Bharat Beyond Borders gala / FIA
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and New England concluded its annual India Day weekend celebrations with the grand “Bharat Beyond Borders 2.0” Gala at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street on Aug. 16.
The gathering brought together diplomats, elected officials, celebrities, corporate sponsors and community leaders to honor India’s 80th Independence Day alongside the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from the master of ceremonies and formal recognition of founding sponsors, including the Consulate General of India, the Bansal Foundation and the State Bank of India.
Guests were treated to an instrumental performance of Indian raga Kirwani alongside the U.S. and Indian national anthems, performed by the Heritage Arts Academy, followed by an instrumental medley.
Official video greetings were presented from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, the consul general and deputy consul general of India, Member of Parliament Harsh Vardhan, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
Bharat Beyond Borders / FIA
Bharat Beyond Borders gala / FIAThe gala featured addresses by FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya and FIA President Sreekanth Akkapalli, along with remarks from the consul general of Israel, Gaurav Vashist, and representatives from Hard Rock.
The gala’s diverse cultural showcase featured Broadway-style performances, an unplugged musical rendition of “Gokul Dham Unplugged” by Priti Patel, a youth musical ensemble, an energetic live mariachi band and a best-dressed contest.
Star power added to the evening’s grandeur with appearances by leading public figures and celebrities, including Pooja Hegde, who participated in an exclusive fireside chat, alongside Adivi Sesh, Avinash Tiwary and the popular cast of “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.” All featured artists and distinguished guests were formally felicitated by FIA leadership.
The celebration concluded with the presentation of an official proclamation by Dilip Chauhan from the New York City Mayor’s Office, followed by speeches from Rohit Korat and Manan. Srishti Kaul Narula delivered the final vote of thanks, bringing the event to a close.
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