News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (November 1, 2025 - November 7, 2025) November 7, 2025 10 Community Foundation Of Indian Americans-New England Makes Generous Donation To Food Pantry T he donation event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, who praised FIA New England and the Indian-American community for their dedication to supporting local families and addressing food insecurity — especially during the ongoing government shutdown, when many were concerned about SNAP program funding. Representing the Newton Food Pantry, Sean (no last name given) from the pantry administration accepted the donation and emphasized its significant impact on local residents in need, the press release from FIA-NE said. The ceremony was also attended by several special guests and community leaders, including UIANE Past President Dr. Neela Gandhi, UIANE President Aanch Jain, Dr. Chander Kapasi, Businessman Vijay Salhi, FIA Board of Directors Mem- ber Jyoti Singh, Saheli Vice President Aditi Soni, Rakesh Soni, Ravi and Sudha Sarin, Jitendra Sharma, Dolly, and Anita Khetar- pal. “Their presence underscored the spirit of unity and collaboration that thrives within the Indian-American community,” FIA-NE said in the press release. The FIA-NE executive which made this initiative possible includes FIAVice Presidents Rakesh & Deepti Kavsari, Amol Penshanwar, Santosh Thawani, Hiten Bhawsar, Mohan Krishna Sonti, Devesh Singh Raghwanshi, and Rakesh Soni, who played vital roles in organizing, collecting, and delivering the donations. The food drive was organized in con- junction with UIANE’s Diwali Celebration. “We are immensely proud of our volun- teers and supporters,” said FIA President Abhishek Singh. “Their selfless dedica- tion — spending weekdays and weekends collecting, loading, and delivering food — truly reflects the spirit of service and compassion that defines our community.” Singh also thanked all donors and well- wishers for their generosity. The organization said it will continue its community outreach efforts and those wishing to support it can do so via Zelle or Venmo at 612-877-2703. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:FIA-NewEngland Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller and children lead ribbon-cutting ceremony for Newton Food Pantry, October 26, 2025. Food donations collected for the Newton Food Pantry by the Indian American Foundation-New England. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham In Robbinsville, NJ Celebrates 9 Days Of Diwali F rom October 18 to October 26, 2025, BAPS Swami- narayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, celebrated Diwali under this year’s special theme: Unity, “reminding all that when individuals and families come together, they strengthen not only their bonds but also the fabric of the wider community.” Organizers estimated thousands of devotees, well- wishers, and visitors from across the tri-state area came to the campus during that period of celebrations. Local dignitaries and public officials fromMercer County and beyond joined the gathering. The celebration began with a maha aarti — a collec- tive offering of light and devotion, followed by one of the many highlights of the celebrations – an impressive and colorful fireworks display. Volunteers put in weeks of effort to decorate the grounds and the mandir with intricate rangoli designs, and displays of light. A central feature was the ‘Annakut,’ or “mountain of food,” in which hundreds of vegetarian dishes prepared by devotees of all ages were beautifully arranged and of- fered to the Divine. “Working with so many dedicated volunteers to prepare for Diwali showed me how service can bring us closer together as a family and community,” said Ami Shah. Beyond the rituals, the celebration engaged families and guests of all ages with activities such as fireworks, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that con- veyed the meaning of Diwali and connected attendees across generations. “Experiencing Diwali at the BAPS Swaminarayan Ak- shardham, Robbinsville, NJ filled me with joy,” said Rama Joshi, who came from India. “The lights, the Annakut, and the sense of community remind me of the traditions I grew up with, while also creating new memories with my family here.” Hari Patel shared, “Diwali at Akshardham is more than a festival — it’s an experience of coming together. In a world where differences often divide, our goal this year was to remind everyone that unity is our greatest strength and the light that dispels all darkness.” His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj shared his Diwali blessings, encouraging all to let the light of unity shine in their lives: “Our prayerful blessings that Bhagwan Swaminarayan may keep you all happy in body, mind and means; that you all may keep peace in your hearts; that unity increases in your family; faith and devotion towards Bhagwan grow; and that the strength to follow the commandments of Satsang is obtained.” BAPS mandirs across North America joined in hosting Diwali celebrations. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham at Robbinsville, NJ, is a nexus of Hindu architecture, culture, unity, selfless service, and a way to bridge India’s heritage with modern America, the organization said in its press release. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:BAPS PHOTOS:Vinod Chadha Fireworks display at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbins- ville, NJ, during 9 days of Diwali celebrations October 18 to 26, 2025. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Diwali celebrations in Robbinsville, NJ emphasized the theme of “Unity.”