News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (November 29, 2025 - December 5, 2025) December 5, 2025 8 Community Akshaya Patra Hosts 2025 Indiana Fundraiser In Merrillville, Indiana T he 2025 Akshaya Patra Indiana Chapter, hosted a musical fundraiser at the Indian American Cultur- al Center in Merrillville November 15, 2025, that brought together a large gathering of like-minded supporters, all united by a shared commitment to end classroom hunger for children in India. The funds raised are expected to make a significant difference in the lives of thousands of children, ensuring they receive the nutritious meals they need to stay in school and build brighter futures. National Award-winning music composer Bishakh Jyoti, gave a soulful and energetic performance that elic- ited an enthusiastic response from the audience, which also got to enjoy a delicious dinner. Chapter Chairs Dr. Saket Sinha and Dr. Ravi Bhagwat, along with executive teammembers Soumita and Subir Bandyopadhyay, Dr. Shailesh Bhatt, Dr. Vijay Dharla, Darshana & Niru Patel and Chandan Rai, extended their heartfelt gratitude to all guests, donors, and volunteers for their unwavering support. A significant highlight of the night was the keynote ad- dress by entrepreneur and philanthropist Rajiv Khanna, whose inspiring words encouraged many to deepen their commitment to the cause. His message of compassion and collective responsibility resonated strongly with the audience. The attendees also had the opportunity to hear from Akshaya Patra USA CEO Navin Goel, who shared mean- ingful insights about the impact the organization has made over the years. He also outlined the vision and plans for the upcoming years, reinforcing the impor- tance of continued community support in driving lasting change. As the chapter reflected on the success of the event, the Akshaya Patra Indiana Chapter Team expressed excitement and optimism for 2026, looking forward to another impactful year of service and community en- gagement. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:AKSHAYA PATRA Organizers and special guests as well as attendees enjoying the Akshaya Patra 2025 Fundraiser held in Merrillville, Indiana November 15, 2025. Arts & Culture Bridging The Gap: India–Pakistan Poets Share The Stage At Payam-e-Muhabbat International Mushaira T he spirit of Urdu, friendship, and cross-cultural harmony illumi- nated the halls of Marriott Saddle Brook on Sunday, November 23, 2025, as the Payam-e-Muhabbat Interna- tional Mushaira captivated poetry lovers from across the Tri-State area. Organized by Mohibban-e-Urdu of North America, the Cultural Society of Bergen County, and Jhilmil, the evening brought together renowned poets from India and Pakistan, celebrating the shared literary heritage that continues to unite both nations. The Mushaira featured an impres- sive lineup of distinguished poets whose eloquence and artistry kept the audience fully engaged throughout the evening. The stellar roster included Basir Kazmi, Abbas Tabish, Mehshar Afridi, Humaira Rehman, Madan Mohan Danish, Khalid Irfan, Naina Aadil, and Ammar Iqbal. Each poet presented their kalaam with depth, emotion, and signature style, drawing ap- plause and admiration from attendees. Chairman Khaja Khateeb (Tamkeen) addressing the audience with heartfelt words, reflecting on the spirit of Urdu and the message of Mohabbat that brought the Mushaira to life. Photo: Organizers The event was anchored by the tire- less efforts of Khaja Khateeb (Tamkeen), Chairman of Mohibban-e-Urdu, who was instrumental in conceptualizing and bringing this international literary gather- ing to life. Mohibban-e-Urdu—formed in 2011—has consistently worked to pro- mote the Urdu language, literature, and culture across North America. He was joined in leadership by: Mauz- zam Khan, President, Khurrum Iftekhar, Treasurer In association with Jhilmil, the organiz- ing team also included cultural contribu- tors and community enthusiasts: Anoop Bhargava, Nandini Rai, Atul Arora, Satish Mallick From the Cultural Society of Bergen County, key supporters included: Farhat Khan, Ghazala Chohan, Ghazala Arshad, Nadia Khan. Their combined efforts ensured a seamless program that balanced literary excellence with warm hospitality. Dinner was served, adding to the delight of a fully immersive cultural evening. Audience members praised the event for not only showcasing top-tier Urdu poetry but also for highlighting the power of artistic expression in promoting peace, love, and understanding. With poets from India and Pakistan sharing the same stage, Payam-e-Muhabbat truly lived up to its name — a message of love. The resounding success of the Mush- aira has reinforced Mohibban-e-Urdu’s continued mission to elevate Urdu adab while bringing communities together through poetry and cultural exchange. By Ilayas Quraish PHOTO: ITV GOLD PHOTO:ORGANIZERS PHOTO:ORGANIZERS A powerful moment of adab and unity – poets from India and Pakistan share the stage as the Mushaira President presents his kalaam at the Payam-e-Muhabbat International Mushaira in Saddle Brook, NJ. Chairman Khaja Khateeb (Tamkeen) addressing the audience with heartfelt words, reflecting on the spirit of Urdu and the message of Mohabbat that brought the Mushaira to life.