Rupala’s vision. Chairman of TV Asia Dr. H.R. Shah, brought historical perspective, tracing Gujarat’s legacy of producing national leaders. He connected Gujarat’s contribu- tion to India’s freedom struggle with its continued leadership in the modern era, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s transformative tenure as an example. Piyush Patel emphasized how under Modi’s leadership, Gujarat has achieved the distinction of being India’s number one state. He praised Rupala’s 34 years of service, highlighting his unwavering commitment as a “pure BJP man” who has consistently served party and nation with distinction, the press release said. FIA President Saurin Parikh echoed the testimonials, reinforcing the com- munity’s unified support for India’s parliamentary leadership. FIA Convenor Sreekanth Akkapalli welcomed attendees in this Navratri season, emphasizing how the community’s presence transformed the reception into a genuine homecom- ing. Past President of FIA, Dr. Avinash Gup- ta, represented the Shree Siddhivinayak Temple USA and multiple community or- ganizations, bringing scholarly perspec- tive and emphasizing the importance of preserving the Indian American narrative for future generations. Abhesinh Rathod’s gave a stirring rendition of the beloved Gujarati song “Mor Bani Thangat Kare,” which speaks to cultural pride of the diaspora audience present at the gathering. The reception was organized by FIA-NY NJ CT NE in collaboration with prominent organizations including Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, GANA, BJANA, TV9 USA, TV Asia, ParikhWorldwide Media, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple USA, UPFNA, FISANA, World Vegan Vision, Sai Datta Peetham and SPCS. It embodied the living relationship between India and its diaspora – a community excelling in their adopted homeland while remain- ing deeply rooted in cultural heritage, organizers said. The highlight came with the presenta- tion of a special proclamation to Rupala, acknowledging his tireless service and role in strengthening India-diaspora relations. The event reinforced that the Indian American community continues serving as cultural ambassadors, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the world’s two largest democracies, organizers said. By a StaffWriter PHOTO:Courtesyorganizers PHOTOS:Courtesyorganizers Distinguished community leaders and attendees gathered at the reception honoring Indian Parliamentarian Parshottam Rupala and celebrating PM Modi’s milestone birthday. Group photo of dignitaries and community leaders with Parshottam Rupala at the conclusion of the Community Reception. Indain Member of Parliament Parshottam Rupala delivering keynote address to the Indian American diaspora celebrating PM Modi’s 75th birthday. Presentation of special proclamation to Indian Lok Sabha member Parshottam Rupala by Indian American community leaders, acknowledging his tireless service in strengthening India-diaspora. Others in photo include, from left, Ankur Vaidya, Kenny Desai, (Rupala), and Saurin Parikh. Special birthday cake celebrating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, presented during the community reception in Edison, New Jersey.